Market Garden blog Click Here!
Small Scale Market Garden: Embracing Organic No-Till Techniques
Our small scale market garden, spanning less than 1 acre, is a thriving example of sustainable and efficient farming practices. At the heart of our operation is a commitment to organic no-till techniques, which not only promote soil health but also reduce our environmental footprint.
Key to Success: BCS 749 Walk-Behind Tractor
Our trusty BCS 749 walk-behind tractor is the workhorse behind our no-till approach. This versatile machine enables us to plow 30-inch beds with ease, creating the perfect conditions for our diverse range of crops. With the ability to support between 1 to 12 rows of crops per bed, we can optimize our space and maximize yields. In our no-till approach, we focus on plowing the walk paths between the beds to elevate the beds themselves. After this, we flail mow the beds and perform a shallow harrowing of the top two inches of soil. This method avoids turning over the soil layers, unlike traditional tillage, which helps promote healthy soil. Following this process, we cover the beds with tarps for a few weeks to terminate any weed seeds. Once this period is complete, we remove the tarps, add compost and any necessary amendments, and then proceed to plant.
Current Operations and Expansion Plans
Currently, we have approximately 30 beds in production, with a variety of crops carefully selected to ensure a balanced and thriving ecosystem. As we continue to expand our operations, we're excited to increase our bed count and explore new crop possibilities. Our goal is to create a resilient and biodiverse market garden that showcases the potential of small-scale, organic farming.
Benefits of Organic No-Till Techniques
- Preserve soil structure and promote healthy microbial activity
- Reduce soil erosion and compaction
- Minimize the use of synthetic fertilizers and pesticides
- Create a more diverse and resilient ecosystem
- Increase crop yields and quality
A Growing Vision
As we expand our market garden, we're committed to sharing our knowledge and experience with others. We believe that small-scale, organic farming has the potential to transform the way we produce and consume food, and we're excited to be a part of this movement. Stay tuned for updates on our progress, and join us in our journey towards a more sustainable food future!