A small, family-run certified organic farm near Perugia, growing around 60 vegetable species and combining ecological farming with inclusion projects.
About Microcosmo
Microcosmo is a small, family-run certified organic farm in Vallupina, in the municipality of Magione, just 4 km from Lake Trasimeno and bordering its regional park. On about one hectare of land, in open fields and greenhouses, the farm grows around 60 vegetable species, using organic practices that aim to build a balanced ecosystem in which external inputs become less and less necessary.
The farm is closely connected to its territory: its produce is sold directly on the farm, through solidarity purchasing groups, at local markets twice a month, and to restaurants and a school canteen. Microcosmo also hosts internships for agriculture students and school-to-work placements, including young people with disabilities.
What volunteers do
Through the European Solidarity Corps, and with the coordination and support of Associazione Kora, Microcosmo hosts young international volunteers for long-term placements. Volunteers take part in the daily life of the farm, following the rhythm of the seasons:
- sowing and transplanting, irrigation, natural plant treatments;
- pruning, composting and mulching;
- harvesting, washing and packing vegetables;
- caring for native plant species and general farm maintenance;
- supporting the farm workers and the social workers involved in the inclusion projects;
- helping at markets and public events, promoting healthy, sustainable eating.
Learning and support
Along the way, volunteers learn how to grow vegetables according to ecological principles and how to plan farm work season by season. With the support of a tutor on the farm and a mentor, they reflect on their learning and document it through Youthpass.
Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the Agenzia Italiana per la Gioventù. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.