BIODIVERSITY AND THE ENVIRONMENT
The Arzagot farm is in a privileged position when it comes to biodiversity. Located in Vélez-Málaga, its farm management incorporates practices that encourage the presence of species beneficial to crops and the ecological balance. These practices enable the farm to operate in harmony with nature, promoting a more resilient and sustainable agricultural model.
Certificates
Uncultivated areas and spontaneous flora
Uncultivated areas act as refuges for auxiliary fauna, providing shelter and food for various species. Spontaneous flora is neither eliminated nor cleared, as it plays an essential role in attracting beneficial insects, such as ladybugs, which contribute to the biological control of pests.
What’s more, before the strawberries are planted, flower strips are put in place to attract pollinators and natural pest predators. Among the species planted are alyssum, basil, tagetes, fennel and nasturtium – plants that attract wasps and bees, and also act as traps to keep aphids and other pests away from the main crops.
Wildlife on the farm and its benefits
On the Arzagot farm, a wide variety of fauna has been observed to benefit agricultural production and maintain a balanced ecosystem: toads, bats, lizards and other reptiles, moles, praying mantises, ladybugs, bees, wasps and other insects that regulate the population of mites and insects harmful to plants.
Birds and their impact on biodiversity
Birds play an essential role in the ecological balance of the farm. At Arzagot, no measures are taken to keep them away, allowing them to roam freely. Among the most common species are egrets, grey wagtails and sparrows.
Mulching and sustainable alternatives to plastic
One of the most remarkable practices at Arzagot is the abandonment of plastic in agricultural production. Instead, reusable mulch or felt is used, which has a number of advantages:
Maintains soil moisture and temperature, optimizing water use.
Reduces weed proliferation without the need for herbicides.
Fruit is protected from direct contact with the ground and stays cleaner.
Promotes the development of beneficial fungi, which improve soil structure and facilitate nutrient absorption.
Greater harvesting comfort, thanks to a softer surface for manual work.
Other measures to protect biodiversity
No use of herbicides: Instead of chemicals, weed management relies on techniques such as mulching and maintaining a vegetation cover. This avoids soil and water pollution, while promoting biodiversity in the agricultural ecosystem.
Natural preventive treatments: Natural solutions are applied to soil and crops to limit the presence of pests and diseases, without harming beneficial organisms. This preserves a healthy ecological balance and reduces the need for chemical treatments.
Diversity of edible flower crops: At Arzagot, edible flowers are not grown as monocultures. The focus is on a wide variety of species, attracting different pollinators and natural predators of pests, and helping to create a more stable and resilient ecosystem.
