Whilst on holiday we discovered a phenomenon that is pure, unadulterated Guernsey and – more than any other – sums up islanders’ approach to life. It’s nothing to do with politics, religion or philosophy. Rather, it’s all about vegetables and the way islanders love to buy and sell them from makeshift stalls at the side of the road. Welcome to the world of hedge veg.
Hit the islands’ country roads and you will soon spot it. The telltale signs are easy to detect – the car in front weaves around some hasty parking, a gaggle of locals are chatting on the verge next to some homespun ‘retail outlet’, fashioned from a table, crate or even driftwood. There will also be a hand written sign, promoting today’s offering. But what is most significant is that there will also be a small tin, box or even a milk churn – for shoppers to pay for their purchases. It all relies on honesty and it works. In an age of locks, security cameras and rising crime it’s reassuring to know that there is still somewhere where the people prefer to work on trust.
And there is certainly no shortage of stock. Anything from tomatoes, cucumbers, lettuce, carrots and potatoes to roses, carnations, freesias and even felt flowers. Aside from the occasional crustacean, much of it originates from commercially sized greenhouses, which are still commonplace, whilst the remainder is pulled from kitchen gardens. Whatever its origins, Hedge Veg is the modern equivalent of bartering surplus home-grown produce with your neighbours. In Guernsey, that means the whole island. Long may it continue and spread!
after a bit of discussion on twitter we thought we’d see if we could find and share uk hedge veg hotspots! have a look at our map and see if there is one near you!! if you know of any comment and we’ll add them!
