First volunteer training sessions a great success

For the first time this year, we are dedicating training sessions to our volunteers, and where better to start than at the beginning of the growing process – sowing seeds?

In the last week of March 2026, two cohorts of enthusiastic volunteers received expert tuition from our Trustee Sharon Ross in the mysteries of seed sowing, concentrating on purple podded peas, sweet peas, basil, sunflowers and cosmos. They were also shown our new compost bins, and Chair of Trustees Steve Dent talked the attendees through how they would work, what could be composted, etc.

Further sessions will take place every month, in parallel with the development of the seedlings, so that volunteers are able to practise all the necessary techniques, from pricking out to potting on and eventually planting the young plants out into the garden, both under cover and in the open.

The sessions were very well received, and we look forward to seeing the fruits of the attendees’ labour later in the season!

New for 2026 – Heritage Edible Growing at the Garden


This season, our Community Garden has chosen to grow heritage (heirloom) seeds and we’re excited to share why.

Heritage seeds are open-pollinated varieties passed down through generations. Unlike many commercial hybrids bred for uniformity, these plants are valued for their flavour, resilience, and rich diversity. By growing them, we help preserve biodiversity and strengthen our local food system.

Because they’re open-pollinated, we can also save seeds from year to year, building greater self-sufficiency and sharing with others. Most importantly of all, heritage seeds connect us to gardening traditions of the past while helping us grow sustainably for the future.

The Heritage Seed Library has long supported this important work of protecting rare and culturally significant varieties.  In October 2025, the Garden became a member of Garden Organic and also the Heritage Seed Library. For 2026, we have chosen over 20 heritage seeds to grow. Each month we will share news about the heritage seeds we are growing and our partnership with the Heritage Seed Library.

If you’d like to find out more, we are holding a special Heritage Seeds Workshop this spring!

Tuesday 14th April 2026; 10:30am – 1:00pm

Join us to discover and learn:

  • Why we grow heritage seeds – explore the history, flavour, resilience and biodiversity benefits of heritage varieties.
  • Learn how to sow seeds – get practical tips and simple techniques to help you sow seeds successfully and confidently.

Whether you’re a complete beginner or an experienced grower, this workshop is perfect for you! Free event – but booking is essential.

Please register with Sharon if you would like to attend: [email protected]