The first of August is here, and I’m in a strange state of limbo at the moment. The kids finished school and college way back on June 18th. We’ve spent time at the allotment. We’ve been to Zakynthos, had an 18th birthday and party (with homegrown flowers). We’ve had a brilliant summer, and yet, it’s…
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…
June is the month when the allotment comes alive. After spring’s frantic sowing and planting, we can start to enjoy the rewards of our hard work. The days are long, the weeds are enthusiastic, and the first proper harvests of the season are ready to lift our spirits. The excitement is always there! Here’s my…
February may feel like a quiet month at the plot, but there’s plenty to be getting on with. With longer days creeping in, now is the perfect time to start sowing, preparing, and planning. Here’s a plan of action for the month ahead (and it’s a short one so I’d best get a wriggle on!).
When we think of our gardens, we often envision neat lawns, colourful flower beds, and bountiful veggie patches. But have you ever considered the buzzing, chirping, and fluttering life that makes all this possible? Biodiversity – the variety of life in your garden – isn’t just a nice-to-have. It’s essential for the health of your plants, the environment, and even your mental wellbeing.
As the new year begins, gardeners can get a head start on their allotments by sowing certain crops in January. Despite the cold weather, several hardy vegetables can be planted now to ensure an early and productive harvest in the coming seasons. Here are the ones I’ll be trying… Broad beansSow hardy varieties like ‘Aquadulce…
As the days get shorter and the temperatures drop, many gardeners pack away their tools for the season. But winter doesn’t have to mean the end of growing. Overwintering vegetables are a great way to keep your allotment productive through the colder months, and they offer the added bonus of being some of the easiest…