As UK growers increasingly look for alternatives to conventional fertilisers, deputy editor Sarah Kidby spoke to Jason Colin of Natura Grow, to learn about a unique plant-based fertiliser that is gaining traction on vineyards and orchards in the UK.

The primary purpose of the Growing Kent & Medway (GK&M) programme is to support the plant-based food, drink and horticultural industries in the region, helping them to grow and thrive in the area.

An Essex-based engineer took on his first machinery franchise after working on a 30-year-old mower and being impressed by its longevity and build quality. Now a carefully selected range of specialist machinery brands is offered by the independent dealer – all backed by industry knowledge and personal service. David Williams reports.

Lidl bought over 3,000 tonnes of new season British apples in October, while Tesco fell short of its 2022 performance, according to sales figures from British Apples & Pears Limited (BAPL).

Two new funding streams are being made available by Growing Kent & Medway to back sustainable innovation and new technologies in the horticultural and plant-based food and drink sector.

The Vergenoegd Löw Wine Estate in South Africa says its flock of ducks contribute a balanced, healthy ecosystem in its vineyards – as well as adding an air of ‘intrigue and charm’ to the estate.

Husband-and-wife team Martyn Pollock and Helen Matheson-Pollock are committed to making small batch, estate-grown wines that are a true expression of their boutique vineyard in the heart of the Kent countryside. Rachel Hicks writes.

Having bought a vineyard with his wife 20 years ago, with the mentality “leap, and the net will appear”, Master Winemaker and consultant Justin Howard-Sneyd now advises his clients to look before they leap – helping them to find their ‘why?’ before they plant a vineyard.

The Crop Candle Company is proud to announce a significant milestone in its history. Fruit & Vine spoke with the company about its new Crop Candles and eight-hour refills now being manufactured in the UK, which result in much lower carbon emissions.

White Castle Vineyard scooped Best Overall Wine for its still red, Harry, and was presented with a trophy by the Welsh minister for rural affairs.

Emma Rice, one of the most respected UK winemakers, set up her own winemaking consultancy company earlier this year. Deputy editor Sarah Kidby caught up with Emma for some industry insights.

A new partnership between The Institute for Agriculture and Horticulture (TIAH) and Growing Kent & Medway hopes to entice a new generation into a career in horticultural food and drink production.