Phytofarm Herbal Learning Garden | Okuti Valley, Banks Peninsula

late autumn

For me, this is a favoured season, with the deciduous trees putting on their show of colours, the sunny warm days and the change to cooler night time temperatures.

The summer was, in general, a rewarding harvest season – dry and sunny; so different from last years wet conditions. Each year every plant seems to have its day – this year the Lavender crop was outstanding, but Calendula did not flourish as usual and we have noticed a lot of sheep sorrel growing amongst the Calendula plants, which is a sign that the soil is acidic. This can be rectified by adding lime in the form of dolomite or activating and balancing soil biology, by using effective micro-organisms (EM).

Currently, at Phytofarm, we are focused on the collection of berries and plants that have medicinal properties in their roots – Althaea officinalis (Marshmallow), Inula helenium (Elecampane), Valeriana officinalis (Valerian), Glycyrrhiza glabra (Licorice). The process is to dig the root, and wash and chop the roots for drying.

After the berry and root collection is completed and the firewood is stacked in the wood shed, it will be time for some rest & rejuvenation – on the couch with a good book.

products

Enjoy our luscious herbal body butters and creams, delightful tasting teas, infused medicinal oils, tonics and healing salves.

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medicinal oils

Our signature range of rich and colourful infused medicinal oils from carefully selected plants.

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workshops

Seasonal workshops and tours designed to explore the changes in the garden and use of plants to make fabulous products.

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apprenticeship

This programme offers a thorough instruction in the growing, harvesting, processing & manufacture of herbal products.

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our popular tisanes

BERRY NICE WARMING TISANE

A warming blend to fortify yourself for seasonal change.

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IMMUNE BOOST TISANE

Improves the function of your immune system.

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AROMATIC DIGESTIVE TISANE

A fragrant tisanes that calms the digestive system and refreshes the palate after eating.

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SLEEP WELL TISANE

The benefits of quietening, calming and sedative plants that help empty the head and prepare you for sleep.

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events and dates

Phytofarm Apprenticeship Programme
Enrolments are now open for the next intake in spring – November 2024. You can download the Apprenticeship Prospectus 2024/25 here and the Apprenticeship Application 2024/25 here.

2024/2025 dates:

• Spring: 8, 9, 10 & 11 November 2024
• Summer: 31 January, 1, 2 & 3 February 2025
• Autumn: 21, 22, 23 & 24 March 2025
• Winter: 23, 24, 25 & 26 May 2025

ENROL NOW FOR A NOVEMBER START!

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AUTUMN WELLBEING WORKSHOP: LEARN

In autumn, the workshop will focus on the value of roots and how berries provide valuable medicine. It includes blending a decoction from roots and berries in our drying room, a discussion of gut flora and our immune system and a medicinal vinegar, oxymel and nutritional syrup.

DATES (10am – 2pm ):

Tuesday, 7 May 2024

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PHYTOFARM WORKSHOPS – Time for a change of approach

The Phytofarm workshop programme has been offered since 2004 as an introduction to medicinal plants – the “how to” and “what plants” for each season.

While still holding the importance of seasonal living, the coming Phytofarm workshops will have a more specific approach.

First up in May: A DISTILLATION CLASS WITH HYDROSOLS

A Hydrosol is a herbal distillate that contains both micro-droplets of a plant’s essential oils and its water-soluble components. This watery substance is fragrant and usually (but not always) clear. Witch hazel, rosewater and lavender water; used to treat skin conditions, are the most commonly known Hydrosols.

Sunday, 26 May 2024 (10am – 2pm)

Includes:

From the Phytofarm kitchen- a tasty lunch
A take home 100ml of a Hydrosol preparation
A take home Product made from a Hydrosol

Topics presented:

Types of stills – copper versus stainless steel
An essential oil versus a Hydrosol
A list of plants used for Hydrosols

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Workshops that are booked can be canceled three days prior to receive a full refund. After this time no refunds will be given, but an alternative date can be booked for a 50% discount.

Customized workshops and garden tours can be created. Please contact Valmai at info@phytofarm.co.nz to discuss.

new products

the tisane sample box

Discover the fresh flavour and benefits of Phytofarm favourites. A collection of four tisanes to develop a daily ritual of tisane indulgence: Immune Boost, Aromatic Digestive, Sleep Well and Berry Nice Warming!

$ 25.00

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unisex natural deodorant

This product is formulated for men & women to target odour causing bacteria and is kind to the sensitive under arm skin with the inclusion of virgin coconut oil and aloe vera. Free from aluminium, parabens, and petroleum jelly.

50 ml $ 22.00

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sleep & de-stress balm

Sleep is essential to every process in the body, affecting our physical, mental and emotional ability to function. Getting enough quality sleep is vital for our immunity, metabolic function and to resist chronic disease. Use this balm for tight neck muscles, tension and spasms. Massage into the temples, around the base of the neck or across the forehead for inducing sleep and headaches.

40gms $18.50

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