These 10 books offer you a comprehensive and holistic perspective to get started in this exciting world of agriculture and agroecology.
1. The Secret Life of Trees – Peter Wohlleben
German forester Peter Wohlleben opens our eyes to a hidden world where trees feel, communicate and collaborate with each other. Based on scientific research and personal experience, Wohlleben shows how forests are interconnected communities that depend on each other. If you are from the city, this is an ideal book to understand the importance of preserving forest ecosystems from an emotional and scientific perspective.
2. The Incredible Journey of Plants – Stefano Mancuso
Plant neurobiologist Stefano Mancuso combines science and storytelling to show in this book how plants have traveled the world, adapting to harsh conditions, colonizing continents, and surviving extreme climate changes. This book is not only a lesson in natural history, but also a source of inspiration to appreciate the ingenuity of plants and their incredible resilience.
3. Agroecology: Scientific Basis for Sustainable Agriculture – Miguel Altieri
Known as one of the fathers of modern agroecology, Miguel Altieri presents a comprehensive analysis of the scientific principles that underpin this discipline. Through practical examples, the book explains how agricultural systems can be designed to be more productive, resilient, and sustainable. A complete fundamental work for those who wish to delve deeper into the theoretical foundations of agroecology. Perfect for getting started in field work and understanding how everything can be integrated from the field.
https://agroeco.org/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/Libro-Agroecologia.pdf
4. Mierda a la carta: Un nuevo ABC de la Agricultura orgánica – Jairo Restrepo
I was recently shown this book in a workshop on microorganisms and I loved it, which is why I recommend Jairo Restrepo, who combines practical experience with a direct and accessible approach. Here, concrete methods are explained to regenerate soils, produce biofertilizers and manage organic waste in a sustainable way. Its relaxed and friendly style makes it ideal for farmers, technicians and enthusiasts looking for effective and low-cost solutions. It is the ideal book to put into practice everything learned and try and try!
https://amzn.to/4g7dvIR
5. Microbiotics and soil remineralization in peasant hands – Jesús Ignacio Simón Zamora
This book delves into the crucial role of microorganisms in soil health and remineralization. Jesús Ignacio combines scientific explanations with practical experiences in peasant communities, proposing accessible techniques with a positive impact for small farmers. It is an essential guide to understanding how to revitalize soils naturally.
6. Mycorrhizae, an agroecological strategy to optimize crop quality – María C. Jaizme-Vega
I cannot stop recommending this book by Mery Jaizme, a wonderful person and professor of the Master’s degree; Agroecology, food sovereignty, urban ecology and cooperation in rural development. This book is perhaps the most complex and technical that I recommend, but if you like the subject, you will be fascinated.
This book focuses on mycorrhizae, a symbiosis between fungi and roots that plays a key role in soil and plant health. Dr. Jaizme details how these interactions benefit crops, improving their resistance and quality. It is a technical and educational work that provides tools to incorporate this strategy into sustainable agricultural systems.
7. History of World Agriculture – Marcel Mazoyer and Laurence Roudart
A monumental work that traces the evolution of agricultural practices from the earliest civilizations to the modern era. This book explores how historical, social, and technological changes have transformed humanity’s relationship with agriculture. In addition, it offers a deep reflection on the challenges facing agriculture in a globalized world. I love it because you understand many processes and can understand this change from city to country that we so need.
https://amzn.to/3Onr8Ym
8. Vivifying the soil. Agroecological knowledge and practices – Juana Labrador, José Luis Porcuna and María C. Jaizme-Vega.
This manual combines agroecological theory and practices aimed at improving soil life and fertility. The authors explain how techniques such as organic matter management, crop associations and the use of beneficial microorganisms can transform agricultural systems. An indispensable text for those seeking practical solutions based on science and tradition.
9. L’Encyclopédie des plantes bio-indicatrices alimentary et médicinales (volumes 1, 2 and 3) – Gérard Ducerf
An encyclopedic collection that documents more than 600 species of plants with medicinal, food and bioindicator properties. This resource offers detailed information on how these plants can reveal the state of the soil, in addition to their traditional and modern uses. It is ideal for farmers, herbalists and botany lovers.
10. How to make good compost – Mariano Bueno
Mariano Bueno, a renowned expert in organic farming, offers a practical guide to transforming organic waste into high-quality compost. The book explains the techniques step by step, adapting them to different needs, from small gardens to farms. An essential read to get started in waste management and soil improvement.
https://www.lafertilidaddelatierra.com/producto/compost/
Agroecology begins with knowledge, and these books will allow you to explore everything from the secrets of forests to the most advanced techniques to improve the health of soils and crops. Each work offers a unique perspective that enriches the vision of how we can live in balance with nature. If you are not clear, you can take a look at our post dedicated to organic farming vs Agroecology.
Do you have a favorite title from this list?
Would you add any more?
Leave us your comments, share your experiences! 🌱
And…If you are still hungry for more, I have good news, Acción proambiental has compiled these 25 books on agroecology that are open source for everyone’s enjoyment.
I also add the links of associations that work with agroecology, workshops, magazines and dissemination.
https://agroecologia.net
https://www.lafertilidaddelatierra.com
https://associaciolera.org
https://apaema.net
