During the past twenty years new techniques of Integrated Crop management have been developed and chemical applications significantly reduced. This has culminated in a full organic system of production. Nicholas saw that this was the right way forward and with John’s full support, he achieved full Organic Status in 1999. John and Nicholas strongly believe in working with nature by studying the interaction of wildlife and particularly insects with the environment. Organic production is based on a healthy dynamic soil so that no “artificial” fertilisers, or herbicides are applied at Nichol Farm. Nicholas and John are convinced that the organic approach is in the interest of all creation.
Because of increasing specialisation requirements, Nicholas and John have slowly concentrated on producing the best apples and pears in the region. Although the number of varieties has somewhat contracted over the years they still produce a wide range of varieties for all seasons. Including Scarlet Pimpernel, Discovery, Katy, St Edmund Pippin, Charles Ross, Cox’s Orange Pippin, James Grieve, Bramley’s Seedling, Ergemont Russet, Norfolk Royal Russet, Gala Jonagold, Braeburn, Spartan and Red Pippin. Pears include Conference, Williams and Concorde.
For the long term sustainability of organic production consideration has been given to maximising the use of the whole crop. This made Nicholas realise that the production of single variety Organic apple juices would be the logical step, using that fruit not suited to fresh fruit sales. That has been achieved and the partnership has now supplied juices to Waitrose and over 80 outlets in West London including Harvey Nichols and a wide range of other consumer outlets, such as farm shops and farmers markets.
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