For Hexrivier Sitrus, sustainable business is not just a goal - it is a way of life. Led by Martli Slabber, this family farm in South Africa's beautiful Western Cape is thriving in harmony with nature. Every August, the farm turns into a sea of wildflowers, a beautiful example of the rich biodiversity nature has to offer.
The secret to a healthy harvest
Lots of life in the soil is Martli's secret to producing her lemons. Martli, who has been farming since her 20s (now in her 50s), switched to organic farming in 2008.
Inspired by Masanobu Fukuoka, a pioneer in natural farming, she introduced native flora from the Cape Floral region into the citrus orchards. These plants enrich the soil by feeding essential bacteria and micro-organisms, which in turn feed the citrus trees.
Regenerative agriculture
Martli's commitment to regenerative agriculture has resulted in healthy, productive orchards with minimal pests, while also creating a thriving ecosystem where birds, insects and even predators like caracals live together in harmony.
Commitment to community
But Hexrivier's commitment to sustainability goes beyond the orchards. The women who run the farm are also committed to making a positive social impact. Not only have they received platinum certification for healthy working practices, they have also set up recycling and waste management programmes that benefit the farm's 30 households - Hexrivier-facilitated housing, where both permanent and seasonal workers live. They have additionally extended these efforts to the village of Citrusdal.
Working with local women, they have installed waste bins, cleaned up illegal dumping sites, beautified public spaces and set up a recycling depot - important steps towards a more sustainable future.
Changing the world through responsible farming
"If we want to change the world," says Martli, "we have to start by changing ourselves. And where better to start than with the food we produce and consume? We are all part of a magical and miraculous food chain, from the tiniest beetle to the most powerful captains of industry. While you're at it, grate some organic lemon zest into your summer salad. Responsible food should be tasty."
When you choose lemons from Hexrivier, you are not only choosing top-quality organic fruit - you are also supporting a farm that values ecological balance, community welfare and long-term sustainability.
