Highlights From The Garden

The garden is a special part of Lothlorien. The community find it to be -

"A peaceful place."

"Somewhere that allows them the freedom to play and discover things they didn't know about before."

"It offers a great reason to be active outdoors, especially in this good weather we've had over the summer. The rewards of that activity are feeling part of a team, knowing you've learnt new skills and, of course, an abundant harvest." Which provides all of our community members with delicious fresh healthy food which we all value enormously.

Marvellous Marshmallow



Nick has chosen to grow several unusual plants this year. This project grew from his love of marshmallows. "However", he says, "they are not vegetarian. I learned that you can make marshmallows from the root of this plant. It also has many medicinal properties. They are good for coughs and colds. You can also make a balm with it." Hopefully we'll have some vegan marshmallows to try later in the year.

Keeping Trim



We have many many metres of hedges at Lothlorien. They protect the fruit and vegetables from strong winds and create separate garden 'rooms' which are havens for wildlife and peaceful spaces for residents. At this time of year, once the birds have finished nesting, we get to work trimming back the new growth. Luke tackles this big challenge and keeps going until every inch is done. A very rewarding feeling with a real sense of achievement.

Mini Melons

Another fruitful experiment!

This time in the polytunnel, where the successful growing of mini melons took place. They belong to the curcubit family, therefore related to the cucumber, but requiring more heat and a longer growing season. These hot spells we've been having have certainly benefitted the melons. They will be a welcome addition to the fruit bowl very soon.

We are delighted to be strengthening our relationship with Tara Rokpa. For over a year, our Garden Coordinator, Michael, has been facilitating weekly Tara Rokpa sessions at Lothlorien, bringing this compassionate and practical approach to wellbeing into our community.

We are especially pleased to congratulate Michael on completing the Tara Rokpa Elements Short Course Facilitator training at the 28th International Tara Rokpa Summer Camp in Germany this July.

Rooted in the teachings of Akong Rinpoche and enriched by Western psychotherapy traditions, Tara Rokpa is based on the belief that every person has an innate capacity for healing and growth. Michael's training marks another step in the growing partnership between Lothlorien and Tara Rokpa, and we look forward to continuing this valuable collaboration.

Life at Lothlorien is full of comings and goings. These last few months we have welcome two new staff members and two residential volunteers. Here's a little bit about them.....

Jane

"It feels wonderful to return to Lothlorien. My journey here began as a volunteer before I transitioned into a staff role. I then spent time working with a local mental health organisation, expanding my mental health experience locally. I am grateful for the warm welcome I have received since returning, and I am pleased to be back on the team as a sessional worker."

Joe

Joe has joined as a volunteer from Arran and Holy Isle. He plays the guitar, & warbles. His favourite vegetable is, of course, the beetroot. Some highlights so far have been herding the cows out of the garden and surviving the now infamous Corsock quiz night .

Jolanda

"Lothlorien has played a massive role in my personal history. When I was still living in the Netherlands 23 years ago, I decided to live and work as a volunteer in Lothlorien for 6 months, inspired by the aim and ethics of this place. Little did I know that that decision changed the course of my life. Back in the Netherlands I felt how much I missed the Scottish countryside and the slower pace of living and I decided to come back to this country indefinitely.

All these years later I’m back at Lothlorien in this different role and although a lot has changed, Lothlorien hasn’t lost any of its magic and integrity. I’m very happy to have the opportunity to make my little contribution to it."

Liam

Liam joined Lothlorien to volunteer earlier this year. Hailing from Aberdeen. He says his experience at Lothlorien has been transformative. After spending years working in an office he has seen significant improvements in both his mental and physical health. Which is amazing to hear.

Environmental artist, Kerry Morrison joined us for an afternoon of banner making. Inspired by the Land Notes Festival which explores our connection to the land at a time of significant change. Bringing people together to celebrate the treasured places, species, memories, and landscapes that shape our lives, whether it’s a favourite tree, a cherished view, or a hidden corner of the Glenkens. Lothlorien will be joining the banner parade on the 23rd August in New Galloway at 2pm. Why not come along, there's a picnic and sausage sizzle. For more information go to the GCat website https://gcat.scot/arts/