For the second consecutive year, Swindon is gearing up to host a revolutionary event that brings together gardening enthusiasts, growers, and advocates of healthy eating for a day filled with insightful talks, engaging panel discussions, hands-on demonstrations, and fruitful conversations.
Scheduled to take place on Sunday 28th April at the town centre Hub, the Swindon Growers Summit is poised to welcome individuals from Swindon and beyond, inviting them to participate, absorb knowledge, and exchange ideas. Alongside expert speakers and interactive Q&A sessions, attendees can explore various stalls, stands, and even take part in a seed swap.
Josie Slade, the founder of Swindon Growers, expressed excitement over the return of the event following the positive feedback received from its inaugural edition. “Spring is the perfect season for us to come together, share insights, and explore ways to maximize the potential of our gardens and allotments,” she remarked.
“With a growing interest in healthy eating, organic practices, and homegrown produce, the Summit presents an invaluable opportunity for individuals of all levels – from novices to seasoned growers – to exchange knowledge and experiences. After all, learning is a continual journey,” she added.
Central to this year’s summit is the theme of growing for health, focusing on cultivating nutrient-rich foods to promote physical and mental well-being. Keynote speaker Ben Raskin, Head of Horticulture and Agroforestry at the Soil Association, will draw upon his expertise in organic growing to underscore the holistic benefits it offers.
“Health and happiness are intrinsically linked to our food choices and cultivation practices,” Raskin noted. “Community gatherings such as the Swindon Summit play a pivotal role in fostering collaboration and equipping individuals with the tools they need to embark on their growing journey.”
Joining Raskin for a panel discussion and Q&A session are industry experts including Jamie Carr, founder of Blacklands Organics, Alan Holland from TWIGS community gardens, and compost specialist Eddie Bailey. Herb aficionado Lynda Warren will also impart her knowledge on herb cultivation, catering to both beginners and seasoned gardeners alike.
A notable addition to this year’s lineup is the compost-testing station facilitated by Eddie from Rhizophyllia, offering attendees the opportunity to have their compost samples examined under a microscope.
Further enriching the summit’s offerings, Yatesbury-based Shumei Natural Agriculture will shed light on the advantages of growing one’s food and provide insights into achieving gardening success, particularly in overcoming common challenges like blight and garden pests.
Aiming to foster connections among Swindon’s diverse gardening and growing initiatives, the summit will culminate in a community showcase where local projects will highlight their achievements and extend invitations for broader community involvement.
For those eager to participate, tickets are available for purchase on the Eventbrite page: www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/swindon-growers-summit-24-tickets-855416101587
