Tools and Techniques

As far as possible we mimic natural systems and processes, whilst achieving a healthy crop. For this purpose we are developing a range of “tools” which fit the UK climate. Although listed below as different tools, they are all part of a holistic approach. They are tweaks and adjustments for individual situations.

It is important to get a base of skills and understanding of these tools so the farmer and grower has autonomy and understanding to make their own preparations, empowering the farmer and reaching a broader scale. We are not selling products off the shelf, we are happier to run courses to explain the principles.

For instance biofertiliser, an anaerobic ferment is good for chelating minerals so they are more available to plants. However aerobic tea, made by bubbling air through microbes in solution, is great for building more biology into the system. Native microbes can be propagated aerobically like this, or through the Native Microbe preparation outlined below. Lastly, we can measure the integration of these techniques and their effect on soil structure using Chromatography.

Singing Retreat in the Wye Valley

The Singing Retreat in the Wye Valley is a singing holiday that will run from Friday evening 24th May until Monday 27th May Bank Holiday.

The earth will be warm so come and sing the summer in with your hearts and voices!

Over the long weekend, we will be singing a glorious array of four part harmony songs, ranging from uplifting Gospel, shape note, folk, contemporary and world music – all beautiful songs taught by ear so that there is no need to read music.

The singing will be led by Sheila Tang, an inspiring choir and workshop leader who has many years’ experience of facilitating great singing from even the most inexperienced singers in a fun and joyful way.

There will also be early morning yoga before breakfast for those who fancy some bodywork and invigorating stretches, and a whole camp ceremony on the Sunday. Feel free to bring your musical instruments for jamming sessions in the evenings.

The workshops will take place in a light and airy wooden floored hall. There is plenty of space to camp or to bring your live-in vehicle, or if you'd prefer to sleep indoors, the 'Bunkhouse' has beds in shared dormitory rooms.

There is also a chill out space for evening gatherings. All the indoor spaces have heating and open out onto the farm land, which has orchards, a lake and beautiful views of the Wye Valley.

Friday is setting up day, where you can arrive and enjoy the idyllic surroundings. The retreat starts with evening dinner at 7pm. Delicious, home cooked meals are provided from Friday evening until Monday lunchtime. This will be a wonderful few days of singing, jamming, celebration and community in beautiful surroundings.

Please contact Sheila Tang if you're interested in booking a space for this singing holiday, and also if you’d like to book a dormitory bed.