Does Organic Mean No Spray No Way – Going Beyond the No Spray Myth

Does Organic Mean No Spray, No Way. Going Beyond the No Spray Myth.

A few weeks ago, I created an Instagram reel after spraying our Pinot Noir vines. The reel seemed to be appreciated and generated some truly engaging dialogue among our community. Many reached out, expressing how they felt informed because they had always associated “organic” with “no spray.”

It’s moments like these that remind me of the importance of the discussions we have about our food and its journey from the soil to our plates. Today, I want to delve deeper into this topic, sharing with you some of the nuances of organic farming.

Chad wrapping up spraying the Pinot Noir and recording a quick Instagram reel to share some insights on Organic sprays.

A Lesson from the Past

Firstly, let’s take a step back in time. The 1800s brought us the story of a creative farmer, one who was irked by passersby munching on his grapes. Instead of shooing them away, he sprayed a concoction onto the grapes. Not only did this deter snackers, but it also serendipitously kept mildew at bay. This innovative solution is known today as the Bordeaux solution. Right from its inception, this organic fungicide proves that being organic doesn’t always mean avoiding sprays; it means being selective and purposeful with them.

The Organic Farming Landscape

Now, let’s be clear. Organic doesn’t mean no sprays. It signifies a commitment to using natural sprays. When we talk about large crop blocks of the same species, it’s almost an open invitation for pests and diseases. Such uniformity in planting creates a playground for specific pests, making some form of protection indispensable.

However, the magic of organic farming is in the substances used for this protection. Derived from nature, they can be less harsh on the environment, friendlier to beneficial insects, and fit seamlessly into the ecological balance we aim to achieve on our farm.

Why We Choose Organic

You may ponder, “If we’re still spraying, why go organic?” The answer lies in the essence of organic farming. Organic is more than a method; it’s a philosophy. It’s about staying true to natural processes, respecting the environment, and ensuring the food we cultivate is as pure and wholesome as nature intended. It’s not just about what we avoid (synthetic pesticides) but what we embrace (natural, sustainable solutions).

Jeana and Chad are excited to get their Pinot Noir vineyard (pictured) into the Sustainable WA program this year (pending) and then pursue Organic certification.

Wrapping Up

So, the next time someone mentions organic and envisions a spray-free utopia, share a bit of this insight. Organic means being innovative, eco-friendly, and, most importantly, ensuring a harmonious balance with Mother Nature. As always, my heartfelt thanks go out to each of you for supporting small farms and staying curious about the food you enjoy.

Cheers to summer and our beautiful Lake Chelan. Lets do all we can to keep it clean.

Stay informed, stay healthy, and see you in the next post!

– Chad