Hibernation in nature: How sustainable agriculture prepares for winter

When the days get shorter and a white blanket covers the landscape, it may seem as if life in the countryside comes to a standstill. However, for many organic farmers and sustainable farms, winter is not just a time to take a breather, but also a time for preparation, care and reflection. We take a look at how sustainable agriculture uses the cold months and what lessons travellers can learn for their own everyday lives.

The work never stops: winter tasks on organic farms

Although the fields are at rest, there is still a lot to do on organic farms. Caring for the soil is particularly important. Many farmers rely on winter green areas such as clover or rye, which serve as so-called green manure. This plant cover protects the soil from erosion and at the same time provides it with nutrients for the coming season.

Animal husbandry also plays a key role in winter. Many of our partner farms ensure that their animals are housed in warm, well-insulated stables and given high-quality feed, often produced on their own farm. Regular health checks and extra attention are crucial, as cold temperatures can make animals more susceptible to disease.

Preparing for the new agricultural year

Winter is the perfect time to make plans. Many farmers use the cooler months to select seeds, plan fields and further optimise their cultivation methods. Sustainable farming means working with nature, not against it. This is why crop rotation is so important in planning.

Crop rotations are alternating cultivation plans for different plant species in the same fields over several years. This practice keeps the soil healthy in the long term, as different plants draw different nutrients from the soil and give them back. Crop rotation also helps to reduce pests and diseases as monocultures are avoided. This method is a key component of sustainable agriculture and ensures a natural balance in the soil.

In addition, many farms invest in the maintenance of machinery and buildings, insofar as this is financially possible. A well-maintained infrastructure not only makes economic sense, but also helps to conserve resources. Long-lasting equipment means less waste and lower consumption of raw materials.

What we can learn from hibernation

The winter months on sustainable farms remind us how important it is to work with the rhythms of nature. These principles can also be applied to our own everyday lives:

• Time for reflection: Use the winter to pause and plan your own "areas of life". What do you want to achieve in the coming year?
• Conserve resources: Think about your own energy consumption and look for ways to act more sustainably.
• Valuing community: Spend more time with family and friends and nurture your relationships.

Conclusion: Winter as an opportunity

The winter months are much more than just a quiet time in agriculture. They offer the opportunity to prepare for the coming year, to nurture nature and to strengthen togetherness. For travellers who want to experience sustainable principles, there is no better time to discover the quiet magic of country life. Why not pause for a moment, enjoy the winter landscape and learn from nature?

Would you also like to experience hibernation on the farm

Our partner farms are happy to welcome you - even in the winter months! Enjoy the tranquillity of nature, spend the night on an idyllic pitch and discover the variety of regional products directly from the farm.