Fertilisation plan

Our approach to on farm fertility is the management of the dynamic between organic matter, minerals, and biology.  We try to create a balanced system based on homemade foliar sprays.

The production of biofertilisers, the reproduction of different types of microorganisms, amendments and different mineral brews are done on the farm with free or very low cost resources. 

We are conducting tests in the orchard and garden to try to measure the effectiveness of this approach. Juanfran Lopez,s detailed results from his Shallot trails are in this PDF. During 2016 we took baseline data of soil minerals, and have measured our trial and control areas regularly over the last 12 months.  This work is ongoing.  However, a soil test does not necessarily indicate that soil minerals are being taken up by the plant or tree. We therefore plan to take leaf tests throughout 2017 in the orchards to monitor mineral deficiencies within the trees in order to correct them if necessary. Please read the PDFs about our orchard management in the side bar for a detailed explanation.

Although the Orchard fertilisation plan looks complex, it is possible to start with a simple general spray plan of one or two preparations, and then develop particular products on farm to suit your needs. 

Our fertilisation plan gives an idea of how you can build up specific minerals using biological sprays. This means that we avoid the use of herbicides. We also avoid the use of copper based fungicides that are used in the management of organic top fruit.

            

  • Embers - an Autumn Yoga and Massage Retreat

    25-27TH October 2019

    We're thrilled to invite you to our next retreat offering, EMBERS, in the enchanting Ragmans Lane Farm that played home to our heart - full retreat LIGHT earlier this year.

    Join us for a weekend of creativity, joy & reflection after the long dance of summer, as we embrace Autumn and prepare for the darker months.

    The days will move between creative yoga practices, time exploring nature, ceremony, epic feasts, restorative massage & fire circles. A little bit of surrendering to the flow of the day too.

    We'll explore awakening vinyasa and deep meditation to re-connect us with our true essence, wild spirit and sense of purpose. Much coloured by Elena's work with chakra philosophy, creative movement & mantra.

    You'll receive a 30 minute tailored massage treatment with Steve, rooted in the traditions of Ayurveda and holistic bodywork, helping you to unwind, restore muscle tone & re-balance your nervous system.

    We'll share 3 delicious vegetarian meals each day in the beautiful open Ragman's kitchen - organic and locally sourced where possible - and stacked high with treats to fuel you for the day's activities. We are advocates of eating big.

    An invigorating muddy hike following the path of the river Wye will allow you to explore the wild abundance around, and there'll always be a fire burning - either inside in the living room or outside in the fire pit (or both!). Wild swim anyone?

    There'll be a Saturday afternoon optional workshop exploring either: Inversions, Local Herbalism//Crafts, The Chakra System, Mantras.

    Come as you are.

    Home for this weekend is the magical Ragmans Farm. Hidden deep in the heart of the Forest of Dean in the Wye Valley, Ragmans is a 60 acre organic farm where permaculture and organic farming practices are the guiding principles to regenerate the land. Ragmans sits in an area of outstanding beauty, a stones throw from the river Wye which we'll wind down to during our Saturday hike.

    Date & times: Friday 25th Oct - Sunday 27th October 2019 / 4pm - 4pm

    Accommodation & prices (non mixed dormitory accommodation & camping)
    EARLY BIRD OFFER (book before Aug 1st)
    Beamed dormitory x 6: £340 (£299 early bird)
    Bunk dormitory x 4: £340 (£299 early bird)
    Mezzanine floor dormitory: x3: £320 (£279 early bird)
    Own tent/campervan: £280 (£239 early bird)

    To reserve your place:

    Elena: 07835 813910 / elenabyers@hotmail.co.uk

    Steve: 07598 278130 / aym.steve@gmail.com

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/268770140610085/?ti=icl

    Please don't let money be an obstacle, if you feel called to join us but money stands in the way drop us a line and we'll work out payment options where needed.


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