This page outlines how the farm and nursery operate day to day. It is not a set of ideals or targets. It is a description of current practice, shaped by the land, the climate, and the limits of running a small farm.
Soil and Compost
Soil health underpins everything grown here.
We bring in organic compost from Farm to Garden Organics in Saanich. Their compost is produced from regionally collected organic material and is certified for organic use. It is applied to gardens, stock beds, and growing areas as needed to improve structure, fertility, and moisture retention.
Composting also happens on site at a smaller scale. Plant material and organic waste generated on the farm is returned to the soil wherever practical.
Water Management
Rainfall across the property naturally drains toward a pond, which provides water for irrigation when required.
Irrigation is used sparingly and adjusted seasonally. The aim is to support plant establishment and health without overuse or dependence on constant watering.
Growing Media
All nursery plants are grown in peat free growing media.
The mix is custom blended by a local supplier and reviewed regularly based on plant performance. The focus is on strong root development, drainage, and long term plant health rather than fast, forced growth.
Pollinators, Insects, and Birds
No pesticides or neonicotinoids are used anywhere on the property.
Honey bees are kept on site and contribute to pollination across the orchard, gardens, and nursery. Native bees, hoverflies, butterflies, and other insects are also present throughout the growing season.
The farm supports a wide range of bird life, which is consistently active across pasture, orchard, hedgerows, and garden areas. Birds are a visible part of the farm ecosystem and contribute to overall balance through predation and seed movement.
Animals and Land Management
Sheep graze the meadows during the growing season and play a role in managing grass growth and returning nutrients to the soil.
Chickens move through orchard and garden areas as conditions allow. Their role is supplemental rather than intensive and changes with season and workload.
Land use is adjusted gradually as fencing, planting, and infrastructure develop. Rest periods for pasture are factored in wherever possible.
Materials and Waste
Pots and trays are reused for as long as they remain functional. Customers are welcome to return containers for reuse.
Materials are selected for durability and practicality. Waste is kept to a minimum. Organic material is composted where appropriate and returned to the soil.
Ongoing Practice
How the farm is managed is not fixed.
Practices change as conditions change, as experience grows, and as the land responds. Decisions are made based on observation, capacity, and long term viability rather than adherence to a predefined framework.
This is working land. The goal is to keep it productive, functional, and healthy over time.