First week of the course

 Hello,

    So this is my first blog post so I don't really know what to say about it. All I would like to say is that I am fairly new to this online study session since I spent my last year staying at home helping my parents after ending my diploma. Well...... enough about that, on to my first week of the class.

    Anyway,  regarding for my first class for the subject, it started with a brief explanation on the course outline followed some introduction on the subject as well as some 'ice breaking' session with the class. We did delve into the subject on farming equipment on the day, which introduced us to some familiar tools such as a spade, rake, shovel etc. There were some unfamiliar ones for me such as the hand cultivar and pruning shears. Turns out there were actually a lot more specific tools used for gardening/farming than I thought.

    There was also a brief explanation on the preparation of planting area (plowing, farm bed preparation and lining). I will learn about this topic in more detail in the future so stay tuned.

    Subject on proper farm maintenance was also touched, mainly on the tool maintenance. Taking proper care on tools can help them last longer, which in turn will reduce cost for the equipment repairs. Farming tools should be properly washes every time after they are used. BUT!!! more importantly, make sure that they are dried properly before they are stored or else they will rust very fast. Storing the tools in proper place will also allow you to keep track on them. Speaking of which, make sure to keep records on your tools. Keeping record of farm tools usage can help prevent the tools from disappearing or stolen. For tools that have bolt or screws, grease them up to allow smoother turning and movement.

    There are also 'special' tools used in farms to ensure the growth of the crops. These are divided into 4 groups which are; physical, biological, cultural and chemical control measure. A prime example of physical control is by altering the environment (humidity, water, light etc.), making it unsuitable for pest to live in. Biological control measure is basically using organism that are natural enemies to the pest that harms your crops. Meanwhile, cultural control measures are the practices/farming technique used on the farm. For example, like crop rotation and polyculture (planting various crops in an area). As for chemical control, well...... it's kinda self explanatory. You use chemicals, such as pesticides and herbicides to control pest and weeds. But do remember that these chemicals will impact the environment so make sure to properly think about using this method.

    That should be everything that I learned on the first week of this course. See you next time. Thanks.