THE MODERN MINT BLOG
Ken Thompson, Botanist
We are big fans of the botanist and author Ken Thompson, who was a Senior Research Fellow at the University …
Lauriston Farm, A Biodynamic Farm in Essex
A few weeks ago Modern Mint took a trip to Goldhanger in Essex, to see Spencer Christie who farms Lauriston Farm. Lauriston Farm is run biodynamically – which in simple terms (in incredibly simple terms!) means the gardener or farmer takes account of an intricate web of relationships that can influence life on earth and tries to work with or guide it in a beneficial way. Beneficial for the soil, the animals, the plants and ourselves. We have come across biodynamic growers before, most notably Beatrice Krehl the head gardener at Waltham Place, began to tend the vegetable garden biodynamically for Strilli …
Fairtrade Fortnight: Peeling back the Banana Story
Yesterday was the launch of Fairtrade Fortnight. This year the campaign is in support of banana farmers who are struggling to make a living from their crop. Supermarkets have almost halved the price of bananas over the last ten years, meaning it is farmers who bear the brunt of our savings. Buying Fairtrade bananas means workers have: Safe conditions to work in. Earn enough for a decent standard of living. Have rights and benefits. The idea of sourcing all your food from the local area is a good aim. But in the winter months the body begins to crave something a …
Organisations We Love and Support
A common theme between these groups is that they support long term initiatives and developments. We feel this is the best work, and relates to how we want to do things here at Modern Mint – partner up and be generous for the long run. Have a good look yourself! The Tree Council Why not apply to be a tree warden? Garden Organic Adopt a vegetable (and annoy a meat loving friend!) South East Essex Organic Gardeners Our local (well, local enough) group here in Essex. And lastly, our absolute favourite… Rare Breeds Survival Trust The 2013 watchlist contained 1 …