We are also planting hundreds of trees every year in a bid to push the salt back underground, but not all our catchment neighbours are enthusiastic. As Perth expands the demand for small holdings has encouraged developers to buy large holdings and subdivide. Although many genuine urban escapees are keen arborealists, the speculators are reluctant to open wallets. We face all the usual pest and disease hassles which go with hydroponics, while recognising that good management is the most important factor in making our venture a commercial success. We are trying to make the operation chemical pesticide free, so we are returning to traditional sulphur sprays where possible.
Salt is an issue which has to be faced.
Granddaughter Kate Graham helping to sort the tomato crop. The cost of desalinating and pumping has yet to be evaluated. Tomatoes are the most salt-tolerant of vegetables, but growth rates are slowed once the TDS exceeds 1000ppm, and fruit size also appears to be affected. We are seeking other produce which can cope with our water, and which is saleable and profitable. The salt problem was never anticipated, and coping with this is taking time which should be used for crop care and the quiet observations so necessary to spot the pests before they exploit our distractions.