I really like the idea of these systems and followed it for a number of years doing some of my own trials. But just cant see how the intensive input in terms of labour can stack up regarding $$ returns on this labour invested. Its also soo complicated making it difficult to see anyone but the dedicated adopting it and those who just don't need to gain a financial return from their time. I have enjoyed your content over the years and somewhat surprised to see you move away from a proven system agroforestry which has been practiced for generations to more syntrophic practices.
I hear ya. I think it really comes down to matching context and the right tools. Bigger sites need simpler systems and some mechanization while small sites can be really intense if desired. Mine is in the middle somewhere. Yes the labor is higher, but I get yields in several forms and I don't have to irrigate or fertilize(much) or herbicide my farm like most farms. Keep in mind, I'm growing pretty high value crops and propagation material(like grafted trees) for the most part. The low value stuff, I either consume or chop to benefit the trees.
Great video Mathew! I live in the US Virgin Islands. Could you recommend a good seed source, that would mail USPS Priority Mail. There's virtually nothing here. You're my #1 recommendation to my neighbors. I say watch as many What's Ripping Videos as you can, and do the work. Your a inspiration ! 👍🌱
Thank you, that's great to hear! The best seed source is your local surroundings. Look for the fast growing trees that come up after an area has been disturbed or after a large tree falls. For me it took a while to see where to get them and collect them. I don't usually order seeds online. For early species like cow pea and Jack Bean you can get those through my friends website which is Cody cove farm Nursery. I highly recommend watching some Scott Hall videos, I think his channel is called Syntropia
The prep is placing the chosen seeds in a cup. The implementation is pouring the cup out into a small divet in the soil and then covering it lightly. Or we use that planter that I showed in a previous video.
