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 countryside • The incredible work behind Burnt Fen’s biodynamic flower crop • How they prioritise biodiversity in their practices, and what that biodiversity gives back to the land • Alfie’s absolute favourite varieties of annuals and dahlias for cutting

Visit Burnt Fen Flowers: https://burntfenflowers.com/

Products mentioned:

Ammi majus https://www.sarahraven.com/products/ammi-majus Helichrysum bracteatum 'White' (Sunflower) https://www.sarahraven.com/products/helichrysum-bracteatum-white Zinnia elegans 'Giant Purple Prince' https://www.sarahraven.com/products/zinnia-elegans-giant-purple-prince Papaver somniferum 'Black Swan' https://www.sarahraven.com/products/papaver-somniferum-black-swan Dahlia 'Jowey Winnie' https://www.sarahraven.com/products/dahlia-jowey-winnie

Follow Sarah: https://www.instagram.com/sarahravenperchhill/

Get in touch: [email protected] Shop on the Sarah Raven Website: http://bit.ly/3jvbaeu Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahravensgarden/ Order Sarah’s latest books: https://www.sarahraven.com/gifts/gardening-books?sort=newest