Ballymaloe sowed the seeds of success
Well, not just the roses but most of the other fabulous produce, nearly all edible, which grows in the beautiful gardens and greenhouses of the organic farm in Shanagarry, where the school is situated. Our interview has turned into an impromptu stroll on a glorious late summer afternoon, but even as she repeatedly voices relish at this unexpected break from her hectic schedule, she is darting hither and thither, to snatch up weeds, right a fallen sign, note repair work for the farm team or dig up new spuds. According to reliable witnesses, this human dynamo does actually sleep but it is difficult to imagine her ever switching off completely.
“The school started from a desire to stay on the farm, on the land we love,” says Darina. “We had four small children so we didn’t want to have to drive into Cork every day for work. It may sound hippyish but we are blessed to have some land. Every single penny since opening, within reason, is re-invested, which is why it looks like it does now.
