tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-78622109322967676302024-03-17T22:38:56.923+00:00Hazel and Jane's allotmentHazelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18191107549698019812noreply@blogger.comBlogger588125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7862210932296767630.post-809785166363196632024-03-17T22:38:00.000+00:002024-03-17T22:38:00.243+00:00Best parsnips ever!<p>Finally it has stopped raining - hurrah! - so off to the Hill this afternoon in some lovely Spring sunshine, clutching a packet of parsnip seeds in my hand. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAd0qVQdswB22pV1UOEC3Q06I3kePZdElfmKnsP8wrWxvZq1fYXa-1458hidomkQ5YcpOhhyphenhyphenHE3zIRowh4-CzwldetI7XDbK33z8I8pEGH5x5bKr33Shji-Tft40FjwodbhACmRyUdOTWS3KbvehohNPSD8grBG95m7-9SIRdhbSOl02xaTWyr-hli4WY/s4000/20240317_192757.jpg" style="clear: right; display: inline !important; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="3000" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAd0qVQdswB22pV1UOEC3Q06I3kePZdElfmKnsP8wrWxvZq1fYXa-1458hidomkQ5YcpOhhyphenhyphenHE3zIRowh4-CzwldetI7XDbK33z8I8pEGH5x5bKr33Shji-Tft40FjwodbhACmRyUdOTWS3KbvehohNPSD8grBG95m7-9SIRdhbSOl02xaTWyr-hli4WY/w150-h200/20240317_192757.jpg" width="150" /></a>Last year's planting plan of 'put in what you have ready in the bit of land you have ready' was not what you might call organised but it certainly worked, with some fab veg - these parsnips and cabbage a case in point which I bought home with me today. <br /><br />But the 'bung it in' approach does not have any reference to rotation and all that stuff that you are supposed to do in order to keep the gound healthy, as well as the crops in it. <br /><br />Being rather more organised this year (so far!) with all eight main beds with veg in at the moment, or ready to planted up means that I can choose where to grow this year's veg. A slightly limiting factor is that the garlic is already randomly planted in 'A1', and I sowed the broad beans in 'B1', but I will have to work round them.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCEWlZnXayYsttLfB0ZY6h6moTHUDD2ESrnWqzgAqgv2HfpqBFLrDN6ixFXZnEhbRZT6klREkX6jLpSE02v9XgM9oleJNCfb6K82MhvmRaO7DZ4MBq0qxbW2b-xKe10vEnG0gqudkwOWiP4J1Nensd9O-C3EAhwQFP2jQuBXJVYAztciohQzAgdFYYPQs/s4000/20240317_211110.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="3000" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCEWlZnXayYsttLfB0ZY6h6moTHUDD2ESrnWqzgAqgv2HfpqBFLrDN6ixFXZnEhbRZT6klREkX6jLpSE02v9XgM9oleJNCfb6K82MhvmRaO7DZ4MBq0qxbW2b-xKe10vEnG0gqudkwOWiP4J1Nensd9O-C3EAhwQFP2jQuBXJVYAztciohQzAgdFYYPQs/w150-h200/20240317_211110.jpg" width="150" /></a></div>I fished out my trusty John Seymour to tell me what should be where, and based on where the spuds were last year (C1 & C2), I worked out where I wanted to sow the parsnip seeds. <br /><br />However, by the time I'd cut a couple of cabbage, dug a healthy selection of parsnips chatted to Handyman Paul, who kindly asked after mum, and Richard-3-plots-down who came to pick my brains on the best recommended Canary Island, I was out of time.<br /><br />Parsnip seed - if not parsnips themselves - will have to wait another day. </div><p></p>Hazelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18191107549698019812noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7862210932296767630.post-58770736238561670772024-03-03T21:59:00.001+00:002024-03-03T21:59:16.428+00:00Spring? <p></p>It's been mild on the whole over the past few weeks with bucketfuls of rain, but today it was crisp and sunny. The blossom on the blackthorns can only mean that Spring is round the corner (and sloe gin season could be a good one!).<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFCnCdL-IXIiC3n3iR4ySeWXFvrWK-o5kTGTdSUFJrekZ_krb-JiTtqp2sgn1LvyHtP56UgCq4vcWJD8xILl7mWMDRQTO4VigiXhe5bqteFQlurpaLYj5-TFVKWZFhyphenhyphenpQRweJF7m62UkEnx3VCLpO_TLk_py6Wv7z4QN_yNIvV7Wnxl565yEt9AGi9yVI/s4000/20240303_201858.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFCnCdL-IXIiC3n3iR4ySeWXFvrWK-o5kTGTdSUFJrekZ_krb-JiTtqp2sgn1LvyHtP56UgCq4vcWJD8xILl7mWMDRQTO4VigiXhe5bqteFQlurpaLYj5-TFVKWZFhyphenhyphenpQRweJF7m62UkEnx3VCLpO_TLk_py6Wv7z4QN_yNIvV7Wnxl565yEt9AGi9yVI/w200-h150/20240303_201858.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>A late afternoon visit it the Hill meant that I had the place to myself, which was just as well as my first job was with a spade, noisily scraping the mud, weeds and moss off the slabs which form the path.<p></p><p>Next up was to dig over one of the vacant beds (accompanied by a robin) where a couple of weeks ago I'd emptied a dalek composter and roughly spread the contents. The ground is v wet, so the forking over rather heavy going, but its a job done. </p><p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifVkDPw2HeC5ukslViBEDUtJctwxCOqJqKEHY62-yxntleend8s8nlZSlxPsovSwg_AFeO_oODdSLCM1bqVKpa1GvZdI99dwTl3yZ5lSswt0Q4a1_aHxO7cqdxMAuvxCZiFhm96XQstmcuyzGqg3jIkrwyQfn7if6mu9wIezFE2igPima6zTp_MPrSwQA/s4000/20240303_201931.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifVkDPw2HeC5ukslViBEDUtJctwxCOqJqKEHY62-yxntleend8s8nlZSlxPsovSwg_AFeO_oODdSLCM1bqVKpa1GvZdI99dwTl3yZ5lSswt0Q4a1_aHxO7cqdxMAuvxCZiFhm96XQstmcuyzGqg3jIkrwyQfn7if6mu9wIezFE2igPima6zTp_MPrSwQA/w200-h150/20240303_201931.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>Third job of the afternoon was to sow some broad beans. Probably should have waiting until the ground was a bit drier, but something I have learnt is that time whizzes by, so you have to take the opportunity to do things when you can, rather than perhaps when you should.<p></p><p>With dusk fast approaching, I picked some kale and dug almost the tail end of the leeks - the winter crops have been so good this year - before packing up and leaving the bossy robin to it. </p><p> </p>Hazelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18191107549698019812noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7862210932296767630.post-13137619689525467252024-03-03T19:27:00.000+00:002024-03-03T19:27:25.834+00:00Well, well....