As May and June have seen unprecedented temperatures, including this week, we thought we would give you a peek into how we are coping. While those enjoying weekends and holidays can relax along our beautiful sunshine coast, the team at Westlands Farm and its two local farm shops are far too busy to enjoy a day at the seaside.
Luckily for the herd of New Zealand Romney sheep, the farm undertook an early shearing this year; normally a task undertaken after the lambing season, when the fleeces are at their largest, the sheep were sheared in January. As the team decided it would be best to bring the flock into the warm polytunnels to monitor them before lambing. The early shearing also helped the newborn lambs suckle quickly and easily, and has meant that the flock are already well prepared for this year’s scorching weather.
Unfortunately, though, the work doesn’t stop there. In May, the team at Westlands Farm undertook early preventative treatment to keep the flock in good condition, administering Heptavac to prevent clostridial diseases, along with a fly prevention spray, as flies can be deadly to sheep. Keeping them happy and healthy before they’re taken out to larger pastures. As temperatures are reaching 17-18 degrees at 6am, this meant an early start for everyone, especially sheepdog Mo. Work was undertaken swiftly, and the sheep were quickly escorted back to their grazing, where they enjoyed the shade of the nearby trees and bushes.
Next up is checking on the seedlings and fruit plants, ensuring they’re getting all nutrients needed, and that the biological bug prevention is working effectively. This eco-friendly approach reduces chemical use and fosters healthy crops by utilising beneficial predators, but it does require constant monitoring.
All the strawberries and raspberries produced by the farm are sustainably grown and hand-picked, a long and arduous task in the heat, but thankfully one that is undertaken undercover, offering protection from UV and UVB rays. Topped up with lots of suncream, hats, and refreshments, each team member is able to pick around 800 punnets per day. Grown in Hampshire soil, each bite offers a burst of fresh sweetness and makes a delicious addition to almost any meal.
All of that hard work results in a range of incredible produce available at both Westlands Farm Shop in Wickham and in the heart of Winchester. Come and try it for yourself.
