AGROFORESTRY IN ALMOND ORCHARD

WHO

Christos Kontomanos &
Franziska Felger

LOCATION

Nessonas, Larissa, Greece

DATE OF CONVERSION

25 - 26th of November 2021

KEY DATA

Land size: 1,6 ha
Annual Rainfall: 500mm
Soil: Silt Clay, compacted, very poor in organic matter
Existing cultivation on the site: almond monoculture
Other elements in the farm: mushroom production, tree, bushes and aquatic plant nursery, cosmetics and transformed products production, poultry

Main crop in the area: almonds, walnuts, wheat
Area: agricultural
Products: Vegetable baskets, Cosmetics, beer, jams
Market: Locals, expanding community in Greece

THE FARM - THE PEOPLE - THE AREA

Christos Kontomanos joined the cob.gr organization that was initiated by his father 20 years ago, after having finished his agronomy degree, bringing in the farming operation to the project. The organization is working since 20 years on natural building techniques with many experimental buildings and DIY applications on site which attract a broad audience. Now Christos is teaching regenerative farming all over Greece, which greatly increases the impact of this pilot farm. Further with the production they sell, they reach a broad audience of conscious consumers. The area is characterized by depleted soils due to intensive cotton cultivation which also had a very negative impact on the water table.

THE TRANSITION IN DETAIL

The almond orchard will be diversified and transformed into a successional agroforestry operation including market gardens, fruit trees and bushes, grazing poultry, as well as support species. The agroforestry products will be commercialized primarily in the local area. One of the main focus is to increase soil organic matter as to reduce water needs. We will achieve this by using compost tea, effective micro-organisms, and other amendments as to boost soils fertility. Soil health will be reflected on nutrient dense food production.

THE DESIGN IN DEPTH

FIND THE FARM

Arrange a visit to the farm to learn more about how to convert your own farm, or to purchase products from them.

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Address: Nessonas, Larissa, Greece
4h north of Athens