Native Microbes

What are they?

The objective of this practice is to reproduce the local microbiology, as bacteria, actinomycetes, fungi, algae and protozoa working in a complete harmony in a healthy environmental system (forest, farm or even animal and human system).

At the end the product will be a solid mixture which is ready to use on its own or using it by adding into a different regenerative and healthy practice.

What are Native Microorganisms for?

To replicate, reproduce, enrich, activate and recover in a biological way your land, animal or human system.

This method can be used and activated with different solid and liquid recipes as Bocashi, fermented brews and others. Another issue doing this microbe reproduction is for use in human and animal health system with same results (encourage balanced life).

How they work?

First at all we have to understand that a healthy local forest keeps the geo-biological memory of a specific area, ie plants, system and microbes working in an endosymbiosis in that area with local issues, such as climate or ecological factors.  We can try to understand it and make use of this natural process.

Therefore reproducing Natives Microorganisms encourages a biological balance, breaking down Organic Matter and strengthening plant, animals and human health system.

Collecting Native Micro organisms at Ragmans

  • Living Willow Residential

    Living Willow Residential Weekend 

    17 & 18th February 2018 (Sat 10am – Sun 4pm)

    Learn the art of living willow over the course of a weekend.

    We will begin with a tour of our willow beds and select, harvest and grade the willow for the weekend.

    Using the “ Universal Weave technique “ we will first make the simplest of all willow structures a “ fedge screen “. Applying what we have learnt we will then progress on to a 3 dimensional structure such as an arch or dome.

    The course is primarily hands on but we will also cover topics such as site selection, suitable willow varieties and the 4 golden rules: the key to making successful, long lived willow structures. Steve & Carine will share their experience and tips from two decades of designing and installing living willow structures.

    By the end of the weekend each participant will be able to design and make any type of living willow structure whether it be a screen, den or outdoor classroom.

    Participants will also receive handouts with instructions and diagrams to take home and be eligible for a 5% discount on any willow ordered in the month after the course.

    Accommodation is in the Farm’s Bunkhouse which is heated by a willow powered masonry stove as used throughout Scandinavia.

    Delicious home cooked vegetarian food is provided all weekend by Anna, our local chef extraordinaire. (Please let us know if you need a specialist diet)

    On Saturday evening Steve will present his famous ‘Willow in art, technology & the environment’ slideshow. Or you can just kick back with a bottle of our Ragmans Lane Cider in front of the stove with your new willow friends.

    Participants travelling long distances may arrive on Friday evening between 6pm and 10pm.

    Sheets, pillows and pillowcases are provided, but bring your own Duvet/Sleeping Bag and Towel.

    Cost £190

    For more information and to book a space please CLICK HERE



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