<p>Out the blue a few weeks ago I had an email asking if I still blogged as the writer found it a good read - especially as I wasn't afraid to chronical the good as well as the - er - not so good. </p><p>Gosh - does Blogger still exist? I logged on to find that none of the blogs I followed when I made my last entry five years ago are current - maybe everyone moved to Facebook, Instagram and latterly TikTok. Or maybe they just lost interest, rather as I did.</p><p>I guess that I felt that as the seasons roll round I was bored of saying much the same thing, and didn't have much really new to add, but I still have my plot at the Hill - and despite the wettest start to the year in living memory, Spring is in the air.....</p><p>.....so long as I can get back into the habit of putting a few words down each time, I might as well. </p>Hazelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18191107549698019812noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7862210932296767630.post-56555540262187821542018-11-19T14:02:00.000+00:002018-11-19T14:02:18.252+00:00Clearing Up!<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-H5rSACIFAN4/W_LCQ-yA1lI/AAAAAAAAGus/SMlAT0ZXsicIi5FR7y-AEcI6NwY4QGOQQCLcBGAs/s1600/20181118_144419%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="112" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-H5rSACIFAN4/W_LCQ-yA1lI/AAAAAAAAGus/SMlAT0ZXsicIi5FR7y-AEcI6NwY4QGOQQCLcBGAs/s200/20181118_144419%255B1%255D.jpg" width="200" /></a>As the Autumn has been fairly mild, the weeds continue to grow, so today's job was to weed the leek bed. <br />
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Quite a few of the leeks are troubled with leek moth - again - but I think that with a whole bed planted, I should be able to be eating at least a few meals this winter.<br />
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The summer crops still need clearing, and the garlic planting - never a dull time on the plot.Hazelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18191107549698019812noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7862210932296767630.post-65110960988009088482018-11-12T01:08:00.003+00:002018-11-12T01:08:46.511+00:00And now for the Winter Crops!Now that the beans and courgettes have well and truly finished, it's time to clear them from the plot, along with the sweetcorn.<br />
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I finished doing that this afternoon, after having a couple of weekends working on the side of the plot with the aim replacing the weed suppressant and re-laying the bark chippings. Still only half way through that one. <br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qmaKplukHT0/W-jSPPtEBGI/AAAAAAAAGug/u-kBiVUUK_U8V_TAI2qN3N31Sd_DRusagCLcBGAs/s1600/20181112_010602%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="112" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qmaKplukHT0/W-jSPPtEBGI/AAAAAAAAGug/u-kBiVUUK_U8V_TAI2qN3N31Sd_DRusagCLcBGAs/s200/20181112_010602%255B1%255D.jpg" width="200" /></a>As one crop finishes, another is ready to harvest, assuming that you are a bit organised (bit hit and miss with me) - so I came home this afternoon with a carrier bag full of kale, and the first of about a dozen cabbages, which is the size of my head. Leeks look good too, but they can wait for another day.<br />
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I'm not eating parsnips this year as I was less organised with sowing those back in the early Spring, and unless I get the garlic planted out soon, I won't be eating that next Summer either....Hazelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18191107549698019812noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7862210932296767630.post-51932386905757366322018-09-10T00:02:00.001+01:002018-09-10T00:03:40.662+01:00Glut!Well, I've done really well this summer keeping on top of allotment produce by picking everything really small, giving stuff to everyone I know, freezing the runner beans, and - let's face it - eating an awful lot of french beans and courgettes.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8pNnUBwsG2c/W5WmHL8SVZI/AAAAAAAAGuU/CWnmjURJdrIGe85bTq1BGSaK8KemmlvSACLcBGAs/s1600/20180909_232114%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="112" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8pNnUBwsG2c/W5WmHL8SVZI/AAAAAAAAGuU/CWnmjURJdrIGe85bTq1BGSaK8KemmlvSACLcBGAs/s200/20180909_232114%255B1%255D.jpg" width="200" /></a>But I am now just a bit overwhelmed! This haul is from today's visit to the Hill, and one picking session last week, and doesn't include the three baby courgette I had for tea tonight.<br />
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In other news, I am gradually working my way down the side beds - re-staking and digging them over. Three of these down, two tricky ones to go.Hazelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18191107549698019812noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7862210932296767630.post-73293127764821730372018-09-02T00:08:00.000+01:002018-09-02T00:08:18.404+01:00Autumn Round the CornerAfter the excitement of the Annual Show, I happened to have a few days away, so on my first visit back to the Hill this evening I find half a dozen huge courgettes - which I ditched (have had enough years of varying success with courgette soup/shredded courgette in the freezer/free for all courgettes for the neighbours) - and picked five baby ones to use.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Mqo_Sxd8s2g/W4salULU67I/AAAAAAAAGuE/bYqYPl_prxEXvDMUGXs7_iesx91VVJZyQCLcBGAs/s1600/20180831_184542%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Mqo_Sxd8s2g/W4salULU67I/AAAAAAAAGuE/bYqYPl_prxEXvDMUGXs7_iesx91VVJZyQCLcBGAs/s200/20180831_184542%255B1%255D.jpg" width="112" /></a>I had a 'cuckoo in the nest' bean which has turned out to be a purple climber - and how prolific is this one plant! Can also see the beans against the green foliage, which makes them easier to pick; and they are utterly stringless when cooked, even if a bit big. Fortuitous sowing error.<br />
