Adaptation Agriculture: Landrace Gardener and Author Joseph Lofthouse at Lauriston Agroecology Farm

We're excited to present this rare opportunity to our seed and plant breeding networks in Scotland - join us for a discussion around adaptation agriculture, landrace gardening, and biodiverse crowd breeding with US plant breeder and author Joseph Lofthouse! This is a must-see event for any growers interested in plant breeding, landraces, increasing plant genetic diversity, and growing food in increasingly challenging climate conditions.

Joseph adopted the principles of adaptation agriculture in response to the harsh growing conditions in a high-altitude, short-season, desert garden. Instead of relying on expensive pesticides, labour, and materials to coddle the plants, he encourages genetic diversity, cross-pollination, and survival of the fittest, allowing the plants to adapt to the current and ever-changing ecosystem, thus simplifying farming and seed saving. Joseph authored Landrace Gardening: Food Security Through Biodiversity and Promiscuous Pollination. He devotes himself to helping gardeners and farmers grow healthy plants with less stress and empowering communities to adapt seeds to their local conditions.

The day will start with a talk by Joseph, followed by Q&A and discussion. Attendees are welcome to bring their own lunch to enjoy together for an informal chat after the proceedings.

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The event will take place at Lauriston Agroecology Farm, a ground-breaking community urban agriculture initiative in Edinburgh. Please take care when navigating the site as it is a working market garden and community growing space with crops in the ground and equipment nearby. There is limited parking available, and public transport is encouraged. More details on travel and logistics will be sent on to all attendees. 

This event is organised through a collaboration of Abundant Borders and the Gaia Foundation's Seed Sovereignty Programme with support from Borders Organic Gardeners. The cost of the event is covered by the Seed Sovereignty Programme, but any contribution towards Joseph's travel to the UK is much appreciated, either through the ticket donation option or through this link: https://ko-fi.com/josephlofthouseauthor