Sustainability at Blickling Estate
Thursday, May 5th, 2011We practise integrated pest management where sprays are only applied when necessary, i.e. when hot and humid conditions favour fungal disease.
We do not use any insecticides but try to encourage natural predators in and around the vineyard such as birds and beneficial insects.
We have vegetation growing in the spaces between rows which benefits the vines and prevents soil erosion.
We apply compost that is produced on the farm from organic matter, thus leaving a very small carbon footprint. In fact, we are storing carbon by increasing the organic matter of the soil. This is further supported by mulching the growth between the rows.
We use natural, organic sprays to prevent disease such as seaweed concentrate and microbial inoculants whenever possible.
We have, and protect areas of remnant bushland (approximately 30% of the farm area) for native flora and fauna.
We have started to use light weight bottles which use less energy and raw materials to produce and use less energy to transport.
Additionally, our vineyards are NOT located near highways or dense traffic so are not tainted by pollution. We are located in the New England Tablelands where our vines enjoy clean Australian country air.
