Year-round organic potted herb production received a boost as a new 1.1 acre site at North Weald, Essex came into production this month.
Supported by the Defra Rural Enterprise Scheme, Premier Herbs grower David Ryther has invested over £750,000, following several years of research. The investment includes the use of organic coir, a by-product of coconut, as the basis for the substrate which has been approved by the Soil Association.
"Organic potted herbs are grown slowly, creating a more hardy product with rich characteristics of smell and taste," said Ryther.
He will ultimately have the capacity to grow two million pots a years, and is supplying Waitrose on an exclusive basis, through category manager Suncrop Produce.
The range which includes includes parsley, basil, chives, mint and opal basil, will be expanded to include seasonal lines such as sage, according to Adam Woodcock, Suncrop's marketing manager. “The results have already surpassed expectations, " he said.” Priced at £1.39 the pots are available to all stores.
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