Soil is arguably one of the earth’s most important – yet often neglected – natural resources. It is essential for life on earth because it nurtures plants, which in turn provide food and oxygen for humans and animals. A healthy soil is the basis for any sustainable development in agriculture and, managed in the right way serves as a remarkable solution to various environmental threats such as water scarcity, climate change, food security.Organic farmers like Comfruit growers are committed to further develop soil and mineral resources through compost and other adequate soil treatment tools, rather than just using them. Important practices used by Comfruit growers to maintain and improve the health of the soil include:
• Using compost and other organic fertilisers – to improve soil structure and prevent soil erosion
• Not using any artificial fertilisers and chemical synthetic pesticides. This helps to protect soil life and with it the soils and plants health and natural disease resistance.
• Sowing between the apple and pear trees. – to prevent soil erosion and nutrient leaching
• Planting hedges and meadows – to prevent soil erosion and nutrient loss
When it comes to producing high quality compost, the secret lies in the methods used to develop it: controlled microbiological composting technology regularly monitors and – if required–corrects the temperature, humidity and carbon dioxide of the compost. The composting process is furthermore stimulated by the application of carefully selected inoculants.