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I picked a carrier bag of runners and french beans - some of the runners too big to use, but most OK. I find that runners freeze brilliantly (french beans not so much), so when I got back tonight I've had a string/slice/chop session.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pXN54Shs7e4/W4safZT2hUI/AAAAAAAAGuA/8tLLPFXsK0wowfbcIfAVqICCM1ebXgtUACLcBGAs/s1600/20180901_195438%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; display: inline; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="112" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pXN54Shs7e4/W4safZT2hUI/AAAAAAAAGuA/8tLLPFXsK0wowfbcIfAVqICCM1ebXgtUACLcBGAs/s200/20180901_195438%255B1%255D.jpg" width="200" /></a>I had a good weeding session, and note the brassicas all looking fab. It's still warm enough in the evenings for a t shirt, although it is noticeable how the nights are drawing in.<br />
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Retired to the club house at 8.30pm at dusk for the customary quick beer - and I caught the start of tonight's entertainment - a performer doing 'songs from the movies' - ah, those Summer Nights.Hazelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18191107549698019812noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7862210932296767630.post-78079109574045422882018-08-20T10:55:00.000+01:002018-08-20T10:55:02.677+01:00Annual Show 2018<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2AviPOoJkuo/W3qPuhjrMQI/AAAAAAAAGt0/75tJDwrKRww84AU6F2BodZBL9LsehvE-ACLcBGAs/s1600/20180819_132929.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2AviPOoJkuo/W3qPuhjrMQI/AAAAAAAAGt0/75tJDwrKRww84AU6F2BodZBL9LsehvE-ACLcBGAs/s200/20180819_132929.jpg" width="112" /></a>Plenty of fun at the Annual Show, as ever. <br />
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Great quality in all the veg classes, despite difficult growing conditions this year, and it is always good to celebrate the season with the other growers.<br />
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This year, the only veg prize for me was in the odd shaped veg category for a little french bean, but I was very happy with a first prize for my fruit cake - it was worth having a second attempt after all!<br />
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Nothing for my biscuits, but a third for my Plum and Apple chutney. <br />
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<br />Hazelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18191107549698019812noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7862210932296767630.post-63857446061248008582018-08-19T12:30:00.001+01:002018-08-19T12:30:12.070+01:00Annual Show Prep<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0wnoE2Rl3lI/W3lUbSZlmBI/AAAAAAAAGtk/KGHsWwWiVQYaG-Kv3xA1WHrdbnjPtJuPACLcBGAs/s1600/20180818_172306.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="112" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0wnoE2Rl3lI/W3lUbSZlmBI/AAAAAAAAGtk/KGHsWwWiVQYaG-Kv3xA1WHrdbnjPtJuPACLcBGAs/s200/20180818_172306.jpg" width="200" /></a>It's Annual Show time again, so went to the Hill yesterday to pick everything in sight, then spent last night sorting through French and runner beans, rhubarb and courgettes. <br />
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Biscuits and cake are made, the chutney is potted up, and I have a funny little bean to enter in the 'odd veg' category. <br />
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The sun is shining, and it promises to be a lovely day.<br />
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Hazelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18191107549698019812noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7862210932296767630.post-47286611998637080362018-08-12T23:43:00.002+01:002018-08-12T23:43:12.602+01:00A Great Job and an Inadequate Job <a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-72Q38h97uYs/W3C2V67-awI/AAAAAAAAGtI/6jR9YLYr8_MnIhQX-lIGE0m4LtsVIcqmwCLcBGAs/s1600/20180807_204919.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-72Q38h97uYs/W3C2V67-awI/AAAAAAAAGtI/6jR9YLYr8_MnIhQX-lIGE0m4LtsVIcqmwCLcBGAs/s200/20180807_204919.jpg" width="112" /></a>After some much needed rain this weekend, I went to the Hill this evening to keep on top of picking the courgettes, have an eye out for possible entries in next week's Annual Show; and to make a start on re-staking the asparagus bed, and reclaiming it from the dandelions which seem to have taken up residence.<br />
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But the first job was to sort out the netting cage over the first brassica bed - the whole caboodle has slid sideways - shown here. I knew at the time that I build it that it lacked integrity, and my temporary 'mast' has worked for a week or two to keep it upright, it needs a more permanent solution. <br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aTRHJzhO9z8/W3C2eNPfUmI/AAAAAAAAGtQ/CGAEFV9nlrUp8w11VnTtOwQuUYSrW6H-ACLcBGAs/s1600/20180812_203515%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aTRHJzhO9z8/W3C2eNPfUmI/AAAAAAAAGtQ/CGAEFV9nlrUp8w11VnTtOwQuUYSrW6H-ACLcBGAs/s200/20180812_203515%255B1%255D.jpg" width="112" /></a>I knocked in a vertical stake at each end, and screwed each of these through into the cross piece, and instantly it is more robust. Brilliant.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-z_G9FShVQOY/W3C2M24GyDI/AAAAAAAAGs8/-Tkj-pNjNHEPUmXDoB2OzGwHc0zO7QR3QCLcBGAs/s1600/20180812_203700%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-z_G9FShVQOY/W3C2M24GyDI/AAAAAAAAGs8/-Tkj-pNjNHEPUmXDoB2OzGwHc0zO7QR3QCLcBGAs/s200/20180812_203700%255B1%255D.jpg" width="112" /></a>Getting the asparagus bed cleared required some caution - I can't just fork all the dandelions out as I'd be digging up the asparagus crowns too, so it was a case of wriggling the fork about to loosen the soil, and try to pull the dandelions out. <br />
