news and blog
INNOVATIVE FARMERS - Evaluating bokashi manure treatment
Gone are the days of bokashi bins solely residing in kitchens. A new field lab in Scotland, launched in May 2023, is exploring the potential of bokashi microorganisms for a different kind of breakdown: that of animal bedding and dung. Farmer Andrew Barbour, at one of the trial sites, Glen Fincastle, is looking to bokashi as a solution on multiple fronts. Minimizing nutrient loss from housed manure, reducing methane and ammonia emissions, and even finding a straw alternative to improve soil biology and productivity – these are the goals driving Andrew's participation in the bokashi field lab.
We're at the Devon County Show!
The Devon County Show is back! We're joining the fun May 16th-18th. See amazing animals, delicious food, and exciting displays! Swing by our stand and say hi!
The Isle of Wight Garlic Farm Goes Green with Sustainable Composting!
The Isle of Wight Garlic Farm, a name synonymous with delicious garlic and a dedication to sustainable practices for over 60 years, is taking another step towards a greener future. Partnering with Agriton and Ridan, they're tackling food waste and boosting soil health through innovative composting solutions. This exciting collaboration not only benefits the farm and the environment, but also paves the way for even tastier garlic!
May Bee Magic: Essential Beekeeping Tasks for a Thriving Hive
May is a crucial month for beekeepers! While managing essentials like adding supers and monitoring for swarms remains key, natural approaches like Effective Microorganisms (EM) are gaining traction. EM's potential benefits include improved bee gut health, enhanced food quality within the hive, and even reduced pathogens. Beekeepers can explore incorporating diluted EM solutions into hive sprays, feeders, and the surrounding apiary to create a supportive environment for their busy bees. Remember, consult with beekeeping experts before introducing new substances.
May Magic in Your Garden: Bloomtastic Fun for Everyone!
Hey there, green thumbs! May is here, and it's time to witness your garden explode with life! We're talking colourful blooms, happy veggies, and a backyard paradise just waiting to be explored. Get ready to get your hands dirty – May is your veggie patch's birthday! Sow all sorts of goodies directly outside, like carrots, lettuce, and spinach. Don't forget the summer stars – plant out courgettes and pumpkins for future feasts. Want a riot of colour? By the end of May (weather permitting), you can plant out summer bedding for a dazzling display. Hanging baskets and pots are also prime real estate for vibrant blooms! Stay tuned for more May garden tips from the Agriton UK crew. We'll help you keep your veggie patch happy, your lawn lush, and your green thumb thriving. Happy planting!
Bokashi Trials with Farmyard Manure
Bokashi, a method of treating manure with microorganisms, is attracting Scottish farmers due to its potential benefits. Bokashi promises to preserve valuable nutrients in manure, reducing reliance on synthetic fertilizers, while also significantly reducing methane and ammonia emissions for a more sustainable farm. Additionally, bokashi-treated manure is reportedly easier to handle and spread, saving time and effort, and may even lead to healthier crops and increased yields.
Beyond "Feeding the World": Rethinking Our Global Food System
Our current food system, while celebrating farmers for feeding the world, prioritizes cheap calories over true nourishment. This industrial approach has led to a limited variety in our diets, with just a handful of crops dominating our plates. The consequence? A system disconnected from consumer needs, with farmers struggling and consumers bombarded with unhealthy options. It's time to rethink how we grow and consume food.
Bokashi Bran: Unlocking the Secrets of Food Waste Composting with EM Technology
Do you ever feel guilty about tossing out food scraps? We've all been there! But what if you could turn those leftovers into magic for your garden? Bokashi composting is a superhero of waste reduction, and Bokashi bran is its secret weapon! This article will be your friendly guide to using Bokashi bran to transform your food scraps into nutrient-rich fertilizer. We'll break down the science, show you the benefits, and even offer tips for Bokashi composting success. Get ready to give your garden a boost and become a kitchen scrap superhero!
Reimagine Your Garden This Earth Day: Grow Food, Nurture Nature
This Earth Day, let's go beyond planting trees! Regenerative gardening creates a vibrant ecosystem in your backyard. Grow delicious food while nurturing nature with cover crops, no-till methods, diverse plant mixes, homemade compost, and native flowers to attract beneficial wildlife. It's a win-win for your harvest and the planet, one seed at a time.
My Window Seat Was a Dud, But This Trip to Okinawa Was Anything But!
Ever dream of being reincarnated as a bird for the ultimate window seat view? My recent trip to Okinawa, Japan, started with that very dream, but thick clouds had other plans. Luckily, the disappointment was quickly forgotten as I delved into the fascinating world of Effective Microorganisms (EM). From a hotel using EM-treated everything to a farm turning waste into nutrient-rich compost with EM's help, this trip was an eye-opening exploration of sustainability in action. Stay tuned for the full story, where I'll share the secrets of "circular farming" and my adventures on the Japanese mainland!