For a healthy soil

A healthy soil means healthy food. Firstly, we need to maintain soil fertility to feed the world. Secondly, the soil is the second largest carbon reservoir of the planet, so organic soil mitigates climate change. Thirdly, a healthy, living soil provides better protection against droughts and floods.

As an organic grower, Javier Moreno is very aware of the fertility of his soil. Once a year, he incorporates compost to feed the multitude of microorganisms that provide the nutrients for the avocado trees. These regular compost applications form the basis of the fertility program. This compost is made from local farmyard manure, packhouse waste, shredded tree prunings and other suitable organic matter. After fermenting for 6 – 8 weeks, this compost contains organic sources of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium as well as trace minerals and – most importantly – many aerobic bacteria and fungi which provide the nutrients to the plants at the right time and in the right amount.

Javier also produces his own vermicompost. This nutrient rich compost is produced in special “beds” in which worms break down organic matter to create humus or worm casts. These nutrients are more easily assimilated by the plants than regular compost and are frequently applied to cure diseased avocado trees or prevent any nutrient deficiencies in the orchard. Instead of just feeding the soil, worm compost has a more direct effect on the plants and is used more as a medicine.