The Farm PRatice
Chemical-Free Farming
At Regal Farms, we are committed to growing our crops without synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, or herbicides. Instead, we use natural alternatives like compost, molasses, sugar cane, shredded paper, saw dust, cover crops, and beneficial insects to keep our plants healthy and productive.
Mushroom Cultivation
Our mushrooms are grown in a controlled environment using natural substrates. We produce a variety of mushrooms, including shiitake, oyster, and lion’s mane, each with unique health benefits and culinary uses. We hope to introduce button mushrooms in the near future.
Sustainability Efforts
Sustainability is at the heart of everything we do. We use drip irrigation and misting system to conserve water, plant cover crops to enrich the soil, and maintain natural habitats to support local wildlife. Our systems are automated with sensors that monitor the temperature and automatically mist the greenhouse and engage the extract fan and at certain temperature to ensure we maintain the carbon emissions (CO2) at an acceptable level.
Hygiene and Sanitation
Clean Environment: Regularly clean and sanitize the growing area to prevent contamination.
Personal Hygiene: Workers practice good personal hygiene, including washing hands before handling mushrooms or materials.
Protective Clothing: Use gloves, masks, and protective clothing to minimize the risk of contamination.
2. Proper Substrate Preparation
Sterilization: Sterilize the substrate to eliminate pathogens and pests.
Quality Control: Use high-quality, contaminant-free substrate materials.
3. Pest and Disease Management
Regular Monitoring: Frequently check for signs of pests and diseases.
Integrated Pest Management (IPM): Implement IPM practices to manage pests and diseases using biological, cultural, and mechanical methods rather than relying solely on chemicals.
4. Ventilation and Climate Control
Air Quality: Ensure proper ventilation to maintain good air quality and reduce the risk of mold and other contaminants.
Temperature and Humidity: Maintain optimal temperature and humidity levels for mushroom growth to prevent the development of harmful microorganisms.
5. Water Quality and Management
Clean Water: Use clean, portable water for all irrigation and misting.
Water Management: Avoid over-watering to prevent mold growth and substrate contamination.
6. Harvesting Practices
Clean Tools: Use sanitized tools for harvesting mushrooms.
Proper Handling: Handle mushrooms carefully to avoid bruising and contamination.
7. Post-Harvest Handling
Cooling: Quickly cool mushrooms after harvesting to extend shelf life and maintain quality.
Packaging: Use clean, bio-degradable food-grade packaging materials to prevent contamination.
8. Worker Safety and Training
Training: Provide comprehensive training for workers on hygiene, safety protocols, and proper handling techniques.
Health Monitoring: Regularly monitor the health of workers and ensure they are not working while ill.
9. Sustainable Practices
Waste Management: Implement proper waste disposal methods to minimize environmental impact.
Resource Efficiency: Use resources efficiently, such as water and energy, to reduce the ecological footprint of the farm.
10. Documentation and Traceability
Record Keeping: Maintain detailed records of all farming activities, including substrate preparation, pest control measures, and harvesting dates.
Traceability: Ensure that all mushrooms can be traced back to their source in case of contamination or quality issues.
By adhering to these healthy practices, Regal Farms can produce high-quality, safe mushrooms while maintaining a safe working environment and minimizing our environmental impact.
Our Practices
Regal Farms involves various healthy practices to ensure the safety of both the workers and the final product. Here are some essential healthy practices for mushroom farming.