In recent years, organic farming has seen a surge in popularity as more farmers seek sustainable and chemical-free methods to cultivate their crops. However, making the transition from conventional to organic farming can be challenging without guidance and the right tools. This video series with Larry Stanislav, an experienced organic farmer from Nebraska, provides invaluable insights into the techniques, equipment, and field management practices essential to organic farming. Each video captures a unique aspect of Larry's approach, from soil preparation tools to crop rotation strategies, offering a hands-on guide for anyone looking to embrace organic methods.
An Introduction to Organic Farming with Larry Stanislav
In this introductory video, Larry shares his journey into organic farming and discusses the basics of setting up an Organic System Plan (OSP). His farm has been free of chemicals for decades, a legacy his father began in the early 1970s. Larry provides an overview of the considerations and challenges that come with managing an organic farm, emphasizing the importance of maintaining soil health without synthetic inputs.
Essential Tools for Organic Farming – The Regular Disc & Lely Roterra
Larry introduces the essential tools he uses on his organic farm, starting with the regular disc and Lely Roterra. He explains how these tools help manage soil structure and incorporate organic material into the ground. With the regular disc, he can handle crop residues and prepare the field for planting, while the Lely Roterra is ideal for fine-tuning the soil. This video highlights how conventional equipment can be adapted to meet organic farming needs.
The M&W Dyna Drive – A Key Tool for Soil Preparation
The M&W Dyna Drive, a European ground-driven rototiller, has become one of Larry’s favorite tools for soil management. In this video, he breaks down the unique design of the Dyna Drive, specifically its front spikes that help till the ground without relying on external power. Larry’s explanation offers a deeper understanding of how this tool supports sustainable soil management, especially useful for farmers interested in minimal disturbance practices.
Larry’s Blade Plow – Efficient Weed Control and Soil Conservation
In this video, Larry demonstrates his use of the Blade Plow, also known as a Noble Plow. This tool is key to his organic farming system because it undercuts the soil without fully turning it over, which minimizes soil disturbance and moisture loss. Larry explains how the Blade Plow’s design lifts and crumbles the soil, effectively cutting off weed roots without exposing the ground to erosion. The plow is especially useful for managing tough plants like alfalfa and maintaining soil structure. This video offers a practical look at how the Blade Plow helps balance soil health and weed control in organic fields.
A Tour of Larry’s Organic Fields
In this final video, Larry takes us on a tour of his fields to demonstrate his strip farming approach. He explains the advantages of his 72-foot-wide crop rows, allowing for optimal spacing and rotation of crops in line with organic standards. This layout not only helps with weed control but also promotes healthy soil and crop diversity. Larry’s field management showcases an effective, low-impact way to maintain productivity in organic farming.