
As I look out over the fields, the land lies quiet and still. Very little is growing right now, just a few hardy salads in one of the polytunnels. The second tunnel didn’t perform as well this year, likely due to a lack of care and attention. Winter tends to sap my energy and focus, and I often find myself easing off on the tasks that still need doing. This role, as any grower knows, is a 365 day a year commitment. Not a day goes by without a thought of something that needs doing or something I’ve forgotten.
The empty fields remind me how much there is still to learn. Social media, though I try to limit my time there, often showcases other growers producing beautiful carrots, parsnips, potatoes, cabbages, and more throughout the winter months. I try not to let it bother me, but I’d be lying if I said it didn’t sting just a little. That said, I know this journey is one of slow, steady progress. Each season, I gain new knowledge and confidence, and I’m learning to embrace the slower pace that growing demands.
Despite the lack of crops in the ground, we’ve been busy preparing for the new season. I’m determined to push my sowing dates this year, starting this week with hardy salads, herbs, and greens. The downtime has allowed us to tackle some important jobs: tidying and weeding the grounds, mulching beds and perennials, and pruning the fruit trees—a task I genuinely love.
We’ve also been building larger cold frames to reduce pressure on the polytunnels once the seed sowing begins in earnest, around mid-February. Our dedicated volunteers—Deidre, Viv, and Kev—have braved the cold to help us keep on top of everything. Their support is invaluable, and I can’t thank them enough. A surprise visit from an old friend, JJ, came at just the right time. I was in the middle of moving 35 bags of compost by hand when he appeared out of the blue. Both me and my back were incredibly grateful for the help!
In the coming weeks, we’ll be working on the irrigation system, a critical project for ensuring the success of this year’s crops. We’re also expanding into the second field this year, which feels like a bold move but an exciting one. The plan is to grow less demanding crops, like winter squash and corn, while dedicating much of the field to green manure to build soil fertility for future years. This expansion will allow us to offer more produce, including through the winter months.
We’re also gearing up to run several courses this year, including the "What to Sow in…" series, herbal walks and talks, and composting workshops. You can check out what’s available on our course page if you’re interested.
The winter lull is also a great time for planning. Our seeds are ordered and ready, and this week I’ll be finalising an order for more fruit bushes, including a new raspberry patch—something I’m particularly excited about. We’re also adding more herbs to the garden. For those who don’t know, Nick, who works with me, is a qualified herbalist. This year, we hope to grow plants that can be dried and used in his practice.
The start of the year always brings mixed emotions. I’m acutely aware of the challenges ahead, but I’m also excited about the opportunities for growth, learning, and new experiences. It’s hard to believe this journey is already five years in. Though it will be a couple of months before I see many of you again, that time will fly, and I can’t wait to share all the exciting developments we have planned for this growing season.
Wishing you peace and plants,
Lloyd
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