Composting in Cherry Orchards

Cherry Orchards are using composting in their orchards to provide better soil, and better returns on investment.

Mike Omeg from Omeg Orchards said they’ve been composting for five years and that, “By using compost we actually improve the soil and as a consequence, our trees are healthier and produce us more valuable crop and that contributes to our profitability as farmers.”

Omeg imports compost from Portland, but adds ingredients to it that maximize its effectiveness.

There is an initial investment and Omeg noted that, “It is risky, it is scary to be spending that kind of money, the return that we’re making makes it well worth that investment. So the dollars are there and people need to just give it a try.”

Omeg suggested starting small so that any potential bugs could be worked out.

If you have a story idea for the Washington Ag Network, call (590) 547-1618, or e-mail krounce@cherrycreekradio.com.