Glasshouse Environment
Since the late 1990’s we have utilised waste CO2 from our energy source to enrich the environment for growing tomato plants within the glasshouse.
Rainwater that falls on the glasshouse roofs is collected and re-used for the tomato plants. Energy saving screens reduce heat loss and save energy.
Our tomato plants are grown in a sustainable compostable growing medium such as coir. At the end of the season all tomato plant material is shredded and composted.
Energy Generation
Combined heat and power (CHP) engines on site are used to produce electricity, which is connected to the grid and powers up to 25,000 homes. The waste heat and CO2 from the engines is used in the greenhouses for the production of tomatoes.
Using waste and working with nature
We have reduced our reliance on natural gas from grid, instead using straw from our own farm and others nearby to fuel our biomass straw boiler. This green energy source generates heat for the glasshouses.
We like to farm our land with an emphasis on soil health and encouraging natural processes to combat pests and diseases. By using crop rotation and cover crops, including sheep grazing and less tillage we have enhanced our soil biodiversity. We are trialling pollen and nectar rich species to further improve natural pollination.
In our local area, over the last 30 years, we have taken great pleasure in planting mixed, native hedging and over 3200 trees from alders to yews
Committed to reinvestment
We continue to invest in new technology, innovation and ways to be as efficient and resourceful as possible.