Growers interested in supplying local box schemes and farmers’ markets are being invited to an open day being run by HDRA, the organic organisation, at a Bedfordshire farm next month.
The Henry Doubleday Research Association (HDRA) will be holding this event at Church Farm, Flitton, which is part of its sustainable organic vegetable systems network. This DEFRA-funded project, led by HDRA, aims to promote innovation and best practice amongst organic vegetable growers.
HDRA research officer Anton Rosenfeld said: “Local marketing, such as box schemes and farmers’ markets, is rapidly increasing in popularity. We will be holding this open day to focus upon the agronomic and marketing challenges of growing organic vegetables for these outlets.”
The open day will run from 10am to 4pm. The morning session will include talks on growing for box schemes and farmers’ markets, marketing to schools, innovation in organic vegetable growing and organic varieties. Speakers from HDRA, River Nene Organics, Mayfield Organics and Ashlyns will be involved.
David Catlin from Church Farm will give a guided tour of his organic vegetable crops during the afternoon session. David has considerable experience in growing vegetables for local markets and has grown organically for four years.
The open day costs £10 per person and places are limited, so it is advisable to book in advance. For further details visit www.organicveg.org.uk, call Anton Rosenfeld on 024 7630 3517 or email arosenfeld@hdra.org.uk.
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