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.

            

  • One Day Practical Biofertiliser & Fermenting Course (May)

    A one day course with Juanfran Lopez and Matt Dunwell  

    19th May    9.30 - 4.30

    A chance to learn how to regenerate farm and garden systems using home produced Biofertiliser, Native micro organisms, Aerobic and Anaerobic compost teas and  ‘Apichi’ for natural pest control. 

    Over the course of the day we will be collecting native microbes to make cheap but effective natural fertilisers and tonics for the plant and soil. 

    The day will be practically orientated although there will be a chance to discuss and learn some principles, objectives and strategies of Regenerative Agriculture.

    By the end of the day you will have the practical knowledge to make your own preparations at home, and a ‘starter kit’ of resources to take home with you including a fresh and mature batch of native microbes and a bottle of Apichi 'natural pesticide', biofertiliser for diluted use. 

    "Good mix between technical and practical; science and simple!"

    Juanfran Lopez has studied with the Columbian Jairo Restrepo, one of the leading teachers of microbialpreparations for healthy biological systems. Juanfran has also travelled through South America and Spain specializing in regenerative agriculture, learning and teaching as he travels. He runs the research into Regenerative Agriculture at Ragmans Farm, and has completed our first year of field trials.  Analysis and discussion of these trials including a chance to see soil dynamics under a microscope, will also be available on the course.

    Who should attend: Gardeners and small scale growers and farmers.

     "I have a good basis now on how to and what use can be applied. Excited to try"

    I feel much bolder about it all and also how it links into the wider system"

    "Great environment with practical demonstrations, as well as academic. Enjoyed it and learnt loads"

    "Can't wait to get started"

    Special Offer - Book onto this Bio Fertiliser course and the Regenerative Agriculture & Chromatography couse in June, and we will refund you the Bio Fertiiser course fee - so you get to attend for FREE!

     Tea and coffee included, please bring a packed lunch


    £75.00

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