OGPod Episode 14: Pete Dollimore and Hankham Organics + The Montessori Place

James speaks to Pete Dollimore, previously of Hankham Organics in Sussex and now an instructor at The Montesorri Place. Pete is an absolute fountain of knowledge, particularly about protected cropping, which is so important to many organic growers. At Hankham Organics, Pete oversaw production in 7000m2 of glasshouse - an incredible opportunity but one with an endless learning curve. We delve deep into irrigation systems, managing fertility, dealing with the peaks and troughs of production, timings, the hungry gap, tomatoes and more. Towards the end of the episode, Pete reflects on his more recent experience of running a small min-till market garden with the help of a few dozen teenage students at The Montesorri Place School. This podcast is brought to you by the Organic Growers Alliance, the UK's only grower-led organisation providing technical and practical advice and support on organic growing. For more information about the OGA head to www.organicgrowersalliance.co.uk and become a member.Liv James is taking the reins from James Butterworth as host in 2026. Liv has been a grower for 10 years mainly at Down Farm Market Garden in Devon and is now a storyteller at Soil Association. Alongside this Liv is a plant nut, wordsmith, music lover, life enthusiast, surfer and Mum.