Blog

Mission Statement: At Applegarth Greenhouse we are dedicated to fostering a sustainable, community-driven approach to local food production through the use of cold-frame greenhouses. Our mission is to empower individuals, families, and small farmers with the resources, knowledge, and shared infrastructure needed to extend growing seasons, increase food security, and promote ecological stewardship.

By collaborating in the spirit of mutual aid, we provide affordable access to cold frame greenhouse space, sustainable gardening techniques, and organic cultivation methods. We are committed to reducing environmental impact, enhancing biodiversity, and cultivating a resilient, self-sufficient community rooted in ethical growing practices and regenerative agriculture.

Together, we nurture not just plants, but a thriving ecosystem of support, education, and shared abundance for the benefit of all.

Here is a list of Activities for the Gem Valley Cold-Fram Farmers Greenhouse Cooperative

Greenhouse Cultivation & Crop Production

• • • Cold-Frame Seed Starting – Growing seedlings in cold frames for transplanting in gardens.
    • Year-Round Vegetable & Herb Production – Using cold frames for seasonal greens, root crops, and herbs.
    • Propagation of Perennials & Native Plants – Raising fruit-bearing bushes, trees, and medicinal plants.
    • Microgreens & Sprouts Growing – Fast-growing greens for local markets and members.
    • Heirloom Seed Preservation – Growing and collecting heirloom seeds to maintain genetic diversity.
    • Compost & Soil Regeneration – Creating nutrient-rich soil using organic composting techniques

Community & Educational Workshops

• • • Cold-Frame Building Workshops – Teaching members how to construct their own cold frames.
    • Permaculture & Regenerative Agriculture Training – Exploring sustainable growing methods.
    • Herbal Medicine & Wildcrafting Classes – Learning the medicinal and magical uses of plants.
    • Mushroom Cultivation Workshops – Growing gourmet and medicinal mushrooms in controlled conditions.
    • Beekeeping & Pollinator Habitat Building – Encouraging biodiversity with local pollinators.
    • Seasonal Foraging Walks & Wild Edibles Identification – Guided walks for plant identification.
    • Candle-Making & Herbal Crafts – Using greenhouse-grown botanicals for crafts.
    • Greenhouse Vermiculture (Worm Composting) – Managing worm farms for nutrient-rich soil.
    • Soil Testing & Regenerative Practices – Teaching about soil health and organic amendments.

Cooperative & Economic Activities

• • Farmers’ Market Stand & CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) – Selling fresh greenhouse produce locally.
  • Herb & Seed Exchange – Encouraging diversity through seed and plant sharing.
  • Collective Bulk Purchasing – Group buying of soil amendments, seeds, tools, and supplies.
  • Value-Added Product Development – Creating dried herbs, tinctures, syrups, and preserves.
  • Cold-Frame Business Incubation – Supporting members in launching small farm businesses.
  • Educational Tours & Membership Open Houses – Engaging the public with greenhouse operations.
  • Seasonal Farm-to-Table Dinners – Showcasing greenhouse-grown ingredients in community meals.
  • Online Sales & Marketing for Greenhouse Goods – Selling plants, seeds, and crafts online.
  • Local Partnerships with Restaurants & Herbalists – Supplying fresh ingredients and botanicals.
  • Barter & Trade Events – Strengthening community ties through trade.

Sustainability & Environmental Stewardship

• • Rainwater Harvesting & Irrigation Workshops – Efficient water use for greenhouse farming.
  • Solar Greenhouse Heating Experiments – Implementing passive heating methods.
  • Biodiversity Conservation Programs – Protecting native plants and pollinators.
  • Aquaponics & Hydroponics in Cold Frames – Exploring water-based growing systems.
  • DIY Natural Pest Control & Companion Planting – Learning organic pest management techniques.
  • Renewable Energy for Greenhouse Use – Exploring wind, solar, and alternative energy.
  • Tree Grafting & Agroforestry Education – Encouraging fruit tree diversity.
  • Climate-Resilient Farming Practices – Adapting growing techniques for changing weather patterns.
  • Zero-Waste Greenhouse Management – Implementing sustainable practices.

Seasonal & Community Events

• • Spring Seedling & Plant Sale – Selling starts for home gardeners.
  • Harvest Festivals & Community Celebrations – Seasonal gatherings for cooperative members.
  • Winter Solstice Herbal Gatherings – Exploring ancient herbal traditions.
  • Cold-Frame Crop Tasting Events – Showcasing different crops grown in cold frames.
  • Herbal Tea & Infusion Tastings – Featuring medicinal and magical blends.
  • Garden Blessings & Rituals for the Land – Honoring the spiritual connection to farming.