Deep Roots

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inputs produced within the system, with a few exceptions

for livestock feed and health, soil amendment application,

crop protection and product packaging.

An intensive organic vegetable production system

requires large amounts of compost for soil fertility. For this

reason, the family has invested in training resources and

infrastructure for the production of compost from waste

or biomass grown on the farm, using cattle manure, crop

residues and grasses as a basis, aided by leguminous plants

and various nutrient suppliers.

The water for agricultural production and livestock

consumption comes directly from the farm itself and is used

in a controlled manner. For crop irrigation, drip systems

and microsprinklers are used and for livestock there are

automatic waterers and controlled delivery applications.

The marketing of over 30 agricultural products is mainly

achieved through direct sales to consumers at a particular

market called ‘Feria Verde’, or the Green Farmer’s Market,

which takes place on Saturdays in an urban part of the

metropolitan area. A small portion of the products are sold

to suppliers of hotels and restaurants offering special menus.

Knowledge of farm management has been a major resource

contributing to the success of the family’s agricultural produc-

The family has invested in training resources and infrastructure for the

production of compost from waste or biomass grown on the farm

Image: R. Azofeifa

Eight of the Gomez Cordero family’s nine members are responsible for the administration, management and most of the labour on the Santa Cecilia organic farm

Image: R. Azofeifa

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