Chestnut Nursery in Poole, run by mental health charity Plants and Minds, has launched a new section for “artisan foody gifts” in the run-up to Christmas.
The centre said this includes “up to 75 per cent of the produce” sourced from suppliers in Dorset and the south west.
The garden centre supports adults with mental health conditions and said the new section will help to support the centre during the “quieter season in the gardening calendar”.
Chestnut Nursery launches artisan food gift section ahead of festive season (Image: Supplied)
Andy Verreck, manager at Chestnut Nursery, said: “While plants and gardening remain at the heart of everything we do at Chestnut, we know our customers can’t resist edible treats, especially during the festive season.
“Not only will our new artisan food gift area support local suppliers of edible produce, but it will ensure Chestnut continues to thrive during the quieter season in the gardening calendar, when income is essential to maintain our horticultural therapy programme.”
The new department features produce including Dorset Shortbread, Sunshine Chocolates, Moore’s hand-baked traditional biscuits, and drinks from Somerset-based Harth Hot Chocolate and Dorset Ginger.
There is also a range of nuts, olives, pesto and food seasoning from local businesses.
Honey from an apiary near Poole Park, jams, curds, chutneys and sauces from Mrs Darlington’s are also included.
Chestnut Nursery has also increased its selection of garden and plant-themed giftware for those seeking presents for gardening enthusiasts.
The nursery does not have a café or offer any catering facilities and all food items are sold for consumption off-site.
The nursery supports adults with life-impacting mental health conditions, known as team members, enhancing their wellbeing through a year-round programme of horticultural therapy.
Staff, team members, and volunteer Friends of the Nursery collaborated to create the new food gift area.
This was done in time for Chestnut’s first Black Friday event, which will run from Friday, November 28 to Monday, December 1.
During this event, customers will be able to enjoy 10 per cent off everything at the nursery, excluding Christmas trees and gift vouchers.
Chestnut Nursery is located at 75 Kingland Road, Poole, BH15 1TN and is open seven days a week.
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