Fruit production and all operations at Castle Fruit Farm are carried out with regard to the sustainable use of all resources on the farm including soil, water, air, wildlife habitats, landscape, and where they exist, archaeological features. Production methods integrate beneficial natural, biological and cultural processes into modern farming practices using the most appropriate technology. The complete process of growing the plums, storage, grading and packing the fruit is carried out at Castle Fruit Farm. All land that is not used for crop production is managed to maintain habitats capable of supporting the widest range of flora and fauna.

For example, hedges are only trimmed in late spring one year in three, and grass margins are allowed to grow to provide cover for beetles and beneficial insects. We have been part of a university study looking at pollinator numbers and habitat combined with intensive fruit production; it has been found that there are good resources for pollinators; in fact we have the highest number of bee and hoverfly species in comparison with other orchards studied.

The soil nutrient status is monitored by soil analysis and nutrients added accordingly. The soil organic matter status is enhanced by casting the grass clippings in the line of the trees and in some orchards mulching under the trees using green waste compost. All the dessert apple, pear and plum orchards now have trickle irrigation installed so that efficient use of water is optimised.

To reduce electricity use solar pv panels have been installed on the barn roofs to benefit the farm and farm house. Solar thermal panels have been installed for hot water heating to the showers for the worker accommodation. Water and sewage from the accommodation is treated by a biodisc and reedbed system.