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With inch thick, foot long roots, many of which I snapped - most of the dandelions will be back, so I've won the battle but not the war. I hope that I haven't done the asparagus too much damage - as it is, I can see about 4 gaps where the crowns are not active/dead, so maybe I should be looking at replacing those. Annoying not to be able to clear the bed properly.<br />
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Whilst clearing the weeds, I got absolutely bitten to bits - and ended up with a forearm swollen to the size of Popeye's - so I called it a day and retreated to the club house for restorative beer before home time.<br />
Hazelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18191107549698019812noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7862210932296767630.post-91256034857291825202018-08-09T22:30:00.000+01:002018-08-09T22:30:22.021+01:00In - collect veg - outA lightning visit to the Hill tonight before a gym class to make sure that I am on top of courgette production. I cut five lovely small ones; then picked a handful of runners, and the same of climbing french beans.<br />
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It's like shoplifting in the greengrocers.Hazelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18191107549698019812noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7862210932296767630.post-84724115522328849112018-08-07T23:04:00.002+01:002018-08-07T23:04:45.590+01:00A Bit of a BodgeWhen we had that small amount of rain a couple of weekends ago, it was accompanied by some blustery winds, and both of my hooped netting cages suffered. The first one - a bit of a makeshift affair anyway - didn't surprise me, but the more robust of the two also lurched to one side.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zhGrfCxNpwA/W2oVstU2rbI/AAAAAAAAGsg/rDjsIzzW264_jmKDTTcEvQr3--OcPxHJACLcBGAs/s1600/20180807_204816.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="112" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zhGrfCxNpwA/W2oVstU2rbI/AAAAAAAAGsg/rDjsIzzW264_jmKDTTcEvQr3--OcPxHJACLcBGAs/s200/20180807_204816.jpg" width="200" /></a>After having a look at how others constructed their hoop cages, I see that I am missing a vertical from each end, so it was an easy fix on the second cage - a couple of long stakes hammered in and a couple of screws into the bracing bar. Brilliant.<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ETlJq22hMrc/W2oVsuyouYI/AAAAAAAAGsk/Ecg1aCn8a98vkzApmLdiOdAGD4ghhWLuQCLcBGAs/s1600/20180807_204831.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="112" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ETlJq22hMrc/W2oVsuyouYI/AAAAAAAAGsk/Ecg1aCn8a98vkzApmLdiOdAGD4ghhWLuQCLcBGAs/s200/20180807_204831.jpg" width="200" /></a><br />
The more rickety of the two may need further thought - it certainly looks a bit squashed at the mo.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RLlRf0-VzVc/W2oVsYdC7PI/AAAAAAAAGsc/9WQjvEPNk9EgX25pCAFi_ROt7uTyQJL9gCLcBGAs/s1600/20180807_205011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="112" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RLlRf0-VzVc/W2oVsYdC7PI/AAAAAAAAGsc/9WQjvEPNk9EgX25pCAFi_ROt7uTyQJL9gCLcBGAs/s200/20180807_205011.jpg" width="200" /></a>I also wanted to finish staking the first of the fruit beds tonight - I think this is my third go at it. A new lump hammer should have made light work of the stakes, but I got them in to the ground by about a foot when they seem to hit a solid layer.<br />
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I poured water into the holes to soften the ground to no real avail, and then cheated by cutting a couple of the stakes down a few inches. Screwed them to the bed sides, and that was that.<br />
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Pick half a dozen courgettes - getting a tiny bit big for comfort - a punnet of runners and the same again of climbing french beans. Picked some tomatoes when I got home too, and had about the freshest tea ever.Hazelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18191107549698019812noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7862210932296767630.post-42634448382153580732018-08-03T10:49:00.000+01:002018-08-03T10:49:33.484+01:00Some Progress<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HnwhQBu5Q6U/W2Qksmy7sPI/AAAAAAAAGsQ/GPr66PCf_b8aIG1NySKeAoE-pI8hRancgCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG-20180802-WA0001%255B1%255D.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1196" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HnwhQBu5Q6U/W2Qksmy7sPI/AAAAAAAAGsQ/GPr66PCf_b8aIG1NySKeAoE-pI8hRancgCLcBGAs/s200/IMG-20180802-WA0001%255B1%255D.jpeg" width="149" /></a>I went to the Hill yesterday with a view to finish re-staking and digging over the first of the fruit beds at the side. <br />
