The croft can create a wide range of produce. This can be seasonal, and thus only grown at certain times of year. Or, it can be dependent on availability.
We have had a range of livestock on the croft, and sometimes we have to adapt what we have, and how we do things due to other circumstances. While we use to have a small herd of cattle, we have more recently changed to rearing a couple of steers. Our cattle are grass fed, whether it be fresh, dried (hay) or pickled (silage) with occasional treats from a bucket to ensure good handling and to minimise their stress when we need to work with them. We usually send them off around the 30 month mark which can take patience but well worth the wait for the flavour. We occasionally have pigs, usually over spring and summer. Sheep are known to be frollicking the fields (or jumping fences) and numbers and breed of sheep can change.
Our veg garden, polytunnel and orchard provide plenty of fruit and veg during the summer months, with relishes, chutneys, jams, and jellies made to help preserve some for winter.
Hens have graced the croft, although we have lost some to local predators. We use to keep bees, however, when one of the family developed a serious allergy, we rehomed the bees.
As our produce is from our croft to your kitchen, feel free to ask any questions about our gardens or livestock, their welfare, or even regarding the meat itself.
Birchwood Croft, Inverness-shire 