I had the opportunity to visit Sri Lanka: the land of Ceylon and tea and they took me on a tour of a certified biodynamic and organic farm outside of Dambulla growing our lemongrass!
Biodynamic farming: is a harmonized farming process that ensures the soil is fertile with living microorganisms. It recognizes the ‘spirit in nature’ and is a thoughtful farming method ensuring that every input is maintained in harmony and balance with the natural world.
The compost/fertilizer that is added to the land requires weeks of preparation and fermentation before it is ready to be used. The crops are managed in a holistic and dynamic way and there is a focus on listening to the land as it evolves.
This particular plantation was incredibly diverse! Planted on the acreage were:
- Jackfruit
- Mango
- Cinnamon
- Anona
- Teak
- Passion fruit
- Pomegranate
- Chilli pepper
- Curry leaf
- Papaya
- Ginger
- Lemon
- Guava
- Lemongrass
- Cashew
- Banana
- Coconut
- Palm tree and more!
This is the farm where we source our organic lemongrass that we use in our best selling Raspberry Lemonade kombucha. Not only did I connect with the land here, but the women who pick the lemongrass for us with their bare hands.
This growing and farming method is completely different than what you see in North America today- where you often find acres of the same plant (monocrop) promoting the growth of one single species. You see this commonly with wheat, corn and soy. A permaculture method however, uses companion planting, and a diversity of species to ensure pest control is natural, which is how they can be certified organic and biodynamic since they aren't spraying any harmful pesticides.