Grow It Yourself is a popular community organisation with a vision of bringing people together in a sustainable and healthier way through organic food growing. Now it has plans to launch further afield in the UK
Chyanhall Allotments in Cornwall has provided a successful model for farmers and landowners to generate income while providing a grow-your-own space for the community
'Where do I start?' Paul Kingsnorth answers the oft-asked question of those who want to grow their own food - but are lacking in knowledge, time, space, or all three. No problem. Read on...
In the past decade, the sales pitch of the biotech companies has shifted with the climate of public opinion. Public scepticism has remained high, but politicians seem to have bought enthusiastically into the GM ‘solution’. In many ways this encapsulates where science has gone wrong – by inventing technologies without first deciding what problems need addressing. If GM crops are the answer, what exactly is the problem?
You may see your garden as a spare room or a place to be in touch with nature, but changes to planning rules mean it is likely to attract higher council tax if it hasn’t already been snapped up by a developer. Jack Shamash reports
‘OK then,’ I say to Fergus, with a challenge in my voice, ‘what about badger?’ ‘Badger?’ says Fergus, his eyes on the road as he drives me into the Kent countryside. ‘Many times. There’s no rhyme or reason to badger. Sometimes it tastes really gamey and uriney, even if it’s fresh. It can be excellent though.’ I look at him as he drives. He’s definitely serious.
Having an allotment is no longer a tiresome hobby practised by old geezers in wellies and donkey jackets. It’s an insurance policy against an uncertain future, as Paul Kingsnorth has found out for himself over the last three years.