A great article exploring the two most popular types of types intensive gardening techniques and some of the considerations for each.
http://www.motherearthnews.com/organic-gardening/intensive-gardening-zm0z14fmzsto.aspx#axzz2x5YLENdv
Also check out the following groups on Peak Prosperity the discuss intensive gardening techniques.
Agriculture & Permaculture: http://www.peakprosperitycom.bigscoots-staging.com/group/agriculture-permaculture
Biointensive Gardening: https://www.peakprosperitycom.bigscoots-staging.com/group/biointensive-gardening