JADAM is an approach to sustainable and natural farming developed by Young-Sang Cho, rooted in the principles of organic agriculture. The term JADAM stands for “people that resemble nature,” emphasizing a low-cost, self-reliant method of farming that promotes environmental sustainability. Here are some key skills and practices involved in JADAM farming:

1. Natural Pesticides and Fungicides

JADAM focuses on using natural ingredients to create effective pesticides and fungicides. This involves:

• JWA (Jadam Wetting Agent): A natural soap made from castor oil and caustic potash, used as a wetting agent in various solutions.
• JHS (Jadam Herbal Solution): A mixture of herbs and other natural ingredients that act as pesticides.
• Sulfur Solution: Used to control fungal diseases and pests.

2. Soil Fertility Management

Improving and maintaining soil health is crucial in JADAM farming:

• Leaf Mold Soil: Collecting and using soil from the forest floor, rich in microorganisms.
• JADAM Microbial Solution (JMS): A microbial culture made from rice, leaf mold, and sea salt that enhances soil fertility and plant health.
• Natural Farming Inputs: Utilizing local resources to create compost and fertilizers.

3. Crop Management

Implementing practices to ensure healthy crop growth:

• Cover Cropping: Growing cover crops to improve soil health and reduce erosion.
• Crop Rotation: Rotating crops to prevent soil depletion and reduce pest and disease cycles.
• Intercropping: Planting different crops together to enhance biodiversity and pest control.

4. Water Management

Efficient use and conservation of water:

• Rainwater Harvesting: Collecting and storing rainwater for irrigation.
• Mulching: Applying organic matter to the soil surface to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and improve soil health.
• Drip Irrigation: Using a drip system to deliver water directly to the plant roots, reducing water wastage.

5. Animal Husbandry

Integrating animals into the farming system for mutual benefits:

• Pasture-Raised Livestock: Raising animals on pasture to enhance soil fertility through natural grazing and manure.
• Integrated Pest Management (IPM): Using animals like ducks or chickens to control pests in crops.

6. Energy Management

Reducing dependency on external energy sources:

• Solar Energy: Utilizing solar panels for electricity needs.
• Biogas: Producing biogas from animal manure and organic waste for cooking and heating.

7. Community and Knowledge Sharing

Building a network of farmers to share knowledge and resources:

• Workshops and Training: Participating in or conducting training sessions to spread JADAM techniques.
• Farmer Groups: Forming groups to collectively solve problems, share tools, and market produce.

By adopting JADAM principles, farmers can create a more sustainable and self-sufficient farming system that respects natural processes and reduces reliance on chemical inputs.

https://en.jadam.kr