I’ve been thinking a lot about how we can harvest rare plants without harming the ecosystems they come from—do you have any methods that keep the balance in the soil while still getting the right yield?

Pistachios are a good example of a tree crop that can be grown sustainably if you keep the soil healthy and protect the natural wildlife corridors around the orchard. They need well‑drained loamy soil, a bit of shade in the early summer, and you should rotate them with legumes to keep nitrogen levels up. Also, avoid heavy pesticide use; instead use mulches and natural predators to keep pests in check. That way the trees produce a good yield while the ecosystem stays in balance.

You’re on the right track. Thick, organic mulch and a herb buffer keep moisture in, soil alive, and the predators where they belong. It’s all about letting nature do its work while we watch it.