Regenerative Trials Ludwig Farms
On-going soil re-mineralization trials on 3 acres in central NY, stacking functions of observing the effects different bio-stimulants and cover crop mixtures can have on nutrient availability as well providing proof-of-concept for agtech companies supplying their products for the trial. Bio-stimulants include worm castings and mycorhizzal extracts, micro algae, and fish manure extract. Cover crop mixtures include winter wheat, radish, and pea. Iterative soil testing and soil structure testing is being utilized to gather an effective set of data.
Consulting I am also providing my soil fertility and production management consulting to the Ludwig family as they begin their cut flower production journey in 2025.
Key Observation
Two soils are being observed: carbon-rich muck soil and brown, mineral-heavy soil. It will be interesting to see how the cover crops and soil biology respond the the bio-stimulants in the 21% organic matter of the muck soil, versus the 3.9% organic matter in the mineral soil come spring of 2025.
"We're excited to get our flowers going because of how much attention is paid to our soil and to also have the ability to tell a story from the beginning."
— Jim Ludwig