MY STORY
My name is Gwen Petitpierre. twenty eight years ago, a profound shift occurred. The anxieties of motherhood, amplified by the ubiquitous chemicals in our food system, ignited a fierce protective instinct, which grew when my second daughter was born and thus began a journey of exploration, learning and deeper understanding. The question echoed in my mind: What am I feeding them? The answer, unsettling, propelled me on a journey back to the earth, a path paved with Victorian gardening wisdom and a deep respect for the soil's intricate life. I rediscovered the forgotten art of nurturing the earth, mirroring the way our great-grandmothers might have, coaxing forth robust, healthy plants without resorting to chemical shortcuts. The secret, I learned, lay in the soil itself; its teeming microorganisms, the invisible army that sustains life.
My fascination with Victorian walled gardens proved invaluable. Their methods revealed the fundamental truth: feed the soil, feed the plant. The practice resonated deeply; it was holistic, sustainable, a harmonious dance between humans and nature. I became acquainted with companion planting, the elegant art of arranging plants to bolster each other's growth and fend off pests. Imagine a vibrant tapestry of life, each plant playing a crucial role in maintaining the balance. No more chemical warfare, just gentle nurturing and patient observation. This approach isn't just about producing food; it's about creating thriving ecosystems, bursting with life and beauty.
Today, my organically certified plant foods are a testament to this philosophy. They're safe for children, pets, and wildlife, a gentle promise of healthy growth. More importantly, they work. They deliver on the promise of vibrant blooms, bountiful harvests, and healthy lawns, all without compromising the planet's wellbeing. My journey began with a mother's love and a seed of concern, but it has blossomed into a passion that nourishes not only plants but also the soul. It's a testament to the power of nature, the wisdom of the past, and the enduring hope of a brighter, healthier future.
Our products are now Award winning, having been voted strongest in terms of service excellence, marketing and branding, industry recognition, ethical practice, and employee satisfaction. We are Prestige Awards winner of Agricultural Supply Store Southern England 2025/2026.
With every bottle purchased, we will donate £1 to the Woodland Trust
THE FARM
Coldharbour Farm is owned by my parents, and as they have become older, they have utilised the land less, enabling me to rent a patch upon which to grow all the raw materials for my plant food . I rent a small barn area for processing, bottling and packing. It also means that I can be absolutely sure that they are grown in an Organic way, with no contamination.
Thank you again for your extensive and interesting discussion about our apple tree. We have been enjoying it very much. The first thing I would like to do is order the fertiliser! Mrs P, Harrogate
Gwen's plant foods provide amazing results. I will never sow another bean or pea without giving it a damn good overnight soaking in Leaf & Stem!
Excellent and friendly service, superb products - highly recommended