It is with great sadness that we announce the death of Donald MacIntyre, founder of Emorsgate Seeds and a pioneering figure in the conservation and restoration of wild flower meadows. Donald’s vision and dedication helped transform ecological restoration across the UK, and his influence will continue to be felt for generations to come.
Donald studied Botany and Plant Genetics at Royal Holloway, University of London, and the University of Glasgow, where he began his career in research before moving into plant breeding at the Scottish Horticultural Research Institute and Floranova Ltd. In 1980, he combined his scientific expertise with his passion for native flora to establish Emorsgate Seeds, now the UK’s leading grower and supplier of native wild flower and grass seeds.
Under his leadership, the business grew to encompass farms in Norfolk and Somerset, supplying seeds for many landmark projects and ecological research partnerships with universities and conservation organisations across the UK.
Donald’s work was recognised at the highest level, including holding a Royal Warrant for the supply of native seeds to HRH The Prince of Wales, now HM The King. He was also a co-founder of Flora Locale, a founding member of the European Native Seed Producers Association (ENSPA), and an active voice in parish and local community life.
Alongside his business, Donald was a first-generation farmer, managing livestock, woodland, grassland, and arable systems, and was especially devoted to breeding and working Shire Horses. His lifelong love of plants, farming, and the countryside infused everything he did.
As an author, Donald published widely, from early scientific papers to numerous articles for the BSBI News, culminating in his 2024 book Restoring the Wild, a definitive guide to the restoration and management of meadows and wild vegetation. He was a regular and inspiring speaker at conferences and a wide range of gatherings, always generous in sharing his knowledge.
As we mourn his loss, we are comforted knowing his legacy is in safe hands. Three of his four daughters, Mischa, Laurie and Myrica, who have long been joint partners with him in the business, are taking Emorsgate Seeds forward with the same passion and expertise, ensuring the values Donald built the company upon remain at its heart.
Donald will be remembered not only as a pioneer of ecological restoration, but as a farmer, scientist, mentor, and family man whose vision changed landscapes and inspired countless people. We are confident knowing that his legacy will continue to bloom in the meadows he loved so dearly.