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First step was to fork over the bed - firstly to get the weeds out the bed, as the comfrey in this bed has grown rampant and spread to the paths round, and beyond; second, the ground is rock hard as it is so dry, and this area has not been worked, and I hope to loosen the soil to make it a bit easier to knock the stakes in.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-h6LQB5EYQDg/W2QjCG9u31I/AAAAAAAAGsE/2fkVkaJH0F0iqloRQCMAwY9Ice_So0ddQCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG-20180802-WA0003%255B1%255D.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1196" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-h6LQB5EYQDg/W2QjCG9u31I/AAAAAAAAGsE/2fkVkaJH0F0iqloRQCMAwY9Ice_So0ddQCLcBGAs/s200/IMG-20180802-WA0003%255B1%255D.jpeg" width="149" /></a>The comfrey needs replanting in a tub to contain it - a brilliant idea which unfortunately, I only came up with this morning, but I suspect that even after my efforts with the fork, it will grow back, and I'll do the replanting job then.<br />
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The second step was to knock the stakes in - but they were still almost impossible to drive home - I made progress for a while before the lump hammer broke with the top flying off the handle. Don't know my own strength - ha ha.<br />
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Picked a few baby courgettes, a portion of runner beans, and retired to the club house for a quick beer before home time.Hazelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18191107549698019812noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7862210932296767630.post-16253665120588992862018-08-01T12:18:00.000+01:002018-08-01T12:18:03.292+01:00Hard Going<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FJYFcpgTdSU/W2GVWKBuYyI/AAAAAAAAGrs/BvpffY5jTnYz5_A2zmRJLr19rsAf16t1ACLcBGAs/s1600/20180721_204132.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FJYFcpgTdSU/W2GVWKBuYyI/AAAAAAAAGrs/BvpffY5jTnYz5_A2zmRJLr19rsAf16t1ACLcBGAs/s200/20180721_204132.jpg" width="112" /></a>I couldn't get to the Hill until nearly 8.30pm last night and was limited to how much I could get done - it is noticeable that there is not quite so much day length now. <br />
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I'd aimed to restake and dig over the first of the fruit beds down the side of the plot ('before' pic here), but it was clear from trying to knock the first of the stakes in that this would not be as easy as for the main beds - these side beds are more permanent in terms of planting and so the soil is pretty solid as they haven't been turned over much.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-a276lt5spf4/W2GUGeRHXDI/AAAAAAAAGrY/MRSBkTQUvogDltTfb_HIViGJbxVEXjiXQCLcBGAs/s1600/20180731_212927.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-a276lt5spf4/W2GUGeRHXDI/AAAAAAAAGrY/MRSBkTQUvogDltTfb_HIViGJbxVEXjiXQCLcBGAs/s200/20180731_212927.jpg" width="112" /></a>I switched tack and made a start on forking over and clearing the bed of an offspring of the Bramble Intent on World Domination, a sickly blueberry bush which has yielded about 3 blueberries in 8 years, and some unruly comfrey. <br />
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This was also hard going, and I ran out of light before finishing the job, so that's where to start next time round.<br />
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Picked half a dozen small courgette - keeping on top of these so far this year - and few runner beans before heading home.Hazelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18191107549698019812noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7862210932296767630.post-70107478342775049412018-07-30T10:51:00.000+01:002018-07-30T16:52:32.084+01:00A Day of Light RainIf you listened very closely yesterday, when we had the first rain for maybe two months, you could hear the ground making the fainted of noises, like a million straws sucking the last of the milkshake from the glass.<br />
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It wasn't enough to water much more than the most superficially rooted of crops - although enough to germinate the weed seeds, I'm sure - but what there was was much appreciated.Hazelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18191107549698019812noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7862210932296767630.post-14347228152684951182018-07-26T23:33:00.000+01:002018-07-26T23:33:09.960+01:00A Reward for a Job Well Done<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-r-QiHud4cvY/W1pL1qwdaLI/AAAAAAAAGrI/aFFkRauN4ekLOoqXz5nfcNRd_BIDlCr4wCLcBGAs/s1600/20180726_212317%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="112" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-r-QiHud4cvY/W1pL1qwdaLI/AAAAAAAAGrI/aFFkRauN4ekLOoqXz5nfcNRd_BIDlCr4wCLcBGAs/s200/20180726_212317%255B1%255D.jpg" width="200" /></a>Didn't get to the Hill until later on this evening, but still reckoned I could finish laying the weed suppressant on the final three paths between the main beds, and cover them with chippings.<br />
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I did have time to do this, along with some watering, and dug three first early potato plants which have died off - an unsurprisingly low yield, given the weather.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5q3s1-w0JOc/W1pLvbtcmzI/AAAAAAAAGrE/gH5wMZosd1kh3INQMg8nwuyD8P5hZNRhQCLcBGAs/s1600/20180726_212015%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="112" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5q3s1-w0JOc/W1pLvbtcmzI/AAAAAAAAGrE/gH5wMZosd1kh3INQMg8nwuyD8P5hZNRhQCLcBGAs/s200/20180726_212015%255B1%255D.jpg" width="200" /></a>It was still 28<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129;">ÂșC, even at </span>dusk, and I could hear the sound of the band playing through the open windows of the clubhouse, so Eric - who had been watering his plot at the bottom of the Hill - and I dodged the entrance fee and the well dressed ladies and gents, and sneaked in for a quick beer. <br />
