Get to Know our new Head Grower, Jude…
Can you tell us a bit about your background and how you got into farming?
I did an apprenticeship at the Royal Botanic Gardens in Kew, and then went on to work at London Zoo doing specialist propagation in the hothouse there and growing organic food for the animals. I then did a second apprenticeship with the Soil Association called ‘Future Growers’. I have been running a market garden for the last seven years down in Surrey for a steel tycoon.
What first sparked your interest in organic and sustainable agriculture?
I loved growing plants as a kid, I did my neighbour’s garden and so on. I read a book called One Straw Revolution whilst at Kew which was the first time I had considered anything about growing organically. This dramatically changed my mindset and how I thought about growing food and farming.
What has been your biggest learning experience in previous roles?
I learnt a lot whilst running the market garden in Surrey, as it was my first role in management after several apprenticeships. I learnt how to deal with crop plants, working with clients, chefs, staff, and growing all different types of vegetables.
What does “organic farming” mean to you beyond just avoiding chemicals?
I am really focussed on the eco system as a whole, and in trying to balance it. Not using chemicals is therefore just a no brainer because of how they negatively impact insects and biodiversity. Everything in the world of growing is moving that way; there is a big change compared to 12 years ago even in establishments like RHS Chelsea. Folks want to move away from using chemicals as much as possible and it’s a huge positive.
What drew you to our farm and this role as Head Grower?
The community, the customer base, the potential to improve and build, and to take on my own project and make something of my own. Everything that’s needed for that is already here; we have all the elements here needed to teach in the future, which is what I’d like to do. I’d like to run an apprenticeship programme and loads more volunteering!
What are your first impressions of the team, the land, and the community here?
Everyone is really friendly, enthusiastic, and up for stuff!
Do you have any goals or visions for the farm in the next few seasons?
I would like to get the glasshouse in Cherry Orchard up and running, as well as the polytunnels. We’ll be able to expand on what we grow, with exciting things like turmeric, sweet potatoes, lemongrass, and okra!
How do you see your role in connecting the farm’s work to our customers and community?
Through teaching, farm tours, and getting more volunteers in. Through inspiring the community to grow their own, it’s not just about buying veg but getting everyone to do some horticulture and having a go themselves
What’s your favourite crop to grow — and to eat?
Broad beans and cabbage, they’re tough famine foods and survive the winter. When I was younger I had an obsession with crops that would feed everyone if everything went to pot. And Jerusalem artichoke!
To eat, I really love potatoes, charlotte new potatoes specifically just boiled with lots of butter!
How do you think organic farms can play a role in tackling climate change or food insecurity?
By inspiring everyone to grow their own. If everyone grew just one thing our food security would massively improve. We can inspire and teach people, that’s our role!
What do you get up to when you’re not on the farm?
I paint, mainly in the style of aboriginal dot paintings, I like reading and I’m interested in History, the Bronze age, and Roman times. I also love to roller blade at skate parks and spend time with my two boys and wife Suvi.
To follow what Jude and the farm team are up to, connect with them on Instagram HERE and Facebook HERE
