Challenges of Community Growing in the Highlands

We’re excited about this one! Ever read the back of a seed packet and realised the instructions are written for someone growing in sunny, warm Devon?!

Come and learn from experienced community growers Marian and Andy as we look at how the Highland weather, seasons/light levels and environment impacts on where, how and what we grow. Best practice up in the north often varies from what you learn in books and on gardening programs, so you’ll leave this workshop ready for whatever the weather brings! As well as the practical aspects, the Highlands provides challenges for engaging our communities in growing. Part of this workshop will be given to sharing our experiences in this to learn what works well in terms of engaging with communities in rural areas.

At Craigdhu Croft Marian and Andy grow vegetables, soft fruit, apples and potatoes in their field, garden and polytunnel, as well as hosting workshops for local growers. They also make cakes, jam and cordials from their produce and sell through the Food Lochaber collaboration.  The croft is situated on a gentle hillside just outside Banavie, a few miles to the west of Fort William.

This workshop will look at:

•              How the Lochaber/Highland weather and growing conditions influence what is grown and the methods used to get a good crop

•              Some of the issues that affect what they do in terms of engaging with the local community

During a tour of the growing areas we’ll discuss:

•              Why do crop rotation

•              How to reduce pest/diseases

•              When and how to sow/plant in varied the growing conditions across the Highlands

•              Benefits and pitfalls of growing outside and inside

•              Tips on establishing and maintaining good soil health

This informal gathering will be an opportunity to make stronger connections with other local groups with an interest in food, and the Good Food Movement across the Highlands.

There will be some useful notes to take away.

Please bring welly/waterproof boots and jackets and warm clothes (as who knows what the Lochaber weather will bring!). A toilet is available at the house Refreshments are likely to be under canopy or in the barn if very wet. Please get in touch if you would like more information about access etc.

TRAVEL: We have a small budget available to help with travel costs. Please get in touch with us if cost of travel is a barrier to you being able to attend and we will be able to help.

Contact: [email protected]