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Still humming Run Around Sue as I left to come home for late tea and indignant and hungry cats. Hazelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18191107549698019812noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7862210932296767630.post-48436836768359920692018-07-24T22:51:00.001+01:002018-07-24T22:51:16.244+01:00Another Step ForwardHad to do a bit of emergency watering as soon as I got to the Hill tonight - those brassicas that I planted out two days ago under the new netting frame were flat and limp on the soil. Uh-oh! I caught them in time, though, as after a good drenching, by the time I left, they had perked up.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dfQ2CtpiVDg/W1eerKaFz5I/AAAAAAAAGqw/JoPrJidHH0AmN-lOoZaXTSKw7a1ACQQZQCLcBGAs/s1600/20180724_203356%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="112" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dfQ2CtpiVDg/W1eerKaFz5I/AAAAAAAAGqw/JoPrJidHH0AmN-lOoZaXTSKw7a1ACQQZQCLcBGAs/s200/20180724_203356%255B1%255D.jpg" width="200" /></a>So, still no rain - but it does mean that the pile of wood chippings I'm using to cover the weed suppressant I'm laying on the paths is desiccated and light as a feather, and I can easily fill and carry dustbins full. <br />
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Tonight's job was to do another three paths - which one roll of suppressant covers - and I have three more to do, so a trip to Wilko for supplies tomorrow. It's looking good, I must say.<br />
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Picked a few baby courgettes, and a handful of runner beans for tea tonight - delicious.Hazelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18191107549698019812noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7862210932296767630.post-78948205043367832662018-07-23T10:09:00.003+01:002018-07-23T10:09:31.357+01:00That Went Well!<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uErRsfQ8MZg/W1WY7JhyveI/AAAAAAAAGqQ/6Id2u8uQIGwN88jd22gky786anQGxWiwQCLcBGAs/s1600/20180722_204939.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="112" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uErRsfQ8MZg/W1WY7JhyveI/AAAAAAAAGqQ/6Id2u8uQIGwN88jd22gky786anQGxWiwQCLcBGAs/s200/20180722_204939.jpg" width="200" /></a>After nipping to the Hill in the morning to catch a committee member to sell me some netting from the storeshed, I returned to the Hill last night to get to grips with the brassica bed construction. <br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oUIj97qnRXo/W1WY7GXsSUI/AAAAAAAAGqM/SW8R_BlaqyEnuQRHBSL34r0QL0MHY4xNACLcBGAs/s1600/20180722_212453.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="112" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oUIj97qnRXo/W1WY7GXsSUI/AAAAAAAAGqM/SW8R_BlaqyEnuQRHBSL34r0QL0MHY4xNACLcBGAs/s200/20180722_212453.jpg" width="200" /></a>It turned out to be quite an easy job to measure the spacings for the blue pipe, and attach the wooden top brace.<br />
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I planted out the poor pot-bound, aphid-infested cabbage and cauli, watered them in, then threw the netting over.<br />
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It looks fabulous, if I say so myself.<br />
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Hazelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18191107549698019812noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7862210932296767630.post-82706106552147324222018-07-22T01:31:00.001+01:002018-07-22T01:31:21.382+01:00Better - but more to be done<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9lTEqTuct84/W1PPUu6AzkI/AAAAAAAAGp4/PXIDhtTBSOAqZ7Kp8_codFogo7C-JwzLwCLcBGAs/s1600/20180721_204257%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9lTEqTuct84/W1PPUu6AzkI/AAAAAAAAGp4/PXIDhtTBSOAqZ7Kp8_codFogo7C-JwzLwCLcBGAs/s200/20180721_204257%255B1%255D.jpg" width="112" /></a>I finished digging over bed8 this evening, but wasn't in the mood for the fiddly drilling of the cross beams in order to secure the blue piping for this brassica bed. No rush to get this done this evening, as I need to buy scaffold netting from the shed before planting out. A job nearly done nonetheless. <br />
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Just in case I was feeling smug, I still need to lay weed suppressant and chippings on the paths, and I haven't made a start on the wild side of the 'fruit' beds running up the side of the plot. <br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KqRv-M45ee0/W1PPjTGXipI/AAAAAAAAGp8/VxeaMVVhY-w9o9sDeCDoZGAUBjOIHnqKACLcBGAs/s1600/20180721_204335%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KqRv-M45ee0/W1PPjTGXipI/AAAAAAAAGp8/VxeaMVVhY-w9o9sDeCDoZGAUBjOIHnqKACLcBGAs/s200/20180721_204335%255B1%255D.jpg" width="112" /></a>Issues to be dealt with there include working out how to weed big rooted weeds out of the asparagus bed without screwing the asparagus; removing Offspring of Bramble Intent on World Domination which still lurks; beating the red and blackcurrant bushes into some sort of shape; and getting shot of the couch grass which troubles the raspberry bed.<br />
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And all of this whilst wondering how to deal with the inevitable courgette glut that three plants are about to yield. Never mind - motown tribute act Mel Day just starting his set at the club house whilst I had a quick beer - left me humming 'my girl' all the way home. Hazelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18191107549698019812noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7862210932296767630.post-88611308248844529962018-07-19T23:12:00.000+01:002018-07-19T23:12:00.319+01:00Final Main Bed Refurb<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MbdlQK9-oAQ/W1ELuQhOtsI/AAAAAAAAGpk/6Qu9gXa3lCcFKUFzG7EDOFTSnI6qiFZggCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG-20180719-WA0001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MbdlQK9-oAQ/W1ELuQhOtsI/AAAAAAAAGpk/6Qu9gXa3lCcFKUFzG7EDOFTSnI6qiFZggCLcBGAs/s200/IMG-20180719-WA0001.jpg" width="112" /></a>I had a plan tonight - to re-stake bed8 and dig it over; harvest beans/ courgette/ rasps as applicable. My plan was scuppered a bit as I only had enough stakes at the plot to beef up one side of the bed, and I forgot to take punnets with me for the bounty.<br />
