The flowers that appear on the flax are affectionately known here as "the wee blue blossom" and it's always a great moment in the growing process when they appear.
The first flowers of our 2023 crop have started to appearThis year, for the first time, we are hosting an open day on 22nd July for 20 people to enjoy the wee blue blossoms in person. It is one of the rewards available as part of the Mourne Textiles #fibretofabric Crowdfunder Campaign.
A flax field in full bloom is quite a sight, it is buzzing with bees and butterflies, and on a good day the blue flowers reflect the sky. At one time this beautiful crop would have covered large swathes of the Northern Ireland landscape. The flowers open in the morning and disappear throughout the day as seed heads are formed. More flowers will appear the following day and this continues for a period of around two weeks. The open day will start with a 2hr tour of the farm which will include their restored Mackies Scutching Turbine and there will be a chance to try processing flax from plant to yarn. Visitors will have the option to spend the afternoon in the flax field at leisure. They might use the time for painting, photography, picnicking or just sitting. Each visitor will receive a gift bag of souvenirs from the day. The date may be subject to change depending on the blossom or weather.
If you or anyone you know would like to join us to enjoy the wee blue blossom then please click here for all the details and scroll down the list of fantastic rewards. The reward for this experience is listed as:
Open day of flax in full bloom - Mallon Linen
Every donation will help to restore the Irish grown linen industry.