An alternative high-yield farming method devised by John Jeavons. Drawing on traditional Chinese practices, Steiner's biodynamic farming, and French Intensive, the biointensive approach aims to grow soil rapidly, cut water consumption, and maintain optimal food production (the claim is that 100 square feet can feed one person for a year). The keystone: double-dug raised convex beds a meter or two wide oriented in a north-south axis for adequate sunlight. Small paths between rows minimize soil compaction and maximize plant microclimates. Leaves of mature plants just touch ("living mulch"). Steps for initial bed preparation include:

1. Soak area for two hours, let dry for two days. # Loosen soil 12 inches deep with a spading fork and remove weeds. # Water for five minutes and let soil rest a day. # Spread compost, water five minutes, let soil rest a day. # Double dig to 24 inches; dig, don’t pulverize, and don’t turn over the upper layer. Dig when moist to avoid wrecking the soil structure. # Rake level, water 5 minutes, let rest a day. # Compost with a 50% soil mixture. # Plant seeds in beds 2-10 inches high. Space seeds hexagonally. # Water. # Water lightly daily in late afternoon.