Kutluhan Özdemir is a man who has dedicated his life to discovering and practicing sustainable farming methods. Growing up in the city and studying mathematics, Kutluhan felt a strong pull to reconnect with nature and grow his own food. After reading books by Japanese botanist and philosopher Masanobu Fukuoka, he decided to explore the world of natural farming. This path led him to live with Fukuoka's disciples in Greece and South America for over seven years.

During this time, Kutluhan learned that farming doesn’t have to be labor-intensive and that it’s possible to achieve remarkable results by letting nature take its course. His philosophy is based on the idea that the Earth needs to be deeply respected, and that every human action should contribute to its fertility.

The Fukuoka Method: Do-Nothing Farming

The Fukuoka farming movement, inspired by Japanese pioneer Masanobu Fukuoka, is gaining popularity worldwide thanks to its innovative philosophy of natural and sustainable cultivation.

The “Do-Nothing” Farming, as the name suggests, is founded on key principles that minimize human intervention in Nature. There is no tilling, pruning, fertilizing, irrigating, or use of pesticides; instead, the focus is on promoting biodiversity. This way, the Earth is left to breathe and regenerate naturally.

This approach not only improves soil health but also represents an ecological and regenerative alternative to traditional agriculture, paving the way for a collective change that is more necessary than ever.

The Process of Sowing and Harvesting

After an initial “awakening” phase for the soil, achieved by repeated sowing with the seedball technique, Kutluhan’s farm began to thrive like never before. The seedball method involves creating small balls of seeds that are scattered across the field. These balls contain a mix of seeds and organic material that decomposes over time, steadily providing nutrients to the soil.

Mulching is another fundamental element in Natural Farming; Kutluhan uses leaves, straw, and hay to protect the soil and keep moisture consistent.

The Fukuoka Method offers a fully sustainable model of agriculture that listens to, respects, and honors the Earth, which always returns in abundance the love it receives. Today, Kutluhan harvests about 100 kg of vegetables every week, including peppers, tomatoes, beans, and turnips.

The Economic Benefits of the Fukuoka Method

One of the most interesting aspects of “Do-Nothing” Farming is its economic sustainability. Kutluhan sells vegetables at a fixed price of €2 per kg, without incurring the high production costs of traditional farming. The lack of heavy machinery and chemical fertilizers significantly reduces expenses.

For Kutluhan, just a 100-square-meter plot of land cultivated with the Fukuoka Method yields between 400 and 500 kg of vegetables per year. For a family of three or four, this is enough to guarantee complete food self-sufficiency.

The Role of Biodiversity

Biodiversity is essential for the success of “Do-Nothing” Farming. Kutluhan cultivates a wide variety of plant species within the same agricultural space, creating a balanced ecosystem. Through companion planting, the plants support each other and contribute to improving soil quality. Some plants do this through nitrogen fixation, like beans and peas, while others act as natural pest repellents, such as daisies.

Agricultural diversification increases soil fertility: the different roots and organic materials that form enrich the soil, improving its ability to retain water and nutrients. A diversified agricultural system thus becomes more resilient than a monoculture, with various plant species creating complex habitats and hindering the spread of pests and diseases.

How to Get Started? Resources on the Fukuoka Method

For those interested in learning the Fukuoka Method, there are plenty of resources and learning opportunities available. To start, you can visit the website dedicated to Masanobu Fukuoka here, where you’ll find detailed information on his methods and publications.

Another exciting step is to connect with communities

practicing Fukuoka farming. There are countless groups, both online and local, where you can find passionate people ready to share experiences, practical advice, and all the support you need to get started. And if you really want to get your hands dirty, there are Do-Nothing Farming courses and workshops, perfect for hands-on learning.

To apply Fukuoka’s principles, you can also start experimenting in your garden or vegetable patch. With a bit of patience and a lot of love, you’ll discover that even small changes, like reducing soil tilling and using natural mulch, can transform the soil and make a big difference.

In a Nutshell

The story of Kutluhan Özdemir is an inspiring example of how farming can enrich the soil instead of depleting it, reducing human intervention and promoting biodiversity. In this journey toward environmental and social sustainability, Kutluhan shows us that by following the principles of the Fukuoka Method, it’s possible to create a farming system that nourishes both people and the Earth. Each of us can play our part: whether it’s cultivating a vegetable garden, joining an agricultural community, supporting local farmers, or educating others on the benefits of natural farming, every action we take contributes to building a greener, more resilient, and just future.