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As organic farmers we have to work to
the Soil
Association's standards which define what we can and cannot do and
place a strong emphasis on the protection of wildlife and the
environment. Over 20% of the UK’s greenhouse gas emissions come from
food and farming today. Nitrogen fertiliser manufacturing is the worst
offender. To produce just one tonne takes one tonne of oil, seven
tonnes of greenhouse gases and one hundred tonnes of water. Organic
farmers work with nature to feed the soil and control pests, and the
use of genetically modified organisms is prohibited in organic farming.
Fertility
Artificial chemical fertilisers are prohibited –
instead we develop a healthy, fertile soil by growing and rotating a
mixture of crops using green manures, such as Phacelia, vetch, field
beans and grazing rye, to fix nitrogen from the
atmosphere. Where extra fertility is required we supplement with
compost. Green waste compost is used as a weed mulch and soil
conditioner.
Control of pests and diseases
We never use herbicides, and rely on barriers, biologial
controls and occasionally soft soap for pests. Weeds are kept in
control by cultivation and mulches, including growing through
biodegradable cornstarch. Balanced vegetable-family rotations help to
reduce pest and disease problems.
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