BIODIVERSITY AND THE ENVIRONMENT
The Arzagot farm enjoys a unique advantage in terms of biodiversity. Located in Vélez-Málaga, its agricultural management incorporates practices that promote the presence of species beneficial to crops and to the ecological balance. These practices enable the farm to operate in harmony with nature, promoting a more resilient and sustainable agricultural model.
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Uncultivated Areas and Wild Flora
Uncultivated areas serve as refuges for beneficial wildlife, providing shelter and food for various species. Wild vegetation is neither removed nor cleared, as it plays an essential role in attracting beneficial insects, such as ladybugs, which contribute to biological pest control.
In addition, before planting strawberries, flower beds are set up to attract pollinators and natural predators of pests. Among the species planted are alyssum, basil, marigold, fennel, and nasturtium—plants that attract wasps and bees and also serve as traps to keep aphids and other pests away from the main crops.
Wildlife on the Farm and Its Benefits
At the Arzagot farm, a wide variety of wildlife beneficial to agricultural production and to maintaining a balanced ecosystem has been observed: toads, bats, lizards and other reptiles, moles, praying mantises, ladybugs, bees, wasps, and other insects that help control the populations of mites and plant-damaging insects.
Bird Populations and Their Impact on Biodiversity
Birds play a vital role in the farm’s ecological balance. At Arzagot, no measures are taken to keep them away, allowing them to roam freely. Among the most common species are egrets, gray wagtails, and sparrows.
Using Mulch and Sustainable Alternatives to Plastic
One of the most notable practices at Arzagot is the elimination of plastic from agricultural production. Instead, they use mulch or reusable felt, which offers many advantages:
Maintains soil moisture and temperature, which optimizes water use.
Reducing weed growth without using herbicides.
Protects the fruit, which does not come into direct contact with the ground and stays cleaner.
Promotes the growth of beneficial fungi, which improve soil structure and facilitate nutrient uptake.
Greater comfort during harvest, 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 plant cover. This prevents soil and water pollution while promoting biodiversity in the agricultural ecosystem.
Preventive natural treatments: Natural solutions are applied to the soil and crops to limit the presence of pests and diseases without harming beneficial organisms. This helps maintain a healthy ecological balance and reduces the need for chemical treatments.
Diversity of Edible Flower Cultivars: At Arzagot, edible flowers are not grown as monocultures. The farm focuses on a wide variety of species, which attracts different pollinators and natural predators of pests, and helps create a more stable and resilient ecosystem.