This Farming Life - February in Castlefarm

What it means to be an organic farmer in Ireland today … Jenny Young writes about life and work on an organic mixed farm in Co Kildare - and selling its produce

Castlefarm in February

At Castlefarm we have a number of allotments, which people rent to grow their own food. It is nice to be able to share our land with people who are interested in growing their own food. It’s hard work, but well worth the effort and we help as much as we can.

In February we clear and plough the plots, as well as my own vegetable plot. This means less digging for the allotment holders. After the plots have been ploughed, and when it is dry enough, the allotment holders will rotovate and plan their vegetable beds. They are also provided with well rotted farmyard manure which they dig into the soil. It is the best natural fertiliser you can use.

Because we are an organic farm and don’t use artificial fertilisers and sprays, rotating crops is extremely important. Planting the same vegetable group in the same area year after year depletes the soil of important nutrients and takes away from the health and fertility of the soil. Crops are divided into 4 groups, legumes, brassicas, alliums and solanums.

Perennial plants, such as rhubarb, globe artichokes etc which come back year after year are not rotated. So February is the month for soil preparation and crop planning. It is important to be ready when the weather starts to warm up so that the most can be made of our growing season.

On our farm, onions and potatoes will be planted in March and seed trays are now being used to start off seedlings.

Castlefarm Shop opens every week normally on a Friday or Saturday but you need to sign up to facebook, emails or text alerts to keep up to date with opening days and farm specials. To receive our newsletter and news of new products by email please sign up to our email, or text updates or like us on facebook. Castlefarm Shop, Narraghmore, Athy, Co Kildare, Email jenny@castlefarmshop.ie, log onto www.castlefarmshop.ie or telephone 087 678 5269

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