Farm For Oils


Join Country Life in October for a two-day workshop on farming with indigenous plants for the extraction of oils and essences

Climate change has resulted in small as well as large-scale farmers becoming interested in alternative farming methods. Farming with plant species endemic to South Africa for the extraction of oils and essences for medicinal, culinary and cosmetic use is a viable option for our varied regional climatic and soil conditions.    

Country Life’s workshop will cover a variety of topics, such as soil analysis and organic soil preparation, essential oils farming (learn about pests, irrigation and manpower requirements), successful exporting practices, etc.  

The registration fee includes superb cuisine to be enjoyed at Clouds Estate (vegetarians catered for on request). Accommodation at reduced rates is available for participants at Clouds Estate (Christo Biggs, 021 885 1819) and self-catering accommodation at Rockhaven Farm (Andrew Brown, 082 568 1804).


Programme

Day 1:  Lectures by soil scientist Bennie Diedericks and Liz Eglington from Blue Mountain Organics. General introduction to essential oil plants and viable organic farming of oils by Rockhaven’s Andrew Brown, and talk about indigenous medicines and traditional Bushmen cures by self-taught botanist Jaap Moses.

Day 2: Talks by Juliana Meredith on plant remedies and their application, SANBI botanist Phakamani Xaba, and a lecturer in the UCT School of Management Studies on marketing of the finished product.

Day 3:  Optional visits in own transport to Rockhaven Farm in Porterville or to Juliana’s Boutique in Riebeek Kasteel.

Dates: 14 – 15 October & 16th (optional field trip)  
Max participants: 40
Venue: Clouds Estate, Helshoogte Road, Banhoek, Stellenbosch  
Fee: R1 950

*Read our feature 'In Essence' for more information


UPCOMING WORKSHOP

Farming With Waterfowl
Learn how geese, ducks and quackers can provide a sustainable income, control pests and become a fascinating hobby for country or city folk.
Date: 4 November   
Max participants: 40    
Fee: R860   
Venue: Vergenoegd Wine Estate, Route R102, Stellenbosch

To Book for Workshops

Phone Mandy 031 910 5773 or email her on mandya@dbn.caxton.co.za

Bookings will only be confirmed on receipt of proof of payment. No refunds will be made on bookings. Country Life reserves the right to cancel a course and will not be liable for the reimbursement of any travel accommodation or associated costs.