PUBLICATION W235B
Transitioning to Organic Farm Systems
If you have questions about this resource, contact your county Extension office.
Summary
Transitioning to organic farming means replacing synthetic fertilizers and pesticides with practices that build soil health, biodiversity, and natural pest control. This guide explains the 3-year rule for certification and how the National Organic Program defines prohibited and allowed inputs, including the National List and OMRI product list. It outlines common transition challenges, recordkeeping needs, and steps for choosing a certifier. Describes three transition approaches: gradual change, converting one field at a time, or switching the whole farm at once.
Publications in Series: Introduction to Organic and Sustainable Agriculture Practices
Building Healthy Soils
Increasing Farm Biodiversity
Crop Rotations
Trap Crops, Intercropping and Companion Planting
Cover Crops and Green Manures
Communicating the Green Advantages of Wood to Your Customers: A Marketing Guide for Manufacturers
Fall Cover Crop Selection and Planting Dates in Tennessee
Harvested for You
Based on the subjects and categories of this publication, you may be interested in the following resources.
Tennessee Private Pesticide Applicator Recordkeeping Manual
Forage Herbicide Quick Reference Guide
Business Licenses and Taxes for Tennessee Farms with Value-Added Enterprises
