Closed loop Market Gardening - FARMstart free introduction

The Closed loop Market Gardening - FARMstart free introduction takes place on Saturday, September 5, 2026, at Sheepdrove Organic Farm in Lambourn.

What to Expect

• Tour of a demonstration market garden showcasing mixed systems including orchard, forest garden, perennial market garden, polytunnel, mushroom growing, plant nursery, and silvo-horticultural rows.
• Opportunity to taste various plants and engage in a Q&A session with growers.
• Discussion on commercial crops suitable for UK production, both outdoors and indoors.
• Learn how to create low-maintenance sites for food production and establish whole ecosystems.
• Insights into the benefits of trees, complementary plants, and unusual trees & shrubs for food production.
• Explore the potential of commercial fruit and vegetable growing as a career choice.

Who Should Attend

This introduction is suitable for anyone with an interest in growing food as a job or career, aiming to set up a market garden or become a grower.

Practical Information

This is a FREE one-day introduction, running for 5 hours from 10 AM to 3 PM. Refreshments will be provided, but attendees are requested to bring their own lunch. Participants should wear sturdy footwear and dress for all weathers. The venue is rural with limited public transport options; the nearest shop is a 10-minute drive away in Lambourn, and the nearest train stations are Hungerford, Newbury, and Didcot Parkway.