Implementing Technology for Farm Growth: A Conversation with Steve Haddock of Choice Farms

Discover the inspiring journey of Steve Haddock, a seasoned expert who boldly shifted from industrial resin flooring to pioneering sustainable agriculture at Choice Farms. In this exclusive webinar, Steve shares his profound insights into the world of regenerative farming, where he combines modern technology with time-tested agricultural practices to cultivate Manuka, lavender, and avocados. Learn how his passion for biodiversity and soil health has transformed his farm into a model of environmental stewardship, offering not just food, but a vision for the future of farming.

Join us as we delve into Steve’s unique approach to farming, where he leverages cutting-edge tools like the F-750 Avocado Quality Meter to ensure the highest produce quality standards. Whether you’re a seasoned farmer, a tech enthusiast, or simply curious about sustainable agriculture, this webinar provides valuable insights and practical tips you won’t want to miss. Don’t just take our word for it—watch the full webinar and be inspired by Steve’s dedication to growing clean, healthy food while preserving the environment for future generations.

Galen kicks off the conversation by introducing Steve Haddock, who spent 35 years in the industrial resin flooring business before making a significant shift to agriculture. Now at the helm of Choice Farms in South Auckland, Steve is focusing on cultivating Manuka, lavender, and avocados, with a strong emphasis on biodiversity and soil health.

Galen: “After 35 years in the industrial resin flooring business, what inspired you to shift your focus to agriculture, and what has this transition been like for you personally and professionally?”

Steve: Steve reflects on his transition, attributing his shift to a longstanding interest in nature. He describes how his rural upbringing and passion for plants drove him to explore agriculture. The move has been seamless for Steve, driven by his curiosity and desire to engage in something new and challenging.

The Choice of Crops: Manuka, Lavender, and Avocados

Galen: “Why did you choose to focus on Manuka, lavender, and avocados? What drew you to these specific plants?”

Steve: Steve explains that his choice of crops is rooted in their health benefits. Manuka, native to New Zealand, is valued for its medicinal properties, while lavender offers both culinary and therapeutic uses. Avocados were chosen for their nutritional value, rounding out his commitment to growing plants that are beneficial to human health.

Lessons from the Industrial Sector

Galen: “Have any skills from your industrial resin flooring business helped you in your agricultural endeavors? And what resources did you utilize to increase your knowledge in this new field?”

Steve: Steve acknowledges that his business experience has been instrumental in networking with experts in agriculture. He emphasizes the importance of building respectful relationships with knowledgeable individuals and continually learning from those with experience in the field.

Focus on Biodiversity and Soil Health

Galen: “You mentioned your focus on biodiversity and soil health. Could you share some of the specific practices you’ve implemented to achieve these goals, and what results have you observed so far?”

Steve: Steve discusses his efforts to promote biodiversity by planting a wide variety of species to support pollinators and other beneficial insects. He also highlights his approach to soil management, which includes regular soil and leaf testing to maintain balance and promote healthy plant growth. Steve is particularly excited about reducing the need for insecticides and herbicides through these practices.

The Role of Technology in Farming

Galen: “I see you have one of our F75 Avocado Quality Meters. Why did you decide to integrate this technology into your farming practices?”

Steve: Steve reveals that the F75 Avocado Quality Meter caught his attention due to its ability to provide non-destructive testing of fruit maturity. He appreciates the meter’s capacity to ensure his avocados ripen correctly, ultimately offering consumers high-quality produce. This technology, Steve notes, is key to maintaining the standard of his fruit and building trust with his customers.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Choice Farms

Galen: “As you continue to grow your operation, have you considered other technologies or tools that could help manage your orchard?”

Steve: Steve shares his interest in expanding his use of technology, including potentially adopting fertigation systems and exploring laser branding for his produce. He is also keen on using soil probes and weather stations to gather valuable data that supports his farming decisions. Although he admits to being somewhat challenged by technology, Steve is committed to learning and evolving his practices.

Advice for Aspiring Farmers

Galen: “What advice would you give to someone just getting started in avocado farming or any small-scale agricultural endeavor?”

Steve: Steve advises new farmers to thoroughly understand their soil and environment before planting. He stresses the importance of preparing the land, selecting appropriate rootstocks, and ensuring proper nutrition for the plants. Steve’s key takeaway is to gather as much information as possible before beginning, as this groundwork is crucial to success.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Steve Haddock’s journey from industrial flooring to regenerative farming is a testament to his passion for nature and innovation. Through his commitment to biodiversity, soil health, and the strategic use of technology, Steve is not only growing high-quality produce but also paving the way for a more sustainable future in agriculture.

Galen wraps up the interview by thanking Steve for his time and insights, and the webinar concludes with a sense of inspiration for all who watched.