February is associated with the month of Love. Ever since the eighth century, the Feast of Saint Valentine has been celebrated on February 14th. It probably originated as a feast day honouring martyrs who were executed on the 14th February. In medieval days it was believed the birds began to pair on 14 February which is the origin of the custom of exchanging Valentine tokens.
Traditionally Plum Shuttles were eaten on Valentine's Day which were dough buns, shaped like a weaver's shuttle made with currants and/or caraway seeds. And through later traditions, it has turned into a celebration of romance and love in many countries of the world.
Denne historien er fra February 2025-utgaven av The Country Smallholder.
Start din 7-dagers gratis prøveperiode på Magzter GOLD for å få tilgang til tusenvis av utvalgte premiumhistorier og 9000+ magasiner og aviser.
Allerede abonnent ? Logg på
Denne historien er fra February 2025-utgaven av The Country Smallholder.
Start din 7-dagers gratis prøveperiode på Magzter GOLD for å få tilgang til tusenvis av utvalgte premiumhistorier og 9000+ magasiner og aviser.
Allerede abonnent? Logg på
No space to spare- an influx of rescued goats
Matt Huggins makes an unusual appeal for new foster homes
Treats for Valentines Day
Henrietta Balcon looks at the traditions surrounding this celebration of love
Are you legal to transport livestock?
Agricultural journalist, smallholder and editor of Ford & Fordson Tractors Magazine Jane Brooks, joins us for her regular look at the world of agricultural machinery.
Soil Farmer of the Year competition launched on World Soil Day
Farmers can now enter the 2025 Soil Farmer of the Year competition, which will celebrate leadership in soil management as a tool to support the overall resilience of farm businesses. Entries close 5th March, 2025
Getting kitted out for safety and comfort
Claire Waring considers the personal equipment you need when starting beekeeping.
Laying hens doing a cracking job helping young farmer plough his own furrow
Joining Farmlay as a contract producer has helped a young Scottish farmer transform a modest acreage into a profitable concern.
What Can Chickens Eat for Treats?
Most of us with chickens want to provide some treats as a supplement to their core food, either to encourage their trust or simply “just because”. Fiona & Hugh Osborne guide you through the options.
The Andalusian, a beautiful Mediterranean light breed which has some genetic quirks
This Mediterranean breed was known in the early 1800s, but the colours then were black or white.
The waddle of wee webbed feet
Many ducks will soon come into lay but you need to plan ahead if you want to breed ducklings
Consider Cheshire for stunning countryside but also a county of culture
Sue Field writes our regular column about the best places for smallholder living
