Cascina degli Ulivi - Azienda Biodinamica

l'agricoltura biodinamica

Cereals

We cultivate very ancient varieties of cereals that haven’t been over-selected or hybridated. They are therefore more apt to human nutrition and are tolerated even by those people who are intolerant to the gluten contained in conventional grains.
Our cereals grow very tall, adapt well to poor soils and do not need fertilisation.

In order to increase even more their nutritional value, we have decided to hand-reap. After reaping, the spikes are tied in sheaves and let ripen for at least two months under the patios and then threshed with a still thresher.
We grow Verna, Gambo di Ferro, Gentilrosso or Tosella, Autonomia and Frassineto varieties of wheat.

We also grow a special variety of spelt called Monococcum spelt (bot. Spelta minore). This grain has a two-row ear and was almost extinct. It has been brought back in use during the Eighties in Provence by a good-willed farmer and a botanist. Monococcum spelt is a precious cereal, with low yields but great adaptability and excellent nutritional and gastronomic value.

Vegetable garden and orchard

We have about 1 hectare dedicated to growing vegetables using biodynamic agriculture. We supply vegetables to the restaurant of our agriturismo as well as to the people who work with us and their families. We also do weekly deliveries to a number of families in Genoa.

We have various fruit trees, mainly peach and apple of ancient varieties typical of our mountains such as the Carla, Calvilla Bianca, Campanina, Lavina, Astracan and others.

Animal-breeding

Beside having a pet donkey and a horse, we breed poultry (chickens and ducks) that supply our restaurant.

We also have cattle, both for milk and meat. They live and graze on the mountains nearby and supply us with excellent cheeses and tender meat.