Welcome to our monthly “Meet the Maker” series, where we spotlight the incredible suppliers that we work with at Bayley & Sage. With today being St. George’s Day, it felt like a fitting time to feature our English asparagus.
The Heart of the New Forest
Nestled in the stunning New Forest, where wild horses, cows, and even pigs roam freely across the heathland, our asparagus is grown in one of the most picturesque and ecologically rich regions of England. This beautiful landscape is known for its unique microclimate, providing ideal conditions for agriculture. The New Forest, one of the largest expanses of unenclosed pastures, heaths, and forests in the country, offers the perfect environment for growing high-quality produce.
In this lush setting, agriculture thrives in harmony with nature. Our asparagus is cultivated without the use of pesticides or herbicides. The farmers we work with adhere to a natural, hands-on approach, even pulling weeds by hand to preserve the purity of the land. By letting nature take its course, they produce an asparagus that is not only sustainable but also a true reflection of the region’s rich heritage.
Sustainable Farming Practices
Our commitment to sustainability extends beyond just the asparagus we grow. The farm operates with environmentally friendly practices, harnessing solar energy, creating wildlife corridors to support pollination, and collecting rainwater for irrigation. These eco-conscious methods ensure that farming activities coexist with nature, allowing both to thrive in unison.
The emphasis on sustainability helps create a positive environmental impact, ensuring that the New Forest’s beauty remains intact. As a result, each bundle of asparagus that reaches your table has been grown in harmony with the land, bringing the freshest and most flavourful produce to your plate while supporting a healthy ecosystem.
How to Serve Our English Asparagus
Our asparagus arrives at your table in perfect condition, carefully graded to ensure only the highest quality. With juicy stems and delicate spring buds, it’s a versatile vegetable that can be prepared in many delicious ways. For a simple yet elegant dish, try slicing the asparagus into diagonal strips, then lightly boil or fry it in extra virgin olive oil. For an added burst of flavour, drizzle with balsamic vinegar or sprinkle with freshly shaved Parmigiano.
Our asparagus pairs wonderfully with a crisp salad or can be served alongside pan-fried salmon for a light, nutritious meal. It’s also the perfect accompaniment to a chilled glass of Protero Aromatico white wine, making it an ideal choice for those warmer evenings when the season is changing and the days are getting longer.