We are creating Chiltern Forage Farm at a stunning site between Hughenden, Hampden and Chequers estates. Surrounded by historic woodland and pasture, we are working to return overgrazed fields and neglected trees to their biodiverse heritage. Having removed the sheep, we are regenerating the meadow wildflowers and introducing productive trees and soft fruit. The area was known for its Cherry orchards with the last few specimens surviving in the hedgerows.
Initial foraging has produced Blackberry fruit leathers, Sloe reduction to add colour and flavour, Sorrel salads, Nettle soup, floral dressings including Sweet Violet for lamb and Primrose for veal, and Elderflower sorbet. Summer and autumn provide Black Cherries, Cobnuts, Rose-hips and Haws.
Plantings of more edible flowers, berries, fruit, foliage and even roots are planned as well as for uses such as Hazel pea sticks, Mistletoe and Holly for decoration and Blackthorn for pest control.
Habitats are being created such as a ‘dead hedges’ using fallen wood and prunings key to providing small mammals and birds with protection from the red kites. A wild life pond is in the pipeline to provide much needed water in this free-draining area. Having completed butterfly identification and surveying courses with in-field training in local reserves and acted on Council of Prestwood Nature promoting local sites and wildlife, Emma offers a series of talks.
@ChilternForageFarm NGS Gardens Open for Charity for details of Sunday 20th July open day https://ngs.org.uk
