WINTER THINKING Farmlands has experts in every field, within its own people and through its Partners. Here, three of them share advice on how best to use that winter ‘thinking time’ and how to ensure everyone stays safe.
LAND USE OPTIONS
Diversification need not mean a total overhaul of your farming system. It could be as simple as a change in variety of your current crop, different arable crops, vegetables or maybe a new variety of pipfruit.
Gaz Ingram Farmlands Technical Leader, Organics Winter is the time when we reflect on the year gone and probably give ourselves a congratulatory pat on the back. Could things have been done differently though and what lessons can we take from the past growing season? Some of the things to take note of are changes to what’s going on locally as well as changes in industry thinking and the crops that are in demand. Another aspect to look at is how they are being grown. Is a particular system or choice of inputs being used? There are options to change your footprint on the planet, either through new crop choices or different choices about how we produce them. • Should we decrease production to lower inputs and cost?
If your farm has been in cropping and livestock for generations, how about a few hectares of horticulture? Or maybe your local restaurant has commented that they always need fresh local produce? There are geographical and climatic reasons why everything doesn’t grow everywhere but be curious, ask why. Diversification can also mean expanding your own skillset or taking the leap and trying something new, which can be daunting yet exhilarating at the same time. We all have the power to dream about the what-ifs but the magic happens when you take the plunge and consider the possibilities. Involve others in your thinking – they will challenge you into getting the most from the opportunity and growing the business.
• Could I try a different fertiliser programme, with different testing methods?
Fast-forward to the same conversation that future generations may have about the property and be proud to share the tale of change that you made happen.
• Look over the fence now and then – what did your neighbours grow in their back paddock? Did it work for them? Can you do that too?
Talk to your local Farmlands team. Our size and diversity means we have the power of collective knowledge for you to tap into and harness.
24 | THE FARMLANDER
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