AGRICULTURE
Delia and her partner Florian are running the agricultural sector of Vinha Velha.
Since 2015 they have gradually expanded the agricultural and horticultural area of the farm.
Hubert founded the farm and layed down the vision and fundamentals for Vinha Velha. With the same commitment and idealism as her father, Delia takes care of the legacy Hubert left to produce sustainable and organic certified vegetables with open pollinating varieties.
Our concept includes a closed Farm Cycle:
Vegetable growing
Today, around 1.5 hectares of land are used for growing vegetables and fruit for own use and to supply the farm's shop and local markets.
A variety of outdoor vegetable crops are being grown from seeds throughout the year.
Vinha Velha collaborates with Sementes Vivas (www.sementesvivas.pt) an organically certified seed production company. A part of the land is being used to multiplicate seeds.
Animals
Our animals are being kept according to bio-dynamic principles, in a way that benefits the animals and the soil.
Currently we keep 85 chickens in mobile chicken homes.
Our two dairy cows are milked by hand. The various products made from milk, such as yogurt and curd cheese, are very much appreciated.
A mother-bound animal husbandry is important to us, the animals stay together for the first 5 months at least.
Our 35 sheep graze the areas in planned rotating cycles
The animals fertilize the soil by providing the manure for our compost and are used to keep the forestry areas clean, which also helps to reduce the risk of fire
The meat that is being consumed is coming exclusively from our own animals
Since 2019 honey bees are being kept in Vinha Velha. Apart from producing honey they are essential for pollinating the plants.
Forest
Today, the forest area covers over 100 hectares. Florian is responsible for the maintenance and further development.
The aim is to continue to diversify the existing tree and plant population. Adding in new drought resistent species is one of the concrete objectives. The trees will provide shadow and attract water for smaller native plants to grow underneath them.
This way we try to create a more resillient landscape to face the challenge of the recurring drought in the area.
Restore Nature Foundation
Vinha Velha is very well suited for pedagogical working projects. A farm internship such as voluntary work is possible, minimum 1 month.
