Proposal 1
To add variety to a local diet through the production of high protein and high carbohydrate vegetables, especially pulses, grains and tubers that are not normally grown in this area or are not part of our traditions. Of particular interest are varieties that could be stored or dried for winter use.
Varieties suitable for these trials would be either hardy or nearly hardy and adaptable to our local climate.
Proposal 2
Involve local people in the above trials to give balance to the results obtained and to provide “ownership” of the process of production. People without a suitable growing area or with little time to put into the trials can still be involved. Window boxes, tubs and pots could be used for small scale trials of some varieties. Tea plants as an example, could be trialled, grown in pots. People with a heated conservatory might like to try growing a cashew tree or varieties of fruit tree in this space.
Growers wanted!
The participation of members of the local community in helping with these trials is very much a part of this project. The more growers involved in the project, the more ownership is shared by the community and the more valid the results obtained.
If anyone is interested in having a go at growing some unusual plants and would like to be part of these trials, please contact me. All are welcome as a large growing area is not required. A community dinner is also planned for the end of the season to highlight the crops we have grown.
Sponsors wanted!
Contributions of whatever you can afford towards the cost of the seed, compost etc. would be much appreciated. Alternatively if you dont have space or time to take part, perhaps you would like be a Take Back Food sponsor? All donations will go towards buying seed, compost and seedtays. I am not looking for any payment for doing the trials, just to cover the costs.
David Burridge, January 2010
Tel: 01597 860186
Email: davidburridge51 at btinternet dot com
