The flax planted at Abernodwydd garden was pulled up over three sessions during August, then stored in the barn in bundled stooks, allowing it to dry and the seed bolls to develop.

Then we rippled and winnowed the seed on a blowy September, in the yard of the farmhouse where it was grown.

There’s evidence of flax growing on the original farmland way back. And just up the road, at Caerau hill fort, there’s evidence of flaxseed and spindles at a neolithic site.

This year’s plants are tall and fine, with good seed yield too. Some is already hedge retted, some we’ll grass ret now, and some we’ll save dried, for spring/summer tank retting next year.

The cycle of growth and making with nature is always a wonder!

Many hands have made this work. Thanks to all and the earth, and huge gratitude to Global Gardens and St Fagan’s Museum.