At Swainstown Farm in Ireland, Arthur and Larissa Preston have built a life around growing fresh food and caring for the land. What started as a small vegetable garden has blossomed into a diverse agricultural hub. With a history spanning over ten generations, the farm has evolved under their stewardship, offering vegetables, flowers, fruit, lamb, pork, firewood, cattle, and even donkeys. Their journey highlights a deep commitment to sustainability, biodiversity, and community-driven farming.
A legacy renewed
Arthur, born and raised on Swainstown Farm, returned in 2018 to take over from his father, who primarily cultivated wheat and raised Aberdeen Angus cattle. Eager to grow his own food, Arthur started a small garden, which soon became larger than he needed. To make use of the surplus, he set up an honesty stall to sell the extra produce. The stall became popular, leading them to expand the garden every year. Larissa, originally from Kenya, joined in 2020, bringing fresh perspectives and strengthening their shared vision of regenerative farming.
Their daily routine is shaped by the changing needs of the farm. Mornings are spent sowing, transplanting, and caring for seedlings, while tending to livestock is a continuous responsibility. Later in the week, they shift their attention to harvesting, cleaning, and preparing fresh produce for their farm shop. "We both get a huge sense of satisfaction when we see our seedlings popping up through the compost," they share, reflecting on the joy of watching their crops grow. "When all the produce is clean, presented nicely, and packed into a full shop ready for a busy weekend, it is one of the most rewarding feelings you can have," they share.
When all the produce is clean, presented nicely, and packed into a full shop ready for a busy weekend, it is one of the most rewarding feelings you can have.
Sustainable farming for the future
From the outset, Arthur and Larissa sought to manage their land in a way that promotes biodiversity while ensuring economic viability. "Our principal aim was to promote biodiversity whilst being able to generate a basic income," Arthur explains. They have embraced sustainable practices such as no-dig gardening, which improves soil health by avoiding tilling and preserving beneficial microbes; mob grazing, where livestock are rotated frequently to regenerate grasslands and improve soil fertility; and silvopasture, which integrates trees, forage, and livestock to create a balanced and resilient ecosystem.
Inspired by innovative small-scale farming techniques from the US, they incorporate modern tools and methods that enhance efficiency without compromising environmental integrity.
Balancing multiple enterprises, from livestock including their sheep, cattle, chickens, and donkeys to vegetable cultivation, has presented challenges, particularly in time management. However, their dedication to fostering a self-sustaining ecosystem has paid off. With the farm now established enough to employ two full-time workers, they have been able to structure a more sustainable work-life balance.
Connecting with the community
Swainstown Farm is more than just a place of production; it is a hub for the local community. Their farm shop not only provides access to fresh, nutrient-rich produce but also fosters a local food network by supporting and selling products from other local farmers and artisans. Through partnerships with hotels and restaurants, they are also promoting the value of locally grown, chemical-free food.
They have big ambitions for the future. They plan to establish their own herd of beef cattle and expand their egg-laying enterprise. Recognising the barriers to land access for aspiring farmers, they are also exploring collaborations with landless individuals who share their passion for sustainable agriculture, ensuring that more young people can participate in and shape the future of farming.
Their message to young people considering farming is clear: "Try it out!" They stress the importance of gaining hands-on experience on different farms to discover the most suitable approach. Farming is physically demanding but deeply rewarding, offering a tangible connection to the land and the satisfaction of growing food for the community.
The future of organic farming
While Ireland’s organic sector remains underdeveloped, Arthur and Larissa see great potential for growth. They acknowledge the European Union’s support for organic agriculture but believe more effort is needed to build consumer awareness and demand. They are beginning their journey towards organic certification, recognising it as a clear, trustworthy standard that aligns with their commitment to sustainability.
Arthur and Larissa Preston are not just running a farm; they are shaping a model for resilient, community-focused agriculture. Through their dedication to sustainable practices and their vision for the future, Swainstown Farm is thriving, offering not just food but a connection between people, the land, and the traditions that sustain it. " Starting any business is hard and a farming business even more so. But despite the challenges in farming, it can provide a uniquely rewarding career, grounded in nature and a healthy existence."
