growing and wild crop

What if I have specific questions about my farming practices?

U.S. farmers and ranchers, agricultural educators, and farmer-assistance organizations can get answers about specific farming practices from ATTRA. Ask an expert.

Need outside help? CCOF cannot actively consult with our clients regarding organic certification compliance. We do offer a list of organic consultants and agriculture and pest advisors as a resource. This list includes names and contact information as well as a description of the services each consultant provides.

What is a wild crop and how does one get certified organic?

A wild crop is a plant or portion of a plant that is collected or harvested from a site that is not maintained under cultivation or other agricultural management. This means that in order for a crop to be considered wild it cannot be watered, fed, or otherwise managed. In order to certify a wild crop as organic it must be harvested in a manner that ensures that such harvesting or gathering will not be destructive to the environment, and will sustain the growth and production of the wild crop.

Which crops require a 120 day pre-harvest interval when manure is applied?

Crops intended for human consumption and whose edible portion has direct contact with the soil surface or soil particles require a 120 day pre-harvest interval (PHI). A 90 day PHI is required for those crops whose edible portion does not come in contact with soil particles (i.e. orchard fruit). How the crop is grown and harvested with regards to soil contact will determine which pre-harvest interval is to be used.

Where can I buy potting soil for organic gardening?

Potting soil, soil amendments, fertilizers, and pesticides/herbicides are not certified organic. These types of products are “approved for organic production” by agencies like the Organic Materials Review Institute or Washington State Department of Agriculture, who certify products to be allowed for use in organic production. Each product or material is scrutinized by an independent organization like OMRI to ensure that it meets standards for organic production and includes approved ingredients.