Directory

Sanna Reponen is a small-scale organic farmer in Sulkava, growing garlic across almost her entire 500 square meter plot. She also produces small amounts of oats and feed for a neighbouring organic dairy farm. Her garlic is highly sought after, often sold out before the next season even begins. Sanna keeps a low profile online and on social media, earning her the mysterious nickname “the invisible farmer.”

Vakka-Taimi is a specialist seedling grower run by Vesa Muurinen. What began as a small hobby nursery has grown into a wide-ranging collection of trees, shrubs, vines, and perennials. Alongside their core nursery work, Vakka-Taimi is actively trialling nut-producing species to see how they perform in the Finnish climate. Testing and observation are a central part of their work. The Muurila gardens, first planted in the early 1990s, now host more than 80 species and are open to visitors. Throughout the year, the garden holds seasonal events such as magnolia, rose and peony days, sharing knowledge and encouraging curiosity around plants that might shape future growing in Finland.

Viiniverla is an organic producer of non-alcoholic wines and drinks based in Verla. Their range includes sparkling wine, traditional lemonades, glögg, and juices such as apple-ginger glögg or red gooseberry fizz, all made from local ingredients, without artificial flavourings, sweeteners, or colouring. Their responsible approach extends beyond ingredients, covering cooking methods, energy use, and recycling across the production. Alongside their own production, Viiniverla offers a fruit juicing service: anyone can bring apples from their garden to be turned into juice, helping to capture the harvest and prevent surplus fruit from going to waste.