In the heart of Estonia’s countryside, Ahisilla Garden Farm is quietly redefining what it means to farm sustainably. Operated by Kelli Talving and her family, the farm is a living example of how thoughtful land stewardship, circular practices, and community engagement can come together to create lasting impact – both for the environment and for future generations.
From city retreat to garden farm
Ahisilla’s journey began not with a legacy of farming, but with a desire to live more intentionally. The land was originally purchased in 1960 by Kelli’s husband’s grandmother, and for years served as a peaceful retreat while they commuted daily to their jobs in the city. Life was a constant rush – dropping off their children at 7 a.m., returning home by 7 p.m., and squeezing in just an hour of family time.
But when the pandemic shifted the family’s daily life, it also opened the door to a new way of thinking. Inspired by the calm and clarity of rural living, the family began exploring how their 10 hectares could be used to support both nature and people.
With no formal agricultural background, they immersed themselves in learning - attending agricultural schools, workshops, and even a regenerative farming course in Sweden. What emerged was a farm built on regenerative principles: growing vegetables, raising pastured chickens, and cultivating pollinator-friendly flowers, all while maintaining a closed-loop nutrient system.
Farming with heart and purpose
The farm’s chickens are rotated across grassland pastures, fertilizing the soil naturally and helping recycle garden waste. Their manure enriches the vegetable beds, while surplus produce and flower residues are repurposed as feed. Composting, deep mulch systems, and cover cropping further support soil health and reduce nutrient runoff – key steps in protecting nearby water bodies from eutrophication.
These practices are not only environmentally sound – they’re also deeply personal.
Taking care of the land means taking care of everything connected to it – and for us, that's both a responsibility and a privilege.
Kelli Talving, Ahisilla Garden Farm
Ahisilla’s efforts have led to visible improvements: richer biodiversity, better water retention in the soil, and food that customers say tastes noticeably better. The farm has also become a hub for education and collaboration, hosting workshops and partnering with other farmers and beekeepers to share knowledge and resources.
In recognition of their work, Ahisilla Garden Farm was named Estonia’s national winner of the Baltic Sea Farmer of the Year Award 2025. The jury praised the farm’s innovative and integrated approach:
“Although modest in scale, the farm serves as a model of environmentally conscious, community-oriented farming and offers an inspiring example for others committed to preserving small-scale, Baltic Sea-friendly agriculture across the region.”
FARM FACTS
Location: Virtsjärve farm in Ahisilla village, Kose parish Harju county, Estonia
Type of farm: Organic family farm (8 hectares)
Main production: Vegetables, wild and cut flowers, and pasture-raised chickens that produce free-range eggs.
Key practices: Maintain year-round plant cover, Protect soil structure from compaction, Use catch crops or intercrops, Add organic matter to the soil, Practice water management, Use nutrient balance and practice balanced fertilization, Apply fertilizers at the correct time and right conditions, Use careful manure application techniques, Use manure in plant production, Practice precision farming equipment or techniques, Implement practices for nutrient recycling at the farm.
Jury motivation: "Kelli Talving and her family, operating Ahisilla Garden Farm, represent a new generation of progressive and forward-thinking farmers who do not come from traditional agricultural backgrounds. Their approach reflects a strong openness to innovation in land stewardship, environmental sustainability, and engagement with local communities. Their commitment is underpinned by continuous education and collaborative efforts, demonstrating a commendable drive to explore and adopt novel methods suited to small-scale farming." (Read more)
OPINION
Kelli Talving on the future of farming
Q: What positive changes have you seen since adopting regenerative practices?
A: We've seen an increase in pollinators and birds, and our grasslands have become incredibly diverse. The soil holds water much better, even during dry spells, which has made our farm more resilient. Customers also notice the difference in taste and quality of our food – it’s a powerful reminder that healthy soil truly does grow healthy food.
Q: What advice would you give to farmers starting their sustainability journey?
A: Start small and stay curious. You don’t need to change everything at once – begin with one thoughtful step, like introducing cover crops or reducing tillage. Observe how your land responds and let that guide your next move.
Q: What kind of support do farmers need to adopt sustainable practices?
A: Practical, real-life examples are key. When farmers see sustainable practices working in the field – not just in theory – it builds trust and momentum. We also need policies that support experimentation and long-term thinking. Support should empower, not restrict. With the right tools, shared knowledge, and room to grow, farmers can lead the way in shaping a healthier future for agriculture and the planet.