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So I made do with what I had, and will finish the the bed at the weekend, and dig over the other half; and will also be able to buy some netting from the shed to cover the blue hoops, and plant out the pot-bound, aphid infested cauli and cabbage which are languishing at home.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--9UxZrP1KtM/W1ELuemUxvI/AAAAAAAAGpo/hA5U-Iv0v7oWd6sAQi9o4TC88lkB_DzBgCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG-20180719-WA0002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--9UxZrP1KtM/W1ELuemUxvI/AAAAAAAAGpo/hA5U-Iv0v7oWd6sAQi9o4TC88lkB_DzBgCEwYBhgL/s200/IMG-20180719-WA0002.jpg" width="112" /></a>Quite a social one tonight - a couple of nearby plotholders where about watering, I saw Alan from the committee who came down for a chat, as well as Margie from the club house walking her lovely dog down the plots. Especially nice to see Zoe-next-plot - I'm surprised we don't bump into each other more often - we had a catch up as I forked out couch grass, and she ripped out raspberry suckers. I have her to thank for these pics - my phone battery was flat.<br />
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Even more social was popping into the club house for a quick beer afterwards - the ballroom dancers were in tonight, so I was treated to entertainment too. Marvellous.Hazelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18191107549698019812noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7862210932296767630.post-81262105214127319622018-07-18T00:20:00.000+01:002018-07-18T00:20:11.643+01:00Always Have 'a Plan'Despite a full evening at the Hill, because I have a number of current goals in mind (clear, re-stake and dig over bed8; weed, lay weed suppressant and woodchip the paths; water; pick stuff), I ended up tonight not finishing any of them, really.<br />
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It's still very dry indeed - although on my way back from running last night, I did get caught in a shower - enough to wet tarmac, not to water the crops - but enough to bring the weeds on.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-73oV7tVs6Wo/W054vBnaFXI/AAAAAAAAGpY/4HSkIEbI-48sJrPIuxzOqbGZSoiC0P4xACLcBGAs/s1600/20180717_205151.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="112" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-73oV7tVs6Wo/W054vBnaFXI/AAAAAAAAGpY/4HSkIEbI-48sJrPIuxzOqbGZSoiC0P4xACLcBGAs/s200/20180717_205151.jpg" width="200" /></a>I weeded two of the paths ready for laying weed suppressant, then bit the bullet and cleared bed8 of the 7' tall gone-to-seed parsnips and leeks. At least I can see where the bed edges should lie now, and the re-staking and final forking over is now an easier job for later in the week.<br />
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Those lavender bushes at the front of the plot - straggly and woody as they are - have been brilliant for bees, and although I have half a dozen new neat plants at home ready to replace these two, I'll wait until the bees are done.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sDelXo7exv8/W053yjDtT9I/AAAAAAAAGpE/wA6cF65YIesDW2FYtF-x3bq8hUrg2qWNwCLcBGAs/s1600/20180717_213459.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="112" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sDelXo7exv8/W053yjDtT9I/AAAAAAAAGpE/wA6cF65YIesDW2FYtF-x3bq8hUrg2qWNwCLcBGAs/s200/20180717_213459.jpg" width="200" /></a>I picked raspberries (going off now), french beans (in full production), the first of the runners, a few courgettes, and even a few first early potatoes. Five nice sized spuds from four plants is hardly a great yield, but maybe better than expected given the weather.Hazelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18191107549698019812noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7862210932296767630.post-77492655410293007482018-07-12T00:18:00.000+01:002018-07-12T00:18:10.717+01:00Just for Posterity<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kfyBxnCdkc0/W0aQCwBJtPI/AAAAAAAAGos/9u8M6r7qlaImCGtTPnfcddsMsn7UR2K6ACLcBGAs/s1600/20180711_183747%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kfyBxnCdkc0/W0aQCwBJtPI/AAAAAAAAGos/9u8M6r7qlaImCGtTPnfcddsMsn7UR2K6ACLcBGAs/s200/20180711_183747%255B1%255D.jpg" width="112" /></a>I nipped up to the Hill tonight to water those sad parched plants. A rare hot sunny Summer has been a delight for so many reasons, but for anything needing a bit of moisture (e.g. anything green, or anyone who runs), it's been a bit of a challenge.<br />
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Another rarity is the England footy team doing a bit well in - well - anything, so I was keen to go mad along with the rest of the country and get back in time to see how they got on the world cup semi-final (spoiler alert: er - not well). <br />
