Organic September

Organic September is the Soil Association’s annual celebration of organic food and farming

Celebrating Organic September 🌱

Organic September, is a chance to recognise the farmers and growers who choose to produce food in a way that works with nature.

At the heart of organic farming are the principles of health, ecology, fairness and care. Organic farmers work without artificial fertilisers, GM crops and synthetic pesticides, while certified organic farms must meet strict standards covering everything from soil health and biodiversity to animal welfare. It’s a system that asks farmers to think not only about the food they produce, but about the health of their land and the wildlife and ecosystems that surround it.

You can see those principles in practice at Wild Country Organics, one of our longstanding organic growers. Based near Cambridge, the farm has been organic since 1988 and is run by Dr Adrian Izzard, who pioneered growing an extraordinary range of organic vegetables, salads and Oriental leaves in glasshouses without artificial heating. From tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers and aubergines in summer to rocket, pak choi, mustard greens, herbs and winter vegetables as the seasons change, Wild Country shows just how varied British organic growing can be.

For an even closer look, we’ll be sharing an article by Cheryl Cohen, former Director of London Farmers’ Markets, about her visit to Wild Country Organics. Cheryl played an important part in the development of our markets over many years, so it’s particularly lovely to revisit the farm through her eyes and hear directly about the people, growing methods and hard work behind the produce customers see piled high on the market stall each week.

Organic September is a great reminder that when you shop at a farmers’ market, you can do more than simply buy your vegetables – you can meet the people who grow them, ask how they’re produced and learn more about the farms and landscapes your food comes from.

Read Cheryl Cohen’s visit to Wild Country Organics 

You can also find out more about Organic September and what organic certification means through the Soil Association.

Our new Highbury Fields Farmers Market which runs weekly 10am to 2pm on Sundays is establishing well and going from strength to strength. Come and enjoy the market. Click here for details.