Q: Can an organic certified farm spray?
A: ABSOLUTELY!!
Spraying is a method of applying a product, the real question is, what is the product? It is a very common misconception that organic farms do not spray. This is false. In fact, I think spraying micronutrients is an excellent idea.
Organic certified farms can only apply organic approved products to their trees or produce. The methods they use may be pumped through the irrigation system, spread with a spreader (like compost), or sprayed though a machine that sprays a fine mist. You can even use a crop duster, again, you just need to use an organic approved product, following application guidelines. The product will have application rate requirements and dilution rates. Generally, organic spray applications are heavily diluted with water.
The National Organic Program (USDA NOP) sets the rules for what is considered organic in the US. Other organizations (OMRI, CDFA, WSDA) provide a service to review products and confirm they follow NOP requirements.
Why spray? It is the most efficient means to move a nutrient into the tree, through the stomata in the leaves. Stomata are tiny pores or openings found on the surface of leaves, which allow for the exchange of gases like carbon dioxide and oxygen between the plant and its environment. Every year I spray boron, a natural element found in water and soil. My soil and water lack sufficient boron for almonds. Boron is necessary for the development and stability of cell walls, which significantly impacts plant growth, pollination, nut development, and the transport of sugars throughout the plant; essentially, it helps maintain the structural integrity of plant tissues and facilitates proper cell division and elongation.
By spraying the nutrient directly on the leaves, the farmer uses less product and achieves better results.
Almonds may not be cheap, but they are cheaper than the doctor or hospital. Eat well, live well, and support your organic famer.
You can buy unpasteurized raw almonds and almond butter directly from the California farmer at Capay Hills Orchard. Order off the website, www.chorganicalmonds.com or by calling or texting 530-507-8222. Talk or text directly with the farmer, Brian Paddock Alternatively email capayhillsorchard@gmail.com Please share this post with your friends.
Capay Hills Orchard is a small family farm growing the best raw almonds, raw almond butter and smoked almonds. Capay Hills Orchard is Veteran owned, Bee Friendly certified, and of-course Certified Organic using Regenerative farming practices.
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