The Odlingsakademien organized an inspiring study visit at Bolsgården in Skärbäck at the end of August, in the southwestern part of Vetlanda municipality, where Jorge and his family cultivate on the two-hectare farm.
Bolsgården is certified for organic farming and is located on old lake bottom, with fertile soil and good conditions for cultivation. Bolsgården has been engaged in local and small-scale vegetable farming for several years and was also one of Sweden's first community-supported agriculture. Previously, the family delivered vegetable boxes through the Cooperative Nybrukarna, while the focus today is primarily on seed production. Bolsgården is one of NordFrös larger seed growers.
During the study visit, participants were able to tour the farm and learn about Jorge's experiences, cultivation methods, and many concrete tips to take home to their own gardening.
Among other things, Jorge highlighted buckwheat as a favorite green manure crop, especially in places where weeds have taken over. Buckwheat grows quickly and contributes a lot of organic material to the soil. Participants also received tips on edamame beans, including the variety Summer Shell, which is relatively easy to grow and can provide an exciting variation in the kitchen garden. The farm also grows its own corn, which is used for baking bread, among other things. Jorge also advocated for growing your own asparagus, as freshly harvested asparagus, according to him, is something entirely different from what you buy in stores. Among the asparagus varieties he recommended were Primaverde and Rambo. The farm also has over 60 fruit trees and a large variety of berries, flowers, and other crops.
An important part of the visit was about the significance that both small and large farms can have for a more sustainable future. As Jorge expressed it:
-We can have a positive impact on our surroundings.
The visit to Bolsgården offered a nice mix of practical gardening knowledge, inspiration, and discussions on how cultivation, seed production, and sustainability can go hand in hand.
