3 minute read
St Ives Farmers’ Market
A chat with Bryn Beckford-Martin of Wild Botanic Flower Farm
What’s the story behind Wild Botanic Flower Farm?
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It evolved from a love for plants and our natural world. Specialising in wildlife-friendly plants and cut flowers is at the heart of our business. We supply people with locally- grown produce that has been selected not only for its benefits to wildlife, but also looks great, and will work well in the garden, vase, restaurant table or wedding bouquet.
Do you have a background in horticulture?
Our journey began straight from leaving school, I as an apprentice in horticultural conservation and Clare at agricultural college, where we met. Clare was studying horticulture and I was studying wildlife management. For 15 years, we honed our skills, and gained experience working on landscaping and restoration projects for organisations and private gardens.
How did your business begin?
Ten years ago, we found the land near Portreath where Wild Botanic Flower Farm was born. Creating and caring for natural habitats is at the forefront of what we do on the farm. Using old farm practices of three-yearly hedge cutting, coppicing, different mowing regimes and rewilding has made the land a haven for wildlife, and this year we found a rare species of moth which has now been recorded. With the help of friends, we have planted more than 6,000 native trees on the land and created shallow pools in the wet areas. We now grow a mix of perennial plants for sale from low growing sedums and saxifrages, native wildflowers, cut flower plants, shrubs, roses and potted trees, which are grown from seed or cutting. Raised beds have been made for growing cut flowers, all of which are pollinator-friendly species, grown in mixed perennial beds and left for larvae and insects to over winter in – unusual for a commercial enterprise, but beneficial for the local environment. The mix of plants means a greater diversity of insects. Our flowers are made into jam jar posies, bouquets and flowers for all occasions.
What will you be focussing on in the run-up to Chriistmas?
We’ve planted willow beds for rods to be used in traditional crafts. We cut the rods in October and November, once the leaves have fallen, and weave wreaths to go with our dried flowers, and then for Christmas, we add foraged hedgerow foliage. This winter, we will be making potted living willow sculptures, which can be planted out in your garden. Everything we make, create and grow is done with wildlife in mind – no peat and no chemicals, and we use only recycled or upcycled pots and jars. Send us a message – we offer advice on plants, planting and creating wildlife gardens. You can order online for free local delivery, too.
For more information, find Wild Organic Flower Farm at @St Ives farmers market, and on Facebook/Instagram @Wild Botanic Flower Farm.
Belgian Inspired Licensed Café
Here at the family run Bier Huis, we are passionate about sharing the authentic dining and drinking rituals that Belgium has to offer! This hidden gem, tucked away in the St Andrews St Hideaway Quarter, offers the largest Bier collection in St Ives with over 75 bottled and 7 draft belgian varieties. Open daily from 12pm-10pm, you can expect to enjoy lunch or dinner with a relaxed atmosphere in grand surroundings. Our knowledgeable and friendly team are on hand to guide you through your journey of Belgian discovery! Bookings recommended through our website, takeaway Bier available all day.
01736 797074
16 St Andrews Street, St. Ives TR26 1AH
