Transitioning from Conventional to Organic Farming in Jamaica

Decton Hylton has the benefit of decades of experience as a farmer in Jamaica, coupled with his extensive knowledge and experience of sustainable organic agriculture in the USA. It is from this background that he was selected as a Farmer-to-Farmer volunteer to share his expertise with the host, Source Farm Eco-village. Decton notes that “there is a lack of Jamaican farmers who are trained in organic farming practices.” Therefore, the purpose of his visit was to train a cadre of Jamaicans in organic farming practices tailored to meet the demands of local agricultural production while raising awareness of globally accepted Good Agricultural Practices (GAPs). 

Decton delivered a series of courses which covered topics such as soil fertility, cropping systems, land management, vermicomposting, farm viability, and marketing strategy to name a few. For practical sessions, each trainee prepared seed planting mix and potting mix using sustainable, locally available materials such as coconut coir and compost. After the seed starting mix was made, several vegetable seeds like tomatoes, cucumber, spinach and beets were planted.

Decton stated that “the use of harmful synthetic pesticides and fertilizers has had a negative effect on Jamaica’s delicate ecological balance, reducing soil fertility and damaging the environment.” Therefore, a module in his training looked at more sustainable practices that could restore soil fertility and increase the population of beneficial insects like bees. The importance of establishing –and documenting– Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) was also emphasized, especially as it relates to safeguarding public health.  

“The thing that struck me most during my various interactions with people in the classes, the farmers market and the school was their openness and willingness to transition from conventional farming practices to a more sustainable way of life. Everyone I encountered was eager to adopt new ideas and learn new techniques, especially the young people that I met. It is important to share the valuable insights and collective wisdom that exists in Jamaica with the next generation, so that there can be continuity as well as growth in this vital industry. Training programs such as this course are essential if the productivity level of the Jamaican farmer is to be improved and should be replicated across the island.”