Devon's innovative farm encourages a diverse range of inhabitants, including cannabis, slugs, moles, and mice.
In the heart of rural Britain, a transformation is taking place on a farm that was once a dairy pasture. The individual at the helm of this change sought to prove that food can be grown as part of an ecosystem where every animal and insect has its place.
This journey began after the individual enrolled in a horticulture diploma, driven by a desire to nurture and protect the environment they were familiar with. Their studies took them across the Atlantic, delving into compost, soil health, and the use of cover crops.
The farm's philosophy is rooted in the principles of natural farming, an ecological and sustainable approach to agriculture that emphasizes farming in harmony with nature. This philosophy, which has evolved over time, is inspired by pioneers like Sir Albert Howard, F.H. King, and Rudolf Steiner, who advocated for organic methods based on traditional sustainable farming practices.
Natural farming avoids synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, and genetically modified organisms. Instead, it relies on animal manures, compost, cover crops, and crop rotation for soil fertility and pest control. For instance, the farm encourages weeds like sow thistle and nettle, not only as edible plants but also for their role in pollination, fertility, and complex polycultures with vegetables.
The farm's approach to pest management is unique. Pests are seen as an integral part of the system, with more slugs leading to more beetles and birds of prey controlling pigeons. The farm's ecosystem rebuilds itself as years pass, demonstrating the resilience of natural farming practices.
Biodiversity and climate resilience are prioritized on the farm. Weeds are encouraged for their role in pollination, fertility, and the creation of diverse farming systems. The farm has also embraced agroforestry, perennials, food forests, perennial vegetables, and syntropic agriculture, all of which contribute to a more sustainable and resilient farming system.
The benefits of natural farming are far-reaching. It enhances soil health and fertility, protects and promotes biodiversity, reduces environmental pollution and greenhouse gas emissions, and improves resilience to climate variability. It also lowers production costs, making it a viable option for smallholder farmers.
Birch Farm, part of The Collective at Woolsery, is a shining example of this approach. It grows local sustainable produce for The Farmers Arms pub, contributing to the community's food security and sustainability.
The individual's natural farming journey is a personal one, viewed as a philosophy rather than a set of instructions. They draw inspiration from Japan, where natural farming is seen as a deeply personal belief that each individual must translate for themselves. They have learned the importance of not separating themselves from the ecosystem and practicing compassionate intervention.
For more information about The Collective at Woolsery, visit woolsery.com. Embracing natural farming is not just a choice; it's a commitment to a sustainable future for our planet and our food systems.
- The individual, driven by a passion for nurturing and protecting the environment, embarked on a horticulture journey.
- The individual's studies delved into various aspects of horticulture, including compost, soil health, and the use of cover crops.
- The farm's transformation is rooted in the principles of natural farming, an ecological and sustainable approach to agriculture.
- The farm avoids synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, and genetically modified organisms, instead relying on animal manures, compost, cover crops, and crop rotation.
- Weeds are encouraged on the farm for their role in pollination, fertility, and the creation of diverse farming systems.
- The farm's approach to pest management focuses on viewing pests as an integral part of the system, promoting a balanced ecosystem.
- The farm prioritizes biodiversity and climate resilience, implementing practices like agroforestry, perennials, and syntropic agriculture.
- Natural farming enhances soil health, promotes biodiversity, and lowers production costs, making it a viable option for smallholder farmers.
- Birch Farm, part of The Collective at Woolsery, grows local sustainable produce for The Farmers Arms pub, contributing to the community's food security and sustainability.
- The individual views natural farming as a personal philosophy, learning the importance of not separating themselves from the ecosystem and practicing compassionate intervention.
- Embracing natural farming is a commitment to a sustainable future for our planet and our food systems, a choice that offers far-reaching benefits.
- To learn more about The Collective at Woolsery, visit woolsery.com.
- Natural farming, derived from the teachings of pioneers like Sir Albert Howard, F.H. King, and Rudolf Steiner, advocates for organic methods based on traditional sustainable farming practices.
- The benefits of natural farming extend beyond the farm, protecting the environment and improving global food security.
- As part of their personal growth and career development, individuals can explore online education, books, and skills training in horticulture, gardening, sustainable living, and global cuisines.
