Cornwall Flower Farm: Starting Our Journey on 5.5 Acres
Cornwall Flower Farm: From Planning Consent to First Planting
Our Cornwall flower farm has officially received planning consent from Cornwall Council, allowing us to step onto the land and begin cultivating flowers. This milestone is the start of an exciting journey that we have dreamed about for years.
The farm is near Cheesewring Farm, where we enjoyed the hospitality of John and his family while camping above the Netherton Farm barefield site near Upton Cross, Liskeard. The views from Cheesewring show the beauty and ruggedness of the South East Cornish landscape our Cornwall flower farm is now part of.
The farm spans 5.5 acres of south-east sloping land. Previously grazed by an organic suckler herd and recently topped for silage, the field provides fertile ground for flower cultivation. Yet, challenges exist, including the presence of wireworm, which can damage tubers, bulbs, and roots over several years.
To manage this, our Cornwall flower farm will use biofumigation. We will grow a hot mustard cover crop called ‘Caliente 199.’ Turning it into the soil releases natural compounds that suppress wireworm and other soil-borne diseases. Additionally, lime will be added to raise soil pH from 5.1 to a more plant-friendly level, preparing beds for flowers.
This careful preparation ensures our Cornwall flower farm can thrive sustainably. Each step reflects our commitment to ecological practices, community stewardship, and responsible flower farming in Cornwall.
Our journal will document the farm’s progress, from initial planning consent to planting, soil preparation, and eventual harvest. By sharing this story, we hope to inspire others interested in ecological and cooperative farming while building a flourishing Cornwall flower farm.
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