South West Care Homes’ gardens are getting busy, and not just with flowers. Across the group, residents and teams are rolling up sleeves to grow everything from fresh herbs to seasonal vegetables, with some homes even exploring the sweet possibility of honey.

It’s practical, it’s purposeful, and it’s quietly brilliant. A few pots of basil and a row of runner beans might look modest on the surface, but behind them sits something bigger: a shared commitment to our green agenda and a more sustainable future.

From windowsill herbs to harvest baskets

For many residents, gardening is familiar territory. For others, it’s a new adventure. Either way, it offers a lovely blend of gentle activity, teamwork, and that unmistakable feeling of “we made this”.

• Herbs: mint for tea, rosemary for roasts, thyme for soups, chives for salads.

• Vegetables: lettuces, tomatoes, courgettes, peas, beans, and whatever else the season allows.

• And maybe honey: early conversations in some homes are looking at how we could responsibly support pollinators and, in time, produce honey as part of a wider biodiversity effort.

The best bit? Residents get to see the full journey. Plant. Water. Wait. Pick. Taste. Repeat. It’s the opposite of throwaway culture, and it’s surprisingly powerful. 

Why we’re doing it

Yes, growing food in our gardens helps reduce food miles. But the real aim is broader: it’s about creating habits and systems that support a greener way of living, right where we are.

Our green agenda encompasses policies, initiatives, and everyday practices aimed at promoting environmental sustainability and tackling climate change. For South West Care Homes, it’s a comprehensive strategy to transition towards a greener, more sustainable future and to work towards net zero.

And that isn’t just a statement on a page. It shows up in daily choices, from what we buy, to how we manage waste, to how we care for our buildings and grounds.