High Initial Investment, High Return

   In setting up an organic farm, there is a requirement for a high initial investment. This includes special tools, labor, organic materials, licensures, and the transition period. We decided to plant this garden to create the most efficient process and need the least labor to maintain throughout the season. This process included laying down compost and organic fertilizer pre-plant, using cardboard to shade out weeds and hold in moisture, planting rye grass in row middles to catch excess nutrients and shade out weeds with their allelopathic capabilities, and using both non-native and native wildflowers to foster pollinators and beneficials to help with pests as well. In addition, marigolds themselves have been shown to ward off a number of pest insect species. The seeding of the majority of our crops that tolerate transplanting within the greenhouse supports uniform growth and vigorous root systems before planting will help them tolerate the environmental conditions of the farm. We have also decided for leave a portion of our available farmland as a fallow space which will continue to foster favorable soil conditions and insect populations. All of this adds up to a potentially higher cost to ensure success, but I believe it is absolutely worth it for the return of sustainability and healthy, organic food.