Frome Potato Day and Seed Swap

AS the days gradually lengthen and the first signs of spring emerge, gardening enthusiasts and green thumbs alike eagerly anticipate the return of the Frome Potato Day and Seed Swap on Sunday 18th February at the Cheese and Grain.

The event brings together gardening enthusiasts, local businesses and community groups to celebrate the joys of gardening. And with a focus on sustainability, health, education and community engagement, it aims to inspire individuals to cultivate their growing spaces and foster a deeper connection to the environment.

“This event has become a cherished annual tradition, offering a one-stop-shop for all things gardening.” says Caroline Wajsblum, director of Frome Field 2 Fork CIC. “Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting, Potato Day provides everything needed to kickstart the growing season.”

What will be at the event?

Gardening Stalls

With a selection of seed potatoes, bulbs, seeds, plants, fruit trees, and tools.

Community Seed Swap

Participate in the Community Seed Swap by bringing your excess seeds in clearly marked paper envelopes. Swap seeds with fellow gardeners and find exciting new varieties to diversify your garden.

Community Groups

Find fun ways to connect with your community, exchange tips, tricks, and experiences.

Fun Kids’ Activities

Nurture the love for gardening in the younger generation with engaging activities designed just for them.

Free Workshops

Gain valuable insights from expert-led workshops.

Pre-Book here for workshops https://www.event brite.co.uk/o/frome-field-2-fork-cic-34472155696 or call 078574 37608 if you can’t access the internet.

10:30m Wood for the Trees UK

What is holding back woodland creation in the UK? Frome based film maker Charly Le Marchant returns to screen her new film where experts from all fields involved in both Trees For Life and Trees For Wood share ideas and suggest actions.

11am Launch of Nature Prescribing Frome

The new Nature Prescribing Frome partnership represents a pioneering and collaborative effort in the realm of nature prescribing. Bringing together a diverse array of local organisations committed to harnessing the healing power of nature, the network offers accessible opportunities for improving mental and physical health. Find out about the organisations involved and how they will be working together to provide synchronised opportunities, signposting and progression through organisations, and increase awareness of nature prescribing with the public and within the NHS.

12pm RhizoPhyllia: Eddie Bailey on micro-organisms and the Soil Food Web

Heading over the border from Wiltshire, Eddie Bailey is a chartered consulting geologist and organic allotmenteer with a microscope in tow. Eddie has presented soil science workshops at River Cottage, analysed and compared dig and no dig microbiology at author and gardener, Charles Dowding’s Homeacres and more recently advised at Roots Allotments, Bath.

He will help us to understand the essential role of soil and compost micro-organisms in plant health, sustainable growing and nutritious food. With an opportunity for hands-on observation of local compost samples under the microscope.

1pm Pennard Plants: How you can best grow potatoes in your garden

Learn the ultimate potato-growing secrets from Master Gardener Chris Smith of Pennard Plants, Chris will share his top tips and tricks for cultivating delicious spuds. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, this event is perfect for anyone looking to improve their potato-growing skills. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to learn from the best!

2pm Psychosynthesis Trust: Exploring anxiety through nature connection. PRE-BOOKINGS ONLY

This session is for people experiencing anxiety, managing teams of people or those working in mental health, to access practical techniques. You are invited to explore how nature can have a positive impact on reducing anxious symptoms and increase wellbeing in this interactive experiment. The Psychosynthesis Trust has over 40 years of experience in offering psychotherapy, counselling and support.

Kelly Tyler will guide a small group (12 max) through this workshop meeting at the Cheese and Grain and taking a stroll to a nature location close to the venue; warm clothing and footwear suggested. In this 45-minute workshop you will be guided through relaxation techniques and ways to build a deeper connection to yourself, whilst looking through the lens of nature. .

The event runs from 10am to 2pm. Entrance is £3 per adult (kids free).