This is by no means a fad for us; the estate has been devoted to biological agriculture from the very beginning. The estate is in its second year of conversion. If I were to use a "biodynamic" expression, I would present myself as a "nature assistant". One shouldn't force things, but instead accompany them through the cycles intended by nature. One can tame nature, but should never try to dominate it. If one can accept that, then one can appreciate that science and modern chemistry cannot find a solution to every problem.         I am trying to revert to a simpler agriculture, using a basic range of products which are easier for the trees to absorb. We have been too quick to forget the common sense and practices which were developed by our elders!

The basis of my philosophy is the notion of RESPECT.

Respecting nature and the trees which produce the fruit

Respecting the customers who choose our products

A living soil is the basis for growing healthy trees, and therefore:

- We do not use any chemical fertilizers on our estate, so as not to force natural growth cycles. We favour horse manure, green fertilizers, wood chips and foliage fertilisation. - We do not use herbicide as grass isn't an enemy to olive trees. Grass provides a refuge for a complex structure of organisms, and it also helps the ground to breathe.

- We do not use insecticides so as not to kill any connected species or disturb the natural food chain. Instead we use repellent products such as clay, pine sap or hive dross. - We do not use any systemic products, which travel from the roots to the leaves by penetrating the sap. We favour external products, even though they are washed away by water.

Biological agriculture is a sustainable production method. As far as olive trees go, there are alternatives to chemical products, and customers should demand their usage as standard. This kind of production is still more costly, but I am not willing to compromise the health of my customers or that of nature. Sometimes this ethic forces me to be even stricter than the standards set by bio-agricultural guidelines.