SEED PRODUCTION
At the Organic Farm School, seed production is not just about cultivation, harvesting and processing; it's a dynamic learning experience interlinking practical farming techniques, business insight, and innovative research. Since 2017, we've been supplying organic vegetable and flower seeds to commercial contractors while concurrently educating our students on the intricate processes of seed production. Our commitment to advancement led us to embark on research trials, including a recent WSARE grant project, partnering with Organic Seed Alliance comparing the effects of 30% shade cloth versus full sun on tomato seed yields. Surprisingly, findings revealed minimal disparities in environmental conditions between the shaded and full-sun areas, with consistent tomato fruit size and weight despite fluctuations in seed metrics over the season. These insights not only inform our agricultural practices but also enrich our curriculum, providing students with firsthand experience in sustainable, organic seed production methods and the complexities of agricultural research.
