On Friday, April 26 2024, the Prekmurje Model Farm organized an expert excursion to see an example of good practice, to the organic farming pioneer, the Pri Baronu farm. It is a farm that has solid roots as the first family in the Štajerska region to engage in organic farming. Organic farmers, members of the association of herbalists and members of the association of gardeners were invited to a professional excursion.

The farm is located on Pohorje, at an altitude of 700 meters. Mr. Uranjek, the owner of the farm, showed us the entire farm, including a permaculture garden, an herb garden and animals grazing freely on the Pohorje plateau. After the tour of the farm, we listened to the presentation of the history of the creation of the farm, all the way to its current operation, including what they do, how everyday life takes place on the farm, the importance of the ecological certificate, the importance of cooperation with local providers and the types of processing of fruits, vegetables and herbs that they carry out on the farm.

A very pleasant and relaxing discussion developed.

Particular emphasis was placed on experiences of how to live, garden and farm by producing less waste. Mr. Uranjek shared his strategies and practices to reduce waste on the farm, including the use of composting. He emphasized the importance of compost as a natural fertilizer and soil improver, and its role in the circulation of nutrients in the farm ecosystem.

The visit ended with culinary pampering, where we enjoyed the “seasonal menu” and tasted homemade syrups.

The participants of the professional excursion gathered a lot of new ideas and impressions.

The Prekmurje Model Farm strives to find examples of good practice, such as the Pri Baronu organic farm, to try to bring organic and sustainable farming and gardening closer to the widest possible circle of people. Such visits are crucial to the exchange of knowledge and experience, and to the promotion of sustainable practices in agriculture and horticulture.