Plasencia Tobacco Project
Advancing Organic Biology for a Sustainable Future
Project Information
Transitioning to Regenerative Agriculture: A New Chapter for Plasencia Tobacco Company
At Harrington’s Organic Land Care, we are excited to share our latest project: Plasencia Tobacco Company, the world’s largest premium tobacco grower, to regenerative agriculture. This shift aims to reduce farming costs, improve tobacco quality, and ensure long-term sustainability.
Project Overview
Initial Meeting: On April 15, our team met with Nestor Plasencia Sr., Nestor Plasencia Jr., and their staff to understand their operations and goals.
Key Challenges:
- Organic Tobacco: High labor and input costs, weed control, and soil function issues.
- Non-Organic Tobacco: Expensive herbicides, pesticides, and fertilizers, along with degraded soil biology.
Action Plan
Soil Testing: Establish baseline conditions for organic and non-organic soils using Haney Soil Tests and Soil Life (SFW) tests.
Plasencia Tobacco Company
Training and Equipment:
Implement Aqua Spy probes for efficient irrigation management.
Utilize no-till planters and diverse service cover crops.
Service Crops: Grow cover crops to enhance soil health, increase yields, and reduce chemical inputs.
Compost and Vermiculture Systems: Improve compost and vermicompost operations to prevent anaerobic conditions and enhance soil amendments.
Long-Term Goals
Mountain-Grown Tobacco: To Improve soil quality and water management at higher elevations with cover crops and no-till practices.
Cattle Management: To improve grazing practices and herd genetics for better sustainability and profitability.
SMART Project Goals:
Set up diverse field studies.
Reduce NPK fertilizers by 20% in the first year.
Develop integrated pest and plant management programs.
Train staff in microbiology evaluation through our Soil Life school.
This project marks a significant step towards sustainable farming for Plasencia Tobacco Company. With a dedicated 3-5 year plan, we aim to achieve self-sufficiency and true regenerative agriculture. Follow our journey as we implement these transformative practices.
This project marks a significant step towards sustainable farming for Plasencia Tobacco Company. With a dedicated 3-5 year plan, we aim to achieve self-sufficiency and true regenerative agriculture. Follow our journey as we implement these practices. T. Harrington
