It’s been a while since we have sat down and reflected on what has been going on here on the farm, but now is certainly a good time to share some of our news. This season has brought its usual mix of challenges, surprises, and moments that remind us why we love farming. From thriving herbal leys to herd checks and early preparations for winter shows, there’s been plenty happening across the farm. Here’s a round-up of what we’ve been up to - and what’s on the horizon as we look ahead to a new chapter…so relax with a warming cuppa whilst we take five on the farm…
#1 Herbal leys thriving
Our new herbal leys, sown back in September, are absolutely flying. They’ll be ready for grazing next year, and we couldn’t be happier with how they’re shaping up. These diverse mixes are brilliant for soil health - the deep-rooting herbs help improve structure, while the legumes quietly get on with fixing nitrogen.
After giving the fields a generous dose of our own farmyard manure, we cultivated, drilled, and rolled…and the results are already speaking for themselves!
#2 Cover crops in bloom
Over the hedge, our neighbour’s cover crop has burst into a sea of sunflowers and psyllium and looks absolutely gorgeous - a proper showstopper looking out over the Island farms.
Aside from looking incredible, these colourful mixes protect the soil as part of a healthy crop rotation and offer much-needed food for birds and pollinators as winter closes in. A win-win for nature and the landscape.
#3 Pregnancy testing and herd health
We’ve been busy pregnancy-testing both cattle and sheep, and this year we’ve ended up with a few more empties than we’d hoped for. We’re putting it down to the dry summer and a dip in grazing nutrition, after all, nature always keeps us on our toes. As ever, we’re learning, adapting, and doing what we can to give the herd and flock the best footing going into winter.
#4 Grass, stock, and show prep
This summer’s dry spell put real pressure on grass growth, and we’ve had to reduce our stock numbers as we head into winter, with fewer mouths to feed when hay and silage are tight. Thankfully, the late-season grass flush through September, October, and even November has been a huge relief. It honestly feels like spring growth out there!
We’re now getting our best cattle and sheep prepped for the winter shows and the historic Gilten Market, the oldest in the country. Meanwhile, our older calves (now 9 -11 months old, basically teenagers in farm terms!) are weaned and settling into the barn for winter, gearing up for their first independent summer out on grass next year.
#5 Farewells and fresh starts
The past few months have brought some hard goodbyes to a handful of much-loved local characters. Their knowledge, stories, and humour have shaped our community, and we’ll miss their wisdom deeply. It’s a reminder of the roots we all share and the legacy carried from one generation to the next.
Farming is a cycle, one of life, loss, and renewal - and our community feels each turn strongly. Even as we reflect, we’re also stepping forward. A new farm is on the horizon for us, and although it’s early days, we’re excited for the opportunities it will bring for both our livestock and Duxmore Botanics. Everything else remains the same - the shop, the branding, and all the good stuff you’re used to. We’ll keep you posted as things progress.
Fingers crossed for a smooth journey!