TV: Cork couple tap into power of organic food

The power of small-scale organic growing in Cork is explored in the next episode of Home Grown on RTÉ1 on Wednesday at 8pm.

Presenter Colm O’Driscoll visits Kildinan Farm in North Cork to meet Sheila and Rory Magorrian (pictured on cover of TV Week), small-scale growers specialising in organic salad crops.

Colm spends the day learning about their dedication to growing naturally, and promoting public awareness about organic farming.

They share the challenges and rewards of organic growing, showcasing how natural methods can deliver high quality produce while supporting local communities. Also in the episode, we learn about biochar - hailed as a sustainable growing solution

Biochar is a charcoal-like product made from biomass waste such as wood or agricultural waste, paper mill waste or other biological residues.

In Roscommon, Colm explores its potential with Shane Layden from Arigna Group, learning about what it is and its benefits as a soil enhancer.

Colm then heads to Kildare where microbiologist Dr Karen O’Hanlon of Probio Carbon in Maynooth, explains how inoculating biochar with beneficial bacteria promotes good plant health, reduces chemical use, and enhances biodiversity.

Horticulturist Richard Bradley, shares his first hand success stories from using biochar in horticulture.

Also in Home Grown, presenter Kitty Scully visits Nightpark Nursery in Kildare to meet Thérèse and Michael Duffey, who along with daughter Niamh showcase their expert seed collection and plant propagation techniques.

This small nursery is making waves on the European market with the specialist propagation, and produces up to 50,000 plants per week in peak season, encompassing 600 species.

Kitty learns how their nursery has become a key supplier in Ireland and Europe.

In Drogheda, Kitty explores the Townley Hall Garden, a no-dig, regenerative, organic community project at the School of Philosophy and Economic Science.

She meets School Principal Rosemary Fitzpatrick, Student Team Leader Hilda Crampton, and many of the volunteers who grow fresh produce specifically for the charity Food Cloud.

Kitty highlights the garden’s impact on food security and community wellbeing, and how giving back can be very rewarding.

This is the third series of Home Grown, celebrating horticulture and its champions across Ireland.