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But I was at the Hill long enough to take this 'before' pic of the next path for de-weeding, fabric suppressing and chipping.Hazelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18191107549698019812noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7862210932296767630.post-12225072524743538102018-07-11T11:08:00.000+01:002018-07-11T11:08:22.693+01:00Paths NextI am putting off tackling bed8 in terms of re-staking and getting it ready for planing, by using the excuse that the bees love the parsnip flowers. Well, they did, but they are setting seed now (which I don't need) so there is no excuse not to crack on.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ckhvVbsKhn0/W0XVuMenUSI/AAAAAAAAGoY/UJSjQz8K1FoMStqsmJaIgzlPRpIt9UcRwCLcBGAs/s1600/20180710_212342%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="112" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ckhvVbsKhn0/W0XVuMenUSI/AAAAAAAAGoY/UJSjQz8K1FoMStqsmJaIgzlPRpIt9UcRwCLcBGAs/s200/20180710_212342%255B1%255D.jpg" width="200" /></a>That aside, I decided to spend my time at the Hill last night on re-weeding the path between bed1 and bed2, putting down weed suppressant then chippings. Weeding paths is - again - like repainting the Forth road bridge, so an evening spent on solving the problem if not for good, then for the next two or three years is a good thing to do.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-w7hQuZeYHHg/W0XWdH9Pl6I/AAAAAAAAGog/QnM8rTINOdk_a1w26eMK31Vl3rSxhzy3gCLcBGAs/s1600/20180711_110352%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="112" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-w7hQuZeYHHg/W0XWdH9Pl6I/AAAAAAAAGog/QnM8rTINOdk_a1w26eMK31Vl3rSxhzy3gCLcBGAs/s200/20180711_110352%255B1%255D.jpg" width="200" /></a>Hardly a great amount achieved given the time there, but I did chat to Paul J and Eric as they came by, which is part of the fun.<br />
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Finished off by picking rasps, french beans and the first of the courgettes.<br />
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PS wonder why I never remember to take 'before' pics - it would be very impressive!Hazelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18191107549698019812noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7862210932296767630.post-48759764405644418472018-07-05T23:17:00.003+01:002018-07-05T23:17:58.472+01:00Forward ThinkingAfter tea round at mum's for half an hour - which somehow turned into nearly three - I didn't get to the Hill to finish off laying my weed suppressant and bark chippings until 9pm when it was nearly dusk. <br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZXkkPvt6dgk/Wz6XgOH9S3I/AAAAAAAAGoE/M1i4EYwteyE0_9PCzHNlk3eFlxAeF-BlACK4BGAYYCw/s1600/20180705_214445.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZXkkPvt6dgk/Wz6XgOH9S3I/AAAAAAAAGoE/M1i4EYwteyE0_9PCzHNlk3eFlxAeF-BlACK4BGAYYCw/s200/20180705_214445.jpg" width="200" /></a>Still, five dustbin-fuls of chippings from the plentiful pile just a couple of plots down and I finished the job. I think that the plan will be to do the same weed suppressant/ chippings exercise on all the paths - the weeds are rampant, again.<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1o43YXuZl80/Wz6X1oehzWI/AAAAAAAAGoQ/tnC1ROBZCdoLWypQ9y8bZGQ20lCFqHI4gCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/20180704_205716.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1o43YXuZl80/Wz6X1oehzWI/AAAAAAAAGoQ/tnC1ROBZCdoLWypQ9y8bZGQ20lCFqHI4gCK4BGAYYCw/s200/20180704_205716.jpg" width="200" /></a><br />
Once I've working down to bed8, I can then re-stake, and dig over, evicting the flowering leeks and parsnip. I have brassica to plant out, and new supplies of blue pipe to make a netting enclosure.<br />
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Thinking slightly further ahead, I will be digging up my poor dried up first early spuds shortly, and have nothing ready to go in the bed; although a rifle through the seed stocks the other day revealed plenty of those seed tapes. <br />
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I have had what you might call limited success with these (i.e. none), but if I have a bed doing nothing, they might as well go in (despite suitability or otherwise of time of year or crop 'family'). <br />
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Picked a punnet of raspberries in the gloom, then had a celebratory beer at the club house - gotta love Summer.Hazelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18191107549698019812noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7862210932296767630.post-44605997215400174892018-07-05T00:40:00.000+01:002018-07-05T00:46:08.530+01:00A New Space<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4IZqQREMBXg/Wz1aZKNoJXI/AAAAAAAAGn4/QBIk2bmPJOEC3fDs20VL46F0U1pzvJdZACK4BGAYYCw/s1600/20171203_160301.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4IZqQREMBXg/Wz1aZKNoJXI/AAAAAAAAGn4/QBIk2bmPJOEC3fDs20VL46F0U1pzvJdZACK4BGAYYCw/s200/20171203_160301.jpg" width="200" /></a>At the top end of the plot, the 20' by 10' area (where I spent a lot of time and effort earlier in the year getting shot of the bramble Intent On World Domination) is what you might call 'fallow'. i.e. cleared, mostly.<br />
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I've spend some time keeping the area weed free, but it is a bit like painting the Forth Road Bridge - a never ending task.<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-v5zacqkv6vA/Wz1Zgi3z58I/AAAAAAAAGng/ypI6lJk6zKMfIGvqIzAq3PLw72sZl25kACK4BGAYYCw/s1600/20180704_205433.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-v5zacqkv6vA/Wz1Zgi3z58I/AAAAAAAAGng/ypI6lJk6zKMfIGvqIzAq3PLw72sZl25kACK4BGAYYCw/s200/20180704_205433.jpg" width="200" /></a><br />
So today, I gave the area a final fork/weed; then a good hoeing to level, then started to lay weed suppressant and chippings on the area. It will afford a great view from the bench, and leave the area for future considered use.<br />
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Fruit trees perhaps?Hazelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18191107549698019812noreply@blogger.com0