We are grateful to Dave Govier for showing us around Langridge Farm near Yeoford recently. Three generations of his family have farmed at Langridge and it was David’s father who converted the farm to organic in 1983. He established a partnership with Abel and Cole to supply organic veg and continues to supply a major wholesaler in London as well as selling locally including at Four Seasons and The Green House.
This summer has been very hard for veg growing. Dave showed us various crops obviously under-sized or heat affected but also explained some of the ways he has tried to reduce the impact of hot, dry conditions including designing an irrigation valve for water bowsers and dribble hoses but also explaining how years of careful soil management have increased the fertility and water retention of his land. He has plans to build another pond as a water reservoir. Yields about 50% below what Dave had expected.
But despite the challenges, Dave was able to show us loads of flourishing and succulent veg including cavallo nero, collards, potatoes, rainbow chard, kale and swedes amongst others. He tries new crops each year to see how they do – this year French beans and squash have grown well, parsley and pak choi not so much.
The fertile soil is good for ‘weeds’ too (!) and it was noticeable how Dave’s fields looked much more natural than intensively farmed crops where virtually no weeds are allowed space. He was proud of his hedgerows and the birds which find a home at Langridge including nesting hobbies.
It was fascinating hearing Dave talk about the history and current practice – we asked loads of questions – and he generously allowed us to pick some veg to take home. Look out for Farmer Govier produce in Crediton shops.
You can see pictures of our visit below, and on the link below to our Instagram account:
https://www.instagram.com/sustainable_cred26?stkn=MTB4M2FxNmZya3ZoeQ==
Andrew Davey
