I am a farmer through and through. As a child, I took care of our cows at my father's "Ganswirtshof," mucked out the stable, and fed the animals. Over ten years ago, my father completely gave up livestock farming and dedicated himself solely to fruit cultivation. Then came my big moment: I received part of the farm from my father and was able to establish my own farmstead.

After four years at agricultural high school, my thirst for knowledge was still unquenched, and I seized every opportunity to learn more about organic farming. Conversations with fellow farmers, information from the South Tyrolean Advisory Service, and numerous field walks with experts made me feel increasingly ready for organic farming. I wanted to understand everything from A to Z and eventually made the switch to organic. For a solid economic foundation, organic prices seemed more attractive, and I even ignored my father's advice, who initially feared I might overextend myself with organic farming. Today, he has also realized that I haven't failed and that I have the right attitude for this type of cultivation: I don't get nervous immediately when a few pests appear and don't rush to plant protection. Usually, after a few days, natural antagonists join the pests, and nature solves the "problem" on its own, in its rhythm. The potential pests are the same in organic and other cultivation methods, and I've known them since my childhood. However, I had to get to know all the beneficial insects in organic farming, and it became a fascinating journey of knowledge. One never stops learning, and I constantly discover new things even in other farmers' apple orchards. We regularly exchange many activities, a true form of work-sharing. Together, we observe better. Many eyes see more than two, and together we always find a solution. We are inherently optimistic and not afraid of hard work. If it serves to create the best conditions for Mother Nature, it's definitely worth it. My father also helps regularly and is now very happy with my decision to switch to organic farming.

As an amateur drummer, I practice especially patience with myself. It takes a lot of time to learn new things, and one must often forgive oneself for mistakes. It's the same with organic farming, and when it succeeds, the fun and joy always remain. I adjust the rhythm of my drumming to that of nature; that's when it works best. An informal jam session with nature is often very beneficial because you get to know each other better, and after a while, you form a truly successful band.