Reflections of a Retiring Herb Farmer
By Richard White
Over the years I have written numerous articles on growing herbs and their uses. I remember some time ago an article concerning perennial herbs and the different sub groups of perennials. There are hardy perennials that can survive most winters here on Vancouver Island.
Half hardy perennials that can take a frost of -5C and after that are in danger of dying, and tender perennials that must be brought in somewhere warmer for the winter months. There was also another category of perennials listing how long they usually lived. Short lived usually around five years, middle of the road perennials that last ten or more years. Then finally herbs that last for a really long time.
I have always felt that the plant world is mirrored in the human world. And that the qualities of perennials are very similar to Homo sapiens. Some of us can live in very cold climates while others need somewhere warm year round.
Life spans also vary greatly exactly the same as the plants described above. At this point in my life I feel somewhat like a hardy perennial that has lasted a really long time. It was 1987 when Hazelwood first opened its doors to the public and after 23 years in business this grower, gardener, cook and writer has reached the end of this stage in life. It is time to let go and start all over again: hopefully as another hardy perennial that is long lived!
So it is with mixed emotions that I share with you that my time at Hazelwood has come to an end. The farm was sold in early December to a local family who will begin running the operation in early February. I will certainly miss the daily contact with customers, emails and phone calls of questions, queries and encouragement.
Writing for the Herbal Collective since its inception and for each and every issue was at times challenging. However I enjoyed writing all of my articles, and find it fun sometimes to go back in to my archives and look at what I wrote almost fifteen years ago.
Thanks go to Marilyn Zink the publisher for approaching me at the farm and convincing me to write articles for the magazine. And to you the readers who certainly have made life enjoyable and at times surprising. I never knew when or where a reader would come up to me, say hello and ask a few questions.
I am looking forward to retirement which will allow more time with family and friends and the ability to travel. I will certainly keep growing herbs in my new garden and encourage everyone to grow some plants that can add great flavour to your table.
As always Happy Gardening and Healthy Eating.
Richard White was co-owner of Hazelwood Herb Farm, Ladysmith, B.C.
View a video of herb gardening with Richard at www.herbguide.ca.