Work continues on the Upper Farm, which includes our orchard and herb garden. In the orchard, home to more than 30 varieties of fruit and nut trees, we have begun implementing a natural, systems-based approach to pest, disease, and weed management. This includes testing organic liquid humus, or compost, from a local farm to fertilize our trees and help treat pests such as aphids. The goal is to give our young trees the macro and micronutrients they need to produce nutritious, delicious food for decades to come, while also building healthy, fertile soil.

In the coming weeks, we will begin leveling the ground at the future site of our vegetable garden. From there, we will construct permanent raised beds and prepare for the exciting next step: planting our first vegetables in September. The garden will feature a wide variety of crops, including broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, radishes, turnips, and much more. By the time our first cohort of students arrives in January, Ziva’s Farm will be fully operational.

Ziva’s Farm will not only supply fresh, delicious produce to the GCI by JNF campus; it will also serve as the center of agricultural education for our students and guests. Students will learn the fundamentals of where our food comes from through a four-week, hands-on course on the farm. They will explore the history and culture of agriculture in our region, follow the lifecycle of crops from seed to plate, and learn culinary techniques that showcase these remarkable ingredients.