July is a month of abundance! The long, warm days encourage steady growth across the allotment, and the lack of rain lately (or this year in fact) remains a challenge in keeping the plot and garden watered. Although the crazy pace of spring has eased, there is so much to do. I’m doing my best to look after the crops in the ground, and I need to get some overwintering crops started.
I’ll also be sharing more about my health journey. I’ve recently had blood tests, which showed I’m anaemic (I’m now on 322mg ferrous fumarate daily for 3 months). I’m undergoing further investigations into possible autoimmune conditions and other things that might be going on. Something isn’t quite right (it hasn’t been since 2018), and I’m doing my best to listen to my body and do whatever I can to stay as healthy as possible, while not being too hard on myself for finding things difficult. Homegrown organic veg and the choice to work gently, at my own pace, is precisely what I need.
What I’m Sowing Now
- Carrots and beetroots can be planted now for small but sweet harvests later in the year.
- French beans will still be ready in time; I’m adding another row of dwarf varieties too.
- I’m also sowing quick salad bits like lettuce, radish, rocket and spring onions in short rows.
- Kale and chard will carry me into autumn and winter, so I’m making space for those.
- Herbs – basil, dill, and coriander are loving the warmth, as long as I remember to water.
Brassicas to Sow in July (for overwintering or spring cropping)
- Spring cabbages can be sown now for early spring harvests.
- Purple sprouting broccoli is worth a go if you haven’t already.
- Kale is a staple here, we have lots on the go.
- Chard and perpetual spinach are great for autumn and early winter greens, and they hold up well with a bit of protection.
- Turnips and swedes can still go in; I’m keeping them in a shady spot to help with germination during the dry weather.
- Oriental greens, such as pak choi, mustard leaves, and tatsoi, will be added later this month.
- If you’re late with leeks, it’s still worth planting a few out now.
Plot Jobs This Month
- It’s all about maintenance now. I’m doing these little and often:
- Watering early or late to avoid losing it all to evaporation
- Mulching wherever I can with compost or grass cuttings to hold in moisture
- Tying in climbers like beans, cucumbers and sweet peas before they collapse
- Staking anything that’s getting too tall and wobbly
- Feeding tomatoes, courgettes and other fruiting crops every week or so
What’s Ready to Harvest
We have been enjoying courgettes, strawberries and lots of salad. I’m looking forward to visiting the plot this week for a mammoth picking session. I have an extra freezer arriving today!
When Things Get On Top of Me
It happens. Sometimes I walk onto the plot and wonder where to begin. When it’s like that, I pick the bits that are thriving and try not to stress about the rest. Water the thirsty ones. Pull a few weeds. Harvest what’s ready. If something’s not working or is bolted, I cut it down and move on.
It’s never all perfect, and that’s alright!
If You’ve Been Away or Lost Momentum
A few days away or a rough week, and it can all feel a bit wild. I always remind myself that the garden doesn’t need to be perfect to be productive. Start by clearing one bed or path at a time. Sow a quick patch of rocket or radish for that mental boost and to get things moving again. And get in a good watering session; everything looks better after a drink. I’m thinking of going to the plot early mornings over the summer and completely switching up my routine.
Gentle gardening is more than enough. Some days, it’s everything!
Sarah.
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