Difference Between Subsistence Farming and Intensive Farming

Subsistence Farming vs Intensive Farming

Subsistence farming and Intensive farming are two ways of cultivation and differ in their objectives. Farming dates back in 8000 BC, it used to be one of the primary way of life in every country. It is the main source for provision. However, as centuries unfold, various types of farming have been made by man. Some of these are Subsistence farming and Intensive farming.

Subsistence Farming

Subsistence farming is used as a primary way for a family or a community to have food served on their table, the whole year round. It is when, they just plant and cultivate crops for their own consumption based on their own calculation of the needed produce for the whole month or year. Farmers make sure that they have enough to last their family and no profit is intended for this.

Intensive Farming

Intensive farming is for mass production of crops that can supply enough for a whole lot of consumers. It utilizes large land area with big investments on using labor, fertilizers and pesticides. The main reason for this type of farming is to gain profit. Since it is used for commercial production, this makes use of the latest machinery and technology to further enhance its output.

Difference between Subsistence Farming and Intensive Farming

These two takes advantage of fertile lands that is basically abundant to almost everywhere. Though subsistence farming is mainly done for survival, but somehow it is vulnerable to weather changes and pests attack which could pose a problem. It uses simple tools and small amount of animals to toil the land so there is that possibility that the crops they grow might not be of the best quality. Intensive on the other hand, uses the latest technology to grow crops the most efficient way and weather conditions are also taken into consideration in order attain optimum harvest.

Both farming yield results, however the difference can simply be broken into the one for gaining profit while the other would be for personal consumption. Regardless as to what method is using in raising crops, the important thing is that it is enough to sustain one’s needs be it for financial means or otherwise.