Why Diversification Is Key to a Sustainable Future in Farming Farming faces constant uncertainty due to politics, market shifts, and environmental challenges. For Charlie Beldam, the owner of Cotswold Gold, this uncertainty was a key factor in his decision to diversify the business 15 years ago for a sustainable future for British Farming. By doing [...]
The Importance of Sustainability in Modern Farming Sustainable Farming Practices and Crop Rotation at Cotswold Gold is at the core of Cotswold Gold’s farming practices. Charlie Beldam, explains, that sustainable farming practices aren't just about using eco-friendly methods; it’s about creating a balanced, productive system. "What we do is grow wheat, rapeseed, beans, and linseed [...]
Introduction to Flea Beetles and Their Damage to Rapeseed Crops One of the biggest threats to rapeseed crops is the dreaded flea beetle. These tiny pests can wreak havoc on fields, causing significant damage to plants. Farmers like Charlie Beldam, owner of Cotswold Gold, know this all too well. Flea beetles are notorious for creating [...]
In sustainable farming, crop rotation plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy soil and preventing the depletion of essential nutrients. One important part of crop rotation is the use of break crops, which help diversify the types of plants grown in a field. Break crops matter in sustainable farming like rapeseed can significantly improve soil [...]
Farming is a constant battle against the elements, requiring resilience, innovation, and adaptability to changing weather conditions. Over the past 18 months to two years, farmers have faced unprecedented challenges due to persistent wet weather. Charlie shares insights into how these conditions have impacted crop growth, pest control, and overall farm management. The Impact of [...]
As spring approaches, farmers are closely monitoring their crops, and for Charlie, the outlook is promising for rapeseed growth. Despite the challenges of recent seasons, the rapeseed crop planted last September is thriving under idea conditions. Healthy Rapeseed Growth After a Moist Winter “We currently have a nice crop of rapeseed which was established last [...]
