Talking biodynamics and biodiversity in growing cut flowers with Alfie Nickerson - Episode 211

Alfie Nickerson is a biodynamic flower farmer making his mark in British horticulture, and his 3,500-strong dahlia field, buzzing with wildlife, is testament to that.After working for 6 years as a jobbing gardener in London, and then volunteering at Fern Verrow – the biodynamic farm of previous guest Jane Scotter – Alfie describes his journey in creating the biodiverse haven that is Burnt Fen Flowers, as well as sharing his favourite annuals and dahlias, on this week’s episode of ‘grow, cook, eat, arrange’.In this episode, discover:Alfie’s early gardening experiences in London, and what drew him to the Norfolk countrysideThe incredible work behind Burnt Fen’s biodynamic flower cropHow they prioritise biodiversity in their practices, and what that biodiversity gives back to the landAlfie’s absolute favourite varieties of annuals and dahlias for cuttingVisit Burnt Fen Flowers: https://burntfenflowers.com/Products mentioned:Ammi majushttps://www.sarahraven.com/products/ammi-majusHelichrysum bracteatum 'White' (Sunflower)https://www.sarahraven.com/products/helichrysum-bracteatum-whiteZinnia elegans 'Giant Purple Prince'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/zinnia-elegans-giant-purple-princePapaver somniferum 'Black Swan'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/papaver-somniferum-black-swanDahlia 'Jowey Winnie'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/dahlia-jowey-winnieFollow Sarah: https://www.instagram.com/sarahravenperchhill/See our events: https://www.sarahraven.com/courses-eventsGet in touch: [email protected] on the Sarah Raven Website: https://www.sarahraven.com/Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahravensgarden/Follow Sarah: https://www.instagram.com/sarahravenperchhill/Order Sarah’s latest books: https://www.sarahraven.com/gifts/gardening-books?sort=newest