Building Healthy Soil

Compost and Vermiculture Lab

We know that to grow delicious and nutrient-rich grapes, we need the best soil. Foundational to this is creating compost and vermicompost to build the microbes and fungi that feed plant growth and build healthy soil. Our compost is made up of rich organic material, resulting from gathering leaves and tree ramial from the towns of Chapel Hill and Carrboro.

Our expansive composting operation includes:

Vermicompost lab, including huge tanks that can hold almost 7,000 gallons of liquid biologic agent or ‘compost tea’
Aerated static beds
Johnson Su bioreactors
Windrows

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Meet Dr. Laura Kavanaugh, our soil health consultant. Laura was part of the initial UGF leadership team and led the way in building out our very robust composting operation, including the vermicompost lab.

Secret of our soil

Come See

Our Lab

Take a tour of our facilities and see firsthand how we transform waste into rich, fertile soil. Discover the sustainable practices that make Union Grove Farm a leader in regenerative agriculture.

Schedule A Tour

We have over one mile of composting windrows across our farm.

Windrows offer significant value to regenerative farming by promoting soil health and enhancing ecological balance. By arranging organic materials, such as crop residues or compost, in long, narrow rows, windrows facilitate efficient decomposition and nutrient cycling. This process enriches the soil with essential organic matter, improves its structure, and boosts microbial activity. Additionally, windrows help control erosion, retain moisture, and support biodiversity by creating habitats for beneficial organisms. This method aligns with regenerative principles by fostering a resilient, self-sustaining farming ecosystem that enhances productivity and sustainability.