Rotating Extension Article
By: Daniel E. Mullins
Extension Horticulture Agent
Interest in Organic Vegetable and Fruit Production Increasing
The production and
consumption of organically grown produce has been slower to catch on in
The word “Organic” refers to a specific method of producing and processing foods. Organic farming is defined as a production system that avoids or excludes the use of synthetically compounded fertilizers, pesticides and growth regulators. It relies upon crop rotations, crop residues, animal and green manures, legumes, mechanical cultivation and biological pest control to maintain productivity and control pests. Organic farmers use a combination of old and new technologies in an effort to balance the local ecosystem.
The “Certified Organic” program is administered by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services under Florida Statute 504.34.
Growers who grow and sell “Certified Organic” fruits and vegetables must meet certain standards. Following are some of the standards:
● The land will have no prohibited substances applied to it for at least three years before the harvest of organic produce.
● The use of sewage sludge is prohibited.
● Farmers and processors must be inspected annually be a certifying agency.
● Farmers are required to maintain a written organic management plan.
● Farmers and processors must keep detailed records of practices.
Over the past few months several individuals have expressed an interest in becoming organic growers. This is a big step for anyone who is accustomed to conventional methods. There are naturally many questions and concerns.
The grower’s perspective is much different than a consumer’s. While the consumer might ask why there isn’t plenty of locally grown organic produce, the grower finds the issue much more complex.
Expense is a concern, especially for the grower with only a few acres. A fee is charged by the certifying organization and gearing up for organic production might require different machinery and equipment.
Marketing is an equally important issue for potential producers. It’s the old chicken or egg principle – should I wait to consider growing organic produce until assured of a good market or should I speculate by growing the products in hopes of selling them at a profit?
Useful information about organic production and marketing is being developed at a rapid pace. The Florida Department of Agriculture maintains a web site on the subject at http://www.fl-ag.com/develop/organics.htm
A
The status of organic farming systems by states has been compiled by The Organic Farming Research Foundation. A copy may be obtained for a modest fee by calling 831-426-6606, by fax at 831-426-6670 or online at research@ofrf.org.
It will be interesting to see how the production, marketing and consumption of organic fruits and vegetables progresses over the next few years. And as always, the debate continues over the value of organic production versus conventional agriculture.
Extension Service programs are open to all people without regard to race, color, sex, age, handicap or national origin. The use of trade names in this article is solely for the purpose of providing specific information. It is not a guarantee, warranty, or endorsement of the product name(s) and does not signify that they are approved to the exclusion of others.