
Summary
Farmer Jesse addresses a range of questions from listeners regarding ecological farming practices, particularly focusing on indigenous microorganisms (IMO) and composting techniques. He explains the concept of IMO, which is part of Korean natural farming, emphasizing its role as an alternative to chemical agriculture. Jesse details the process of creating IMO, from collecting microbes to preparing compost, but he also notes that while it can be beneficial, it may not necessarily outperform traditional composting methods. He references a study indicating that farm-produced compost often yields better nutrient quality and ecosystem balance compared to IMO.
Listeners also inquire about practical farming decisions, such as whether to build garden beds before or after constructing a high tunnel. Jesse advises that building beds first is generally more efficient, as it avoids complications with equipment maneuverability and potential damage to the tunnel structure. He emphasizes the importance of covering soil promptly to prevent erosion, especially in areas prone to heavy winds and rain.
Additionally, Jesse engages with a question about starting a market garden in Massachusetts, stressing the importance of thorough market research before acquiring land. He suggests that aspiring farmers should analyze local markets and determine crop viability to inform their startup capital needs. Jesse's insights reflect a blend of practical advice and personal experience, aiming to equip listeners with the knowledge to navigate the complexities of sustainable farming.
Show Notes
Welcome to episode 518 of Growers Daily! Today we are reaching into the mailbag to get some interesting questions ranging from, what are my opinion on IMOs (indigenous micro organisms), should you build your garden beds before or after you build your high tunnel, and do a little WWFJD on starting a farm. Very acronym-onious day. We are a Non-Profit! π π DONATE π https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=ALF4MZX26SVSQ https://app.candid.org/profile/16047666
Links for today: No-Till Growers Fantasy Football league: https://fantasy.premierleague.com/leagues/auto-join/5ligds Small Grain Growers Podcast (apple): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-small-grain-growers-podcast/id6802391482?i=1000783918014
Small Grain Growers Podcast (spotify): https://open.spotify.com/show/7Aplvwpjtz9R7J360SQ69A Small Grain Growers Podcats IG: https://www.instagram.com/smallgraingrowerspodcast/?hl=en Patreon Feedback Page: https://www.patreon.com/notillgrowers/posts/how-can-we-show-163144957 NTG Forum: https://notillgrowers.community.chat/ Market Research Video: https://youtu.be/afEXNqx5COs IMO foliar study https://rsisinternational.org/journals/ijriss/articles/effect-of-indigenous-microorganisms-and-fish-amino-acids-on-the-yield-potential-of-eggplant-solanum-melongena-through-foliar-application/ Compares IMO to NPK and EM: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/389255811_Effects_of_Indigenous_Microorganism_Fertilizers_IMO_Effective_Fertilizers_EM_and_Mineral_Fertilizers_NPK_on_the_Yield_and_Nutritional_Value_of_Two_Varieties_of_Arachis_hypogaea_Grown_Locally_in_West_C A very interesting SARE IMO study: https://projects.sare.org/media/pdf/C/o/m/Comparison-of-Farm-produced-and-Commercial-Microorganism-Inoculants-Cost-Nutrients-and-Biological-Constituents-1.pdf
MUSIC from this episode: The Ah-Oh Song by Luella Gren Caroline, I'm Leaving Now by Sully Bright Plastic Flowers by Sully Bright via www.epidemicsound.com
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