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PROJECTS
We try to share the blessing of this place in various ways.
We are always happy to introduce people to horses or to pass on what we are learning about vegetables, and about living on and with the land.
We also love to experiment with different crops and to share our successes and failures.
MICROFARMING
Since 2011 we have been inviting others interested in growing food for their own use or as a business to cultivate sections of our land.
At present, there are three microfarmers growing garlic and vegetables, and keeping bee colonies at Hillesum Farm.
For 2012 we invite others to become part of our small community. Our dream is to bring together a group of people who will be respectful stewards of this land, and who want to share their love of growing, their curiosity and their expertise with like-minded individuals.
Whether you are a new farmer or someone just wanting to "eat local," we are happy to provide you with up to one acre (for the first year) to grow your crops. There is no charge, but you will be expected to make your own arrangements for preparing the land and keeping it maintained and in good condition. No chemical fertilizers or pesticides are permitted.
If you would like to join us in growing on and with the land, please get in touch and tell us about your vision. |
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styrian pumpkin
In 2011 we experimented with Styrian Pumpkins. These have hulless seeds which can be cold pressed into a very healthy and delicious oil (the nutty flavour is fabulous). Next year we plan to increase production and try making oil.
THE VINEYARD
In 2007 we plowed up part of a hay field to make room for an unlikely new venture: a vineyard. The top of the Niagara Escarpment is not a great site, it is too cold for most of the standard varieties of wine grapes such as Chardonnay.
However, we wanted to see for ourselves. Four types of root stocks were planted (two white, two red), a total of 200 vines.
The reds are doing quite well, the whites less so.
While there is no denying that we all look forward to that day when we pour the first glass of Hillesum Farm Organic wine, we know it is a long way until then. So far we have shared many of the grapes with the birds and have made "drunken grape" jelly.
If you are a patient person and would like to resrve a bottle of wine now, please
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