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Unit 1: Ecological Concepts and Principles
Introduction
Agroecology Framework
What is an Ecosystem?
Ecological Principles for Ag Systems
Unit 2: Applying Ecological Principles
From Principles to Practice
Sustainable Crop Production
Key Practices (Crops)
Sustainable Livestock Production
Key Practices (Animals)
Unit 3: Systems in Action
Monitoring Agroecosystems
Organic Agriculture
Authors/Acknowledgements
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Unit 2: Applying Ecological Principles
Nutrient Management
Research has shown that 18 chemical elements are required for plant growth. Carbon, hydrogen and oxygen are non-mineral nutrients obtained from the air and water. The remaining 15 nutrients are mineral compounds obtained from the soil:
nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, magnesium, sulfur
macronutrients
iron, boron, chlorine, manganese, zinc, copper, molybdenum, nickel, and cobalt
micronutrients
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