Reap your harvest, wherever you are
RANDBURG – Organic farmer shares his notes for readers who were eager to reap their own harvest while at home.
Daniel Pires, founder and owner of Virgin City Fields has delivered fresh produce to the Randburg area and surrounds during the national lockdown. The organic farmer shared his notes for readers who were eager to reap their own harvest while at home.
“Many times when the word ‘farming’ is mentioned most people think about acres of land on the outskirts of the city with many tractors and equipment and that is not so! I started farming before I had a garden and used all kinds of containers – some bought and some I made myself.
“Farming can be done on a large or small scale – both grow food and feed people so I highly recommend that people start in their homes even if you live in an apartment and don’t have a garden you can still farm!
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“The nurseries are closed at the moment so get creative and use what you have at home, plastic bottles, reuse toilet paper rolls for seedlings, you can even find old wood in your garage and make wooden vases and don’t forget to make some holes in them for drainage. When I started (before I had a garden) I never bought soil. I made my own compost from fruit and veg off cuts and peels. I raked my neighbours’ leaves that fell onto my side of the wall and started composting the leaves, I also collected grass cuttings and went to the stables and picked up free horse manure!
“If you are unable to buy any seeds now, just start collect seeds. The seeds should be picked out of your fruits and vegetables before you eat them, clean and dry them out. Living Seeds sells non GMO heirloom seeds – simply order online and they will deliver to your door. The sooner you start, the quicker you will learn – start small and use what you have, be patient and before you know it you will reap a harvest!
“If you are clueless, start with online research. YouTube and Pinterest have so many ideas and DIY tips. While winter approaches, find out what to plant during the season and how to water and maintain your plants. If you have limited space I recommend you grow some herbs, they are full of nutrients and can be added to your meals.
“Good luck!”
Details: Facebook: Virgin City Fields; Instagram: @virgincityfields
Related Article:
https://www.citizen.co.za/randburg-sun/391097/8-top-immune-boosting-foods-vitamins-may-protect-infections/
