Organic Farming Archives - Page 42 of 44

Ask Tom: Finding and Keeping Employees

by Tom Elmore | Feb 10, 2011 | Organic Farming

Dear Tom: How do you find and hire a good farm help? Thanks — Overworked in Grapevine Dear Overworked, We are spending a substantial amount of time putting our crew together this year. We normally need five people for two days a week. One worker is continuing on...

Ask Tom: Protecting Coldframes

by Tom Elmore | Nov 10, 2010 | Organic Farming

Dear Tom – I recall several on-line conversations last winter about protecting coldframes for winter weather. What steps do you suggest? Thanks. — Sarah from Asheville Dear Sarah – This is a good time of year to be finishing up coldframe preparations but our...

Ask Tom: Farmer Education

by Tom Elmore | Oct 10, 2010 | Organic Farming

Tom, I am interested in learning to be an organic farmer. I have had some international, organic farming experience in the past (~ 5 years ago) and would really like to make this a full time career for myself. Do you know of any programs that are available to receive...

Ask Tom: Start Up Costs

by Tom Elmore | Sep 10, 2010 | Organic Farming

Dear OGS – I intend to start a small farm operation in 2011. I am looking for ideas on the cost of equipment and supplies that I will need to get started as well as suggestions on how to finance them. Thanks. — Andi in Asheville Dear Andi – The approaches to...

Ask Tom: Lettuce Production

by Tom Elmore | Aug 3, 2010 | Organic Farming

Dear Tom, We usually grow lots of lettuce for market all summer long without any problems. Last year we started all our transplants under shady maple trees, and I had about 100% germination every time I seeded my transplants. I direct sow into Speedling 128’s...

Ask Tom: Walk-Behind Bush Hogs

by Tom Elmore | Jul 3, 2010 | Organic Farming

Hey Tom! A farm where I work is interested in chatting with someone about walk-behind bush hogs. Do you have any opinions on them? Thanks! — Beth Beth – As you may recall, I am a fan of walk-behind bush hogs. We have limited flat land on our farm so our...