We have always believed in an integrated growing system that includes livestock, vegetable, fruit, and flower crops. Our animals and plants benefit from this relationship and the farm fertility is more independently sustainable. We are very focused on raising the most nutritious and tastiest food possible. Besides following certified organic practices that honor natural processes of recycling of nutrients through decomposition, we also focus strongly on biological practices that prioritize proper soil mineralization and microbial health that put the spotlight on soil carbon restoration. We sold our roto-tiller in 2014 and took the plunge into no-till. Additionally we have upgraded our cover cropping practices with more pre-season, in season and post-season use of cover crop cocktails (use of several species).
Another important part of our fertility program includes heavy use of mulch with hay, straw, woodchips, and leaves. Keeping the soil covered at all times, with either growing plants (ideal) or with dead materials, is paramount to keeping the soil microbiology happy and well-fed. Finally, we work with our consultants at Advancing EcoAgriculture to maintain a weekly foliar spray program for all of our vegetables and fruits with fertility enhancing macro and micronutrients, biology and natural biostimulants like kelp. It is all about maximizing photosynthesis and making our soil mycorrhizal fungi friendly. Read Jack’s internationally acclaimed and in 9 languages– “Soil Carbon Restoration: Can Biology Do the Job?” . Specifically, the taste of our produce is unbeatable, its “shelf life” is extended, color and texture are stronger, and yields have been improving each year for the past several years.
We use certified organic seed where possible and favor open pollinated seeds over hybrids because of a higher capability for plants of open pollinated varieties to grow strong rooting systems and thus enhance their genetic potential. We never use treated or GMO seeds.