2026 Spring Plant and Gift Sale
Preparing for the Plant and Gift Sale
It has been a busy year for the people we support. Our plant growing calendar has been extended by growing bedding plants from seed opposed to growing them from plug plants. We have also started to grow perennials in response to popular demand.
As always the stars of the show were the people we support, who put in so much effort and enthusiasm to learn new skills
The idea of growing seed was introduced by by our volunteers, Michelle and Allie, through our development team.
We would like to give special thanks to Laura. Laura is known as our ‘Queen of Veg’. Growing flowers from seed has been a new experience for her. She has put in lots of time and effort, whilst teaching new skills to the people we support.
We have learnt a lot this year. Some things we are good at growing, others need a bit more practice.
There was also a lot of activity in our craft room with people making gifts for sale.
Our bees have also been busy making yummy honey, but unfortunately, we lost two of the hives, which has meant that there was only small jars of honey available.
The day of the Plant Sale
Despite the rain, plenty of people came along to support us; many people were visiting for the first time.
Dave, the ‘King of the BBQ’, was there as always, skilfully flipping burgers with his trusty spatula. However, one member of staff made it clear that he was ready to compete for the title, so Dave may need to watch his crown.
Entertainment was performed by Jim on his violin, who set a relaxing mood for the BBQ. Jim has been a great help over the years.
There were lots of prizes up for grabs in our raffle. Here is our our lovely Jean fanning herself with the generous gifts from local businesses.
We appreciate everyone came and would like to say a very special thank you to all of you.
Kind Words from Visitors
We received lovely messages from first-time visitors, which made all our hard work feel especially worthwhile.
The people we support were on hand to speak to visitors about their work and show them around the farm. Many people enjoyed a walk through our beautiful sensory garden, often described as the ‘jewel in Dale Farm’s crown’.
Plant plans for the rest of the year
We hope to continue developing the propagation skills of the people we support. Our perennial project provides valuable opportunities to teach techniques such as cuttings, basal cuttings, division, seed collection, and more.
Over the coming months, we plan to buy plants so these skills can be practised further. Broadening what we do, allows people to stay involved in the polytunnels for much of the year rather than the short period of growing on plug plants – it is also a good activity for rainy days. This work is particularly important for people who find the more physical jobs around the farm difficult.
Volunteering with us
If you would like to learn more about us, or are interested in volunteering, please contact Suanne on 0151 666 5190 or complete our volunteer form. You do not need any experience in plants or horticulture—just a kind and patient heart. A full DBS check will be required.
