We at Avocado Adoption use as few pesticides as possible. When it does become necessary because, for example, insects have gotten into the trees that pose a threat to the health of the trees and the harvest, we look for environmentally friendly solutions.
The use of pesticides (chemical herbicides) is labelled by many researchers and scientists as negative for human and environmental health. Yet chemical pesticides such as the herbicide glysophate, for example, are still allowed within Europe. Brussels even wants to allow use of weedkiller 'glysophate' for 10 more years.
What benefits do we see on our land?
- You know it from vacations, those beautiful orchards in Spain with that nice looking tight surface. Completely clean of weeds. That's the first big difference with our orchard. The ground around our trees is covered with a green mat of grass and various types of weeds. A fairy-like and natural picture..
When pesticides are used, everything that would normally and naturally grow disappears from the soil. It can also cause soil and water pollution. - We are buzzing with bees, dragonflies, grasshoppers and all kinds of other insects. A second clear difference with land treated with chemical pesticides. This reduces biodiversity. It has harmful effects on bees and other pollinators.
- Our "wild campo cat" is always close to us when we are working in the fields and lies on the green carpet during his siesta. Healthy soil in other words! Animals instinctively seek out nice, natural places.
- The avocado trees are hanging earlier than average, already full of beautiful green avocados. By using environmentally friendly means, we promote a healthy ecosystem and increased biodiversity, protecting pollinators such as bees and other insects. They can do their job allowing the trees to produce abundantly. It also promotes soil quality and we conserve beneficial soil organisms and microorganisms. Healthy soils contribute to better nutrient uptake by trees and improved crop productivity.
- We ourselves can confidently spray the trees with environmentally friendly pesticides without a mouth mask or other protective clothing. So for the "working conditions of farm workers," healthier working conditions can be promoted by not working with pesticides.
- Health of the avocado eater: we can't substantiate it scientifically, but seeing for ourselves all that we named above, we dare to conclude that it is also better for human health to eat avocados that have not been treated with pesticides and are not hanging on trees that are on land sprayed with chemical pesticides.
Want to know more about how we care for our trees? Read more here.
Enjoying our avocados?
Order our healthy Hass avocados during the harvest months (December through March) via our webshop. Avocados are shipped to you directly from our land, without pesticides or party interference.
Adopting your own avocado tree is possible throughout the year, you will then receive fresh harvest Hass avocados during the harvest months. Read more about adopting your own avocado tree here.
