Can anyone recommend some good resources/reading material for farming organic kale at commercial scale?
Can anyone recommend some good resources/reading material for farming organic kale at commercial scale?
Extra double bonus points for greenhouse production.
Thanks!!
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I don't know how you define "organic".
Does that mean "free of certain pesticides", or "natural fertilizer only", or something else to you?Maybe hydroponics could be for you. It's extremely well scalable, plants grow better than in soil, you don't need to worry that much about pest control, less wasteful than soil, efficient, and much more.
But, you'll need inorganic (mineralic) fertilizer. Depending on your definition and standards you want to follow, this could be a problem.USDA organic standards is what I'm looking for, or other US certs.
The commercial greenhouse already exists. It's about to get new owners, and is going to change crop types.
I was asked about the possibility of facilitating the switch, and looking for resources to guide me.
A few places to start: The local extension agent. Local suppliers might have some expertise. You might find an organic supplier that knows something. However to be honest in the U.S. you are not going to find much useful. Most of what you will be told is unsubstantiated bullshit ment to make a sale.
Your best bet is to hop on a plane to northern Europe and tour some of the organic greenhouse facilities.
This link seems like what you're lookibg for. Are you in the US? If so, you should also reach out to your nearby extension office for extra documentation and support for the transition of the farm. They'll have best practices and resources for growing particular crops in your area.