I recently attended the Virginia Association of Biological Farmers Conference. Hundreds of small farmers, homesteaders and gardeners were in attendance. They represented a rich wealth of knowledge about organic and biological methods of agriculture. I always come away from that conference – and other farmer gatherings – with valuable new knowledge.
This got me thinking about how much I have learned from those who have come before me. Like Old Mr. Johnson who was my first boss. He owned an apple orchard. I worked for him when I was fourteen years old during the summer of 1963. My love for apple trees and apples began with him.
Beginning In 1975, when I first began to grow apple trees organically, I have been hungry for knowledge about Pomology, plant physiology, ecology, microbiology, and pre-industrial agriculture. I’ve learned by reading books that were written hundreds of years ago, and by reading books on contemporary agricultural subjects as well. I’ve also gained so much knowledge by talking to wise farmers and orchardists over the years. Since the 1970’s, I’ve also been researching how the ancient Greeks, Romans, Chinese, and our own Native Americans, grew and cared for fruit trees and shrubs.
I stand on the shoulders of giants. I am so grateful to those who have mentored me through their writing and shared experiences. And now, I have begun to pass on what I have learned about biological farming and orcharding with the next generation. I feel it is my moral responsibility to share my knowledge, as so many others have generously shared their knowledge with me.