Common Questions

Getting Started

How long does certification take?

This can vary depending on what type of inputs you’ve used on your land and how recently. To certify, the NOP requires that no prohibited chemicals have been used on the plot for the previous 3 years.

What records do I need?

Records that certification agencies require can include a detailed breakdown of your Standard Operating Procedures (SOP), the inputs you use (foliar sprays, compost, OMRI approved fertilizers), and harvest/sales logs.

Can I use manure?

Yes, NOP standards require the compost is made from certain materials and reaches 130-170 degrees fahrenheit. Make sure to double check with your certifier.

Are greenhouses allowed?

Greenhouses are allowed, but there are specific rules for enclosed, containerized or hydroponic systems, make sure to check with your certifier.

Soil Management

How much compost do I need?

Start with 3-4 inches on poor soil, then add 1-2 inches yearly. That’s about 3.5 cubic yards per 1,000 square feet for each inch.

What cover crops work best?

Check out the cover crop section for more info as this varies depending on what your soil and crops need. Generally, mixes work better than monocrops for continued use or self seeding (think forage mixes).

Can I till the soil?

The less you open up your soil, the better. However, tillage is necessary for many crops and soil types, if you need to till you should be thinking of minimizing them time your soil goes without cover.

How often should I test soil?

Yearly soil testing is recommended, you should test every other year at the very least.

Pest Management

What stops aphids naturally?

Syrphid flies, soldier beetles, ground beetles, predatory mites, entomopathogenic fungi, garlic spray, neem oil are some organic ways. If they are in the flying, ‘nymph’ stage, sticky traps can also work.

How do I prevent fungal diseases?

Properly spacing plants is one of the best ways, crop rotations are another important method and thorough cleaning of equipment / storage spaces is key. Nematodes can also be used to control certain species of pathogenic fungi.

Do organic pesticides work?

Yes, but differently. They break down faster. They target specific pests. They need good timing. Use them with other methods.

What about deer and rabbits?

Fencing and dogs are the best way to prevent deer and rabbits from entering your garden space. For large fields, control is a bit more nuanced, you might need to fire off some warning shots.

Crop Management

When do I harvest garlic?

Watch the leaves, when 4-5 bottom leaves brown, its usually getting close. When this occurs it’s time to start checking your bulbs! You can do this by carefully removing some dirt from the top half of the bulb and look for clove divisions. You’ll want to see well defined cloves.

What spacing do organic crops need?

As much as you can, depending on crop type and desired yield. More space also allows for intercropping with another cash crop or cover.

Which varieties grow best organically?

All varieties will grow well organically! When you have high producing, biodynamic soil you can even try the varieties people have trouble with!

How do I water organically?

Watering with an organic mindset means watering in the morning or dusk, using the most efficient tools possible and with mulch or ground cover wherever possible.

Complete A-Z Glossary

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Phone: (530) 238-5357

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Email: contact@basalticfarms.com

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Farm: 641-200 Beck Elliot Ln, McArthur, CA 96056