tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-50933014398307286882024-03-05T04:27:52.199+00:00My Callowland AllotmentAllotment Plot RecordRookery69http://www.blogger.com/profile/06241771726288084267noreply@blogger.comBlogger26125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5093301439830728688.post-477215643283339962011-05-02T14:01:00.002+01:002011-05-02T14:10:47.717+01:00SunshineWow! A sunny bank holiday. I managed to spend the morning on the plot and got some good work done. Four rows of potatoes planted, there's now only two rows of main crop to go. The ground is so dry that I'm not sure how well they'll do. To keep them well watered is a mammoth task. Last year I was putting half a ton of water on the plot every other day.Rookery69http://www.blogger.com/profile/06241771726288084267noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5093301439830728688.post-78405188261049998052011-01-30T20:17:00.002+00:002011-01-30T20:23:52.169+00:00Android spudsI'm making this entry from my Android phone. I'm also about to order this season's potatoes using the same device. It's amazing what can be done with technology. Maybe this year I'll write blog entries while still on the plot. Allotments live. I can also add photos and video. Should keep things up to date. And no excuses for not writing entries.Rookery69http://www.blogger.com/profile/06241771726288084267noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5093301439830728688.post-30751569256638520142011-01-30T19:43:00.001+00:002011-01-30T20:17:18.687+00:00BarrowA big thank you to the person who stole my wheelbarrow from my plot. It was old and rusty and only really useful for old weeds and manure. I can only guess another plotholder took it as much better ones on nearby plots weren't taken. If I get another one I'll have to lock it to a tree. Shame.Rookery69http://www.blogger.com/profile/06241771726288084267noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5093301439830728688.post-26360722321982926472010-05-16T09:32:00.003+01:002010-05-16T09:57:18.512+01:00Jack FrostThe late frost of the past week took its toll on our potatoes. But luckily only one row was affected. Some of the other plots near ours were much worse hit. Next doors courgettes were decimated. I hadn't put anything tender out so all my plants are ok. I have just put in some beans so I'm keeping my fingers crossed that there'll be no more frosts. You can see the newly planted beans at the start of the video below.<br /><br /><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dw9cqj7VdPHIuFtk0ZiCJUcjwWZFoOpggxFBirJzFfLb5J5uvF_-2gEGsWGqC7Ao9bC58kLBpXTtBLQdEVncw' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe>Rookery69http://www.blogger.com/profile/06241771726288084267noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5093301439830728688.post-30161697432545130572010-05-03T22:33:00.005+01:002010-05-03T22:46:35.424+01:00Take a LeekIf you grow the right things there's always something fresh to take home, no matter what time of year it is. As the potatoes get planted and everything else gets started I'm always taking home a few fresh leeks. These were grown from seed last year. I started them in a seed tray. When they were about 9 inches tall I planted them out on the plot. This was in late July. They've been growing nicely ever since. The first ones were ready a couple of months ago and there's enough left for another few weeks.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkLe9FB6E_Uv4pIhszHj9ELjLyJKFMRJ5qPaS_kuY_QkPzQ1Zp0YRjsx9e8UNHTaikfUXBm4gbAoUGkaee6sBPKX6gwCtdBl0RTH8yeJ1UtFTb0RO8u0zvBb9Vm_PsyFfFtM1KOGZyzFAy/s1600/leeks.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkLe9FB6E_Uv4pIhszHj9ELjLyJKFMRJ5qPaS_kuY_QkPzQ1Zp0YRjsx9e8UNHTaikfUXBm4gbAoUGkaee6sBPKX6gwCtdBl0RTH8yeJ1UtFTb0RO8u0zvBb9Vm_PsyFfFtM1KOGZyzFAy/s320/leeks.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5467161743551937010" border="0" /></a>Leeks can be used to add flavour to lots of dishes. We've found that if they're chopped up and simmered in vegetable stock for about 20 minutes they make a really good acompliment to roast chicken. They are also superb in a risotto and even our children like them cooked like this.<br /><br />The variety above are 'Musselburgh'. This year I'm growing 'Musselburgh Improved'. I'll be disappointed if I don't think they are better.Rookery69http://www.blogger.com/profile/06241771726288084267noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5093301439830728688.post-82352172386078457662010-05-03T22:18:00.003+01:002010-05-03T22:33:13.024+01:004th YearDespite the lack of blog entrees, we have been busy on our plot. The last of the seed potatoes have just gone in. This is a little later than previous years but with the cold winter the soil has taken a little longer to warm up. April was very dry. In fact I don't think we had any rain at all in April. Luckily for the plot the Mayday bank holiday weekend saved the day. As often happens - it poured down.<br /><br />We've put some onions in. This year we started the onions sets in seed trays at home and then planted them out when there was about 3 inches of green out the top. We haven't had much success with onions so far. They have never got very big. It will be interesting to see if things improve this year.<br /><br />We've also got all the tender plants started in pots at home. The consevatory and bath room are full of seed trays and pots containing squash, pumpkins, beans and sweetcorn. The seeds have only been planted 10 days but have already germinated and are growing quite well. As I write the forecast is for a possible frost tonight but with it warming up as we go through the week. I won't be tempted to plant these out too early but also I don't want them getting pot bound. It's a balancing act which I hope I can get write.<br /><br />I've also started off the tomatoes. I'm growing 'sweet olive' again this year as I was really impressed by them last year. The other variety I'm growing is the old tried and tested favourite 'moneymaker'. I've also got some lettuce on the go in front of the garage. This is the most slug proof location I've found. And I've put two spare seed potatoes in an old waste bin with compost. <br /><br />This will be my 4th year on my plot. I'll try to post reguarly so you can follow how I get on.Rookery69http://www.blogger.com/profile/06241771726288084267noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5093301439830728688.post-49592462561195181032009-09-10T09:12:00.002+01:002009-09-10T09:20:38.441+01:00Swine FluI'm currently in bed with suspect swine flu. I'm not having much luck this year with getting on the plot. Luckily my father has been harvesting and I've got sacks of potatoes in my garage ( nice and clean, no scab or blight yet ), a fridge full of courgettes and a freezer full of runner and french beans ( despite it being a very poor year for beans on my plot). The beans and courgettes have now finished. There are still plenty more potatoes to dig up.<br /><br />There are also the butternut squash and pumpkins still growing so I'm looking forward to seeing how they are doing. And I want to see if the sprouts have caught up as they were a little slow to get going.<br /><br />At home my cherry tomatoes have been excellent. The new for 2009 variety 'Sweet Olive' that I tried have been superb. Loads of fruit and in my opinion the best tasting cherry toms I've ever had. They were better than the cherry toms I had in Italy during my 2 week holiday there and that's saying something.<br /><br />I'll get some pictures at the weekend to show how things are.Rookery69http://www.blogger.com/profile/06241771726288084267noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5093301439830728688.post-76730785464110556222009-07-06T10:57:00.002+01:002009-07-06T11:04:37.742+01:00CourgettesWe harvested our first courgettes yesterday, and it looks like there are many more on the way.<br /><br />The early potatoes are disappointing still. There aren't many of them yet. More rain is needed.<br /><br />The runner beans and french beans are still struggling but this seems to be a general trend across the whole site. I'm still hopeful that they will recover and provide a good harvest. Mind you, runner beans don't like temperatures above 28C, so last weeks 30 plus will have slowed them down even further.<br /><br />On the home front my 'Sweet Olive' cherry tomatoes have set two or three trusses. I think that if we get some good sunshine this week the first ones will be ripe by next weekend. I can't wait to taste them.<br /><br />I've still got some sprouts and leeks in my cold frame at home. I really need to get them planted out. Last week was just to hot for any concerted effort. Forecast is for cooler weather this week so we should be able to get the job done.Rookery69http://www.blogger.com/profile/06241771726288084267noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5093301439830728688.post-4669467195423424082009-06-22T12:16:00.003+01:002009-06-22T12:29:24.551+01:00Neck RotI was able to get to the plot today. I took some photos which have been added to the previous post. The most obvious thing was how quickly the weeds had grown up and taken over. It's going to take some serious work to clear them once I'm fit again.<br /><br />I harvested all our garlic, about 20 bulbs in total. Some seemed to be suffering from neck rot while others had mildewy bulbs. Usually my garlic is resilient to most things but perhaps this variety is not so good. I'll have to rack my brains to see if I can remember the variety I planted. Anyway, the goods bulbs are now out in the sun drying and will last us for a few months.<br /><br />One plant that I have not had much luck on the plot with is tomatoes. They just have never done very well. I now grow them at home infront of a south facing garage door. It must be an ideal spot for them as they seem to thrive there. I'm growing 'Gardeners delight' - a traditional favourite cherry tomato : 'Money Maker' - a standard salad tomato : and 'Sweet Olive' - a new F1 variety which gives Italian plum shape cherry tomatoes. Sweet Olive is doing very well and I'm quite excited to see what the fruit is like. A good warm, sunny week is forecast and I'm hoping that by the end of the week I'll have my first set tomatoes.Rookery69http://www.blogger.com/profile/06241771726288084267noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5093301439830728688.post-6551247031487031002009-06-21T10:12:00.004+01:002009-06-22T12:13:16.304+01:00Missing ItWell again I find myself recovering following an operation and unable to work on the plot. I am indebted to my dad for keeping it running. It's very frustrating as it's a key time to be working. There are the weeds to control, watering to be done and the first harvests are under way.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhltBI-B8wkktlM_lu1h9Ovr1zKL5YUX6BaP5ULFHXShmn-fQ1DoAcoNuOu2pNmJdLM14bpLqLU8CpnkS_rf4Nz4X878vC1F1QF2UmQbJVTZliCZ4hBqUECHiad-1dxsqeHjteZ4hRjpm9n/s1600-h/107_0262.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 194px; height: 130px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhltBI-B8wkktlM_lu1h9Ovr1zKL5YUX6BaP5ULFHXShmn-fQ1DoAcoNuOu2pNmJdLM14bpLqLU8CpnkS_rf4Nz4X878vC1F1QF2UmQbJVTZliCZ4hBqUECHiad-1dxsqeHjteZ4hRjpm9n/s320/107_0262.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5350106226709984114" border="0" /></a><br />The winter broad beans did well but would probably have been even better with a bit more rain in April and May. By my reckoning they were 3 weeks ahead of some nearby spring planted beans. Once again i'm thinking is it worth planting them in the autumn? Also, no one else in my family likes them so they make not be grown next year!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8fk28TKGecYRrHqEhMjtoyWzURWP9BRrtJJSJMBoqsJdX-L7q5PbW2KojZN1hsZrffrNiHzVZmSP_Amb1XjEedYeUqw_TMGcYlhMuZVfIFGzplY-b9bjjjkmdLX9i9Ptn2z8DwdhWx1NN/s1600-h/107_0258.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 134px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8fk28TKGecYRrHqEhMjtoyWzURWP9BRrtJJSJMBoqsJdX-L7q5PbW2KojZN1hsZrffrNiHzVZmSP_Amb1XjEedYeUqw_TMGcYlhMuZVfIFGzplY-b9bjjjkmdLX9i9Ptn2z8DwdhWx1NN/s200/107_0258.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5350106786545421426" border="0" /></a></div>We dug up some new potatoes 10 weeks after planting but they were about 2cm across. They were not baby potatoes, more like foetal potatoes. Again, the dry weather has probably held them back a bit. I will be trying again this week and I'm drooling with anticipation at the flavour.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj324olTzK0924gwSm_geZnsm8M1b6g5Ijet9NZvThpXkotgDIpj1N3e6gaCBaX683UNo2tWJfR1DyhLzSz4t7VHCG6stK3b3DRpvFxcAlSpFwqnJ9haAhU0meFS9okU1TBxzQ1h1_exhRo/s1600-h/107_0257.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 134px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj324olTzK0924gwSm_geZnsm8M1b6g5Ijet9NZvThpXkotgDIpj1N3e6gaCBaX683UNo2tWJfR1DyhLzSz4t7VHCG6stK3b3DRpvFxcAlSpFwqnJ9haAhU0meFS9okU1TBxzQ1h1_exhRo/s200/107_0257.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5350107292120450690" border="0" /></a><br />The runner and french beans went in during the middle of May. We then had a week of very windy weather. I don't think they liked this and have struggled to take a hold. I want to see how they are this week as they usually seem to recover well and we always have more than enough beans at the end of the season.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKupTwHY5xmf_wYkq2R5RHjh-mD4rztI5fcM-Rz_WHKoAtVvEckNce3o8m-sQWNpLDwD2k9HKpgRl2q_5f2IeTY6djQny6OfHVmV6UZi0SE4mSSu-2v0Vlv7xLcrjAvWX6e1mOFE6I0reