Healthy soils are loaded with microorganisms such as bacterias and fungi that consume organic matter and produce readily available nutrients to feed plants. To grow healthy plants it is vital to create a healthy, diverse and alive soil ecosystem.
Soil bacteria and fungi under a microscope. Image: Soil Foodweb Institute
Matthew Evans is a chef turned food critic who has moved from the big city to a small farmlet in Tasmania where he is discovering first hand what it takes to produce fresh and healthy local meat and produce. Learn about where the very best food comes from and what it takes to become a farmer as Matthew raises pigs and sheep, attempts to milk his cow and grows his own vegies whilst trying to make a living from it.
‘Gourmet Farmer‘ is on SBS One on Thursdays at 7.30pm
There is no excuse for you to not start growing your own food. Even an apartment dweller or yachty can enjoy fresh nutritious sprouts without the use of land or soil.
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Loofah seedlings in newspaper pots ready to plant out 'pots 'n' all'
These seedling pots require no staples, glue, tape or origami skills. Recycle your old newspapers and get your seeds off to a good start in these pots that can be put into the ground with the young seedlings therefore minimising root disturbance. The newspaper breaks down over time and the plants roots will grow through the newspaper. Read More & Comment →
Summit Organics Farm and Border Ranges backdrop. Photo: Peter Bracher
At Summit Organics, farmers Rod and Tania Bruin use no chemical pesticides, herbicides or fertilisers and still manage to grow quality fruit and vegetables on a commercial scale. Just how does a certified organic commercial farm work? For Greenies went along to one of their ‘Farmwalks’ in May 2010 and learnt about the process from seedling to harvesting, weeding without herbicides, the importance of compost and energy efficient irrigation. The day was topped off with a beautiful meal made by Russel Scott in his self-sufficient food caravan comprised entirely of Summit Organics fresh salad greens and locally produced vegetarian ingredients.
Check out Summit Organics Facebook Page for upcoming Farmwalk events!
Here is the For Greenies video summarising the day…
It is one thing knowing how to design and plant a food garden. Knowing how to prepare the harvested food for eating is something equally important and completes the whole process of organic gardening. All your efforts in the garden are rewarded when you taste the delicious nutritious food that you have produced yourself – and it always tastes better when you have grown it yourself! Read More & Comment →
