In a world where division and conflict grows ever louder, nature remains unfazed, despite the rocks we throw at it. Seeds burst through, leafy greens unfurl and, with a little love from us, growth is steady and predictable. Where care and warmth are given, it’s wonderful what can grow - we all just need to look for the light.
Notes from the field
As a result of the recent high temperatures, we’ve noticed more aphids than usual on the farm. Aphids thrive in warm temperatures and sheltered environments and initially we were worried, however, experience has taught us patience, to trust natural biological control, and now the tables are turning. Parasitic wasps, ladybird and hover fly larvae are arriving as our caped crusaders - they’re all natural predators of the aphid. Parasitic wasps are particularly interesting as they lay their eggs inside the aphids and their developing larvae feed on it internally, killing it and forming a hardened ‘mummy’. Adult wasps later emerge from the ‘mummy’ and continue the cycle by parasitising more aphids. This natural method of “pest” control highlights how natural predators are key in maintaining ecological balance. By targeting aphids, parasitic wasps can protect crops without harming other insects or plants.
Thinking of nature’s balance, there’s a movement gathering pace to ban glyphosate. It’s a chemical herbicide which has a devastating effect on our wildlife and, used pre-harvest, leaves a residue on our food with links to serious health concerns such as cancer and liver disease. Banned in the EU, it’s freely used in the UK but in December the Government will decide if it will renew the glyphosate licence. The Soil Association have plenty on their website if you’d like to know more or sign their petition if you support a ban act.soilassociation.org/cut-the-chemicals
Herbs on the farm: Lemon Balm & Bay
Herbs are such an easy way to increase the variety of plants we eat and organic herbs are pretty hard to come by so we’ve expanded the range we offer here at the farm. A member of the mint family, lemon balm grows readily at Barcombe and makes a refreshing tea when infused in hot water or muddled in a cool glass of elderflower. It works wonderfully with cucumber and gives a real citrus tingle when tossed in a salad with fresh peas and radishes. Throw in a Thai curry, a creamy pasta, chopped over some Jersey Royals - even added to a lemon drizzle cake. We’ve a big organic bay tree that we’re harvesting too this season. Bay is a staple for stews and sauces but also great in puddings and makes a delicious ice cream. Grab a bundle today of each today and discover herbs aren’t just a support act, they can be a lovely front man too.
Fruity Bundles
We’re always banging on about our veg that sometimes, it’s easy to forget our fruit! You can add any fruits individually, plump for a fruit and veg box, a fruit box (with 5 different fruits) or we also do a seasonal fruit bundle of 3 fruits. You can add one along with any veg box and it’s a great value way to think about fruit more seasonally.
Apricots
We’ve some early soft fruits to herald Springtime and our Spanish apricots are everything you need an apricot to be: sweet and soft with a cheeky burst of tang in the skin. Gorgeous in a tart, a tagine or simply a sunny snack.
Cherries
A firm favourite here at the farm, organic cherries have arrived and boy are they pretty! Certainly good enough to eat, throw in a salad, a chocolate pudding or hide under the table and eat the whole bag on your own!
Events: Spring Open Day
Don’t forget, it’s our open day Saturday 30th May, 10:30-1pm. Meet the team, wander around the farm, listen to soundscapes and see how and where your food is grown. There’ll be produce for sale, activities for all the family and a guided farm tour by Harry kicking off at 11am. The weather’s looking fine and it’ll be lovely to welcome you!
© 2026 - Barcombe Nurseries
Powered by
