It seems the farther North one tries to grow, the more challenges one encounters, but as Nietzsche said, “that which does not kill us makes us stronger”. Logically then, Hannah Reid, known as Ginger Grows, must be amongst the strongest of all of us. Her allotmenteering story has unfolded almost as far North as it’s possible to go in England in Newcastle-upon-Tyne. Through her four years of growing, she’s shared tips, favourite varieties (zombie squash, anyone?), and her journey with fermenting and preserving her own food. Hannah loves nurturing and devouring her produce, but she’s also motivated by the environment. She places great value on understanding and positively contributing toward her carbon footprint, food miles, and greenhouse gas production. Composting returns the goodness to the Earth, which then circulates again through her plants. Connection to the seasons is also central to her appreciation for the growing cycle. Hannah recently took over the growing spaces of By The River Brew Co in Newcastle, delivering lush produce to feed the Geordie bellies with zero food miles or fertilisers involved. Whether it’s the allotment or this pro setup, Hannah believes that more businesses need to focus on sustainability and play their part, regardless of size.
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