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.

            

  • Singing Retreat in the Wye Valley

    The Singing Retreat in the Wye Valley is a singing holiday that will run from Friday evening 24th May until Monday 27th May Bank Holiday.

    The earth will be warm so come and sing the summer in with your hearts and voices!

    Over the long weekend, we will be singing a glorious array of four part harmony songs, ranging from uplifting Gospel, shape note, folk, contemporary and world music – all beautiful songs taught by ear so that there is no need to read music.

    The singing will be led by Sheila Tang, an inspiring choir and workshop leader who has many years’ experience of facilitating great singing from even the most inexperienced singers in a fun and joyful way.

    There will also be early morning yoga before breakfast for those who fancy some bodywork and invigorating stretches, and a whole camp ceremony on the Sunday. Feel free to bring your musical instruments for jamming sessions in the evenings.

    The workshops will take place in a light and airy wooden floored hall. There is plenty of space to camp or to bring your live-in vehicle, or if you'd prefer to sleep indoors, the 'Bunkhouse' has beds in shared dormitory rooms.

    There is also a chill out space for evening gatherings. All the indoor spaces have heating and open out onto the farm land, which has orchards, a lake and beautiful views of the Wye Valley.

    Friday is setting up day, where you can arrive and enjoy the idyllic surroundings. The retreat starts with evening dinner at 7pm. Delicious, home cooked meals are provided from Friday evening until Monday lunchtime. This will be a wonderful few days of singing, jamming, celebration and community in beautiful surroundings.

    Please contact Sheila Tang if you're interested in booking a space for this singing holiday, and also if you’d like to book a dormitory bed.

    Previous camps have sold out early, so please book in advance to avoid disappointment as places are limited.

    Prices are £185 camping, £210 bed in a shared room, inclusive of all food and refreshments from Friday eve to Monday lunchtime.

     

    ffi email sheilatang68@hotmail.com

    Or visit the website, please CLICK HERE
     

     


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