Freshly Harvested Produce
At the summit of the Estate, the flourishing Kitchen Garden stands as a vibrant centre of seasonal produce and flavours, meticulously harvested daily by the dedicated Estate Team. Embracing a ‘field to fork’ philosophy, Combe Grove promotes whole body health and wellbeing while pursuing self sufficiency. This commitment to sustainability is central to the food ethos, with any produce not sourced directly from the garden being locally acquired to minimise the carbon footprint.
No Dig & No Waste
The Kitchen Garden follows a no dig, no waste approach, which supports a thriving soil biome and cultivates robust, nutrient dense plants. By avoiding soil disturbance, natural processes and the mycelium network are preserved, enhancing nutrient bioavailability and plant health. Organic matter is added to the soil, allowing earthworms to naturally enrich it. This method not only maintains soil moisture but also contributes to the overall vitality of the vegetables. The resulting produce benefits from superior nutrient density due to the maintenance and enhancement of the soil’s natural fertility.
The Orchard & Hedgerows
Adjacent to the Kitchen Garden, a heritage apple orchard and a row of edible hedges, featuring blackcurrants and gooseberries, provide a rich source of vitamin C and antioxidants. Additionally, the fruit trees serve as nourishment for birds and badgers, and attract pollinators such as moths, which are important for the diet of bats.
During the summer, the garden is alive with colourful flora, including towering sunflowers and fragrant sweet peas. Nectar rich plants are prioritised to support pollinators and foster biodiversity within the ecosystem.
Meet our Rescue Chickens
A visit to the Kitchen Garden also includes the chance to interact with friendly rescue chickens. Clients attending the Metabolic Health Retreat have the opportunity to collect fresh eggs from these birds each morning, enhancing their immersive experience on the Estate.
