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Martli Slabber - Hexrivier Citrus

Hi, I’m Martli Slabber, founder of Hexrivier Citrus, a family-owned farm in Citrusdal, in the stunning Western Cape of South Africa. Every August, the farm transforms into a sea of wildflowers, reminding of the natural beauty and biodiversity that nature offers.

Sustainability is our way of life, which is reflected in many ways, including our platinum certification for sound employment practices - recognition we are very proud of. Beyond our farm, we’ve expanded our recycling and waste management programs to benefit the entire Citrusdal community.

I have been farming since my mid-twenties (now in my fifties), in 2008 I transitioned to organic farming. Inspired by Masanobu Fukuoka's natural farming principles, we introduces indigenous plants from the Cape Floral region into our orchards, to enrich the soil and nourish the citrus trees naturally. 

Lots and lots of life in the soil, is my secret to the production of our beautiful produce.Our commitment to regenerative agriculture has resulted in healthy, productive orchards with minimal pests, while also fostering a thriving ecosystem where birds, insects, and even predators like caracals coexist in harmony.

Interview

N&M: Why did you choose to go organic?
Martli:I got inspired by the famous philosopher and farmer Masanobu Fukuoka, who pioneered a ‘natural farming’ school. Fukuoka’s methodology entailed minimal human interference in the agricultural process, but creating conditions instead in which natural processes, left to their own accord, maximise crop outputs.

N&M: Hexrivier does far more than organic farming. Why is that important for you?
Martli: Sustainable practices are not just a goal for us, but a way of life. I’m energized by helping our community create a more sustainable environment and inspired by the enthusiasm everyone brings to the effort. 

The women who run our farm are also dedicated to making a positive social impact. We have initiated recycling and waste management programs that benefit the 30 households on the farm—housing we provide to both permanent and seasonal workers—and have expanded these efforts to the wider village of Citrusdal.

Collaborating with local women, we have added waste bins, cleaned up illegal dumping sites, beautified public spaces, and established a recycling depot.

N&M: What message would you like to share with us?

Martli: If we want to change the world, we need to start by changing ourselves. And what better place to begin than with the food we choose to produce and consume?  We are all part of a magical and wondrous food chain, from the smallest beetle to the mightiest captains of industry. While you are at it, grate some organic lemon zest into your summer salad. Responsible eating should be delicious.

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What am I growing?

Geolocation is -32.5945713, 19.0137806

Sustainability flower

Tabs

Where to find?

Map

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