Join Felipe Amato and the Hof vErde team for a comprehensive 5-day introductory workshop in southern Germany, immersing participants in the principles and practices of syntropic farming in temperate climates. The workshop features morning theoretical lessons followed by practical hands-on activities in the afternoon, ensuring a balanced learning experience. Felipe will conduct the course in English, providing translations for plant names and technical terms as needed.

Syntropic farming involves systems inspired by local ecosystems, aiming to sustainably produce food, timber, fiber, and more. These systems mimic natural forests with high diversity and density, enabling continuous crop harvesting and promoting healthy, resilient soils with minimal external inputs.

Participants will explore various aspects of syntropic farming, including the history, principles, establishment, and management of these systems. They will learn to integrate farming practices with natural patterns like sunlight, wind, and local flora, and to plan plant consortia suitable for different soil types. Additionally, topics include value-added product planning, stratification of plant behavior, natural succession, mulching techniques for soil health, and practical planting implementation.

Course Structure:

• Day 1: Introduction to syntropic farming, soil production processes in nature, and historical agricultural practices.

• Days 2-3: Natural succession, stratification, systems of accumulation and abundance, and their application in agriculture.

• Day 4: Ecological interactions, ecophysiological functions, pollination, seed dispersal, pest and disease management.

• Day 5: Practical design exercises focused on field application.

This workshop at Hof vErde offers a unique opportunity to learn at the forefront of syntropic farming research, focusing on sustainable fruit, nut, and berry systems in temperate climates. Join us to explore how syntropic farming harmonizes agriculture with natural ecosystems!