Unique organic farm to mark 25 years of sustainable growing in Clapham

Growing With Grace has been producing organic fruit and vegetables under two and a half acres of glass greenhouses for a quarter of a century. The co-operative also sources other organic produce and ingredients so customers can create fully organic meals.

Its award-winning farm shop, once named Best Small Organic Shop, offers a wide range of organic foods and ethical products, and delivers to customers within a 50-mile radius.

The business was established in 2000 when five Quakers took over the greenhouses, which had previously housed an intensive plant nursery. The soil was in poor condition, and it took two years of planting grasses and clovers to restore fertility.

Their efforts were rewarded in 2001, when the Soil Association granted Growing With Grace full organic status.

At the heart of the business are four core principles drawn from Quaker values: Sustainable Agriculture, producing local food free from pesticides or chemicals; Equitable Employment, ensuring equal treatment and pay for all; Fair Trade, supporting the growers and producers who supply them; and Workplace Spirituality, fostering a respectful and nurturing environment for mind, body and spirit.

Freshly picked pumpkins being sorted at Growing With Grace(Image: Growing With Grace)

Founder member Neil Marshall said: “At the heart of our idea is the creation of a contented, committed workforce that understands how to nurture the land.”

Over the past 25 years, Growing With Grace has earned a reputation for excellent produce and personal service. It stands as a working model for sustainable food production, reducing the need for long-distance transport and promoting local resilience.

The co-operative has faced challenges, including the Credit Crunch, the Covid pandemic and storm damage to its greenhouses, but continues to thrive thanks to the dedication of its team and loyal customers.

Looking ahead, Growing With Grace plans to enhance its environmental credentials by installing solar panels, heat pumps, EV charging points, and switching to electric vehicles.

It is also partnering with the Yorkshire Dales Millennium Trust to supply wildflowers for local meadows and propagate trees for planting. A new Green Wellbeing Project will invite people to learn about organic horticulture and sustainability in a friendly, community setting.

Growing With Grace will celebrate 25 years on November 8.

For more information, visit www.growingwithgrace.org.uk or find them on Facebook and Instagram.