From conserving the natural forests that surround us to adopting innovative, eco-friendly farming techniques, our approach prioritizes harmony between agriculture and the environment. At Sinde Farm, no macadamia plantings have involved cutting down any Virginia forests. Our macadamia fields were established over 50 years ago and have previously been used for crops like tobacco, soybeans, commercial maize, and seed maize.
With over 600 hives managed by a dedicated team in a separate apiary department, bees are an essential part of our farm’s success. These pollinators not only boost our macadamia yields but also support the broader ecosystem by pollinating the surrounding flora. By investing in the apiary, we ensure the health of both our orchards and the natural environment, reinforcing the crucial link between bees and sustainable agriculture.
Composting plays a pivotal role in our sustainable farming strategy. By turning farm waste into nutrient-rich compost, we reduce reliance on synthetic fertilizers and improve the quality of our soil. This process enhances soil structure, increases microbial activity, and helps the land retain moisture, resulting in healthier, more resilient trees that can thrive naturally.
Our use of cover cropping practices is central to building organic matter in the soil. Cover crops protect the land between macadamia trees, preventing erosion, enriching the soil, and promoting better moisture retention. This process creates an environment where our trees can develop strong roots, resist disease, and grow into robust, high-yielding plants, all while improving the overall ecosystem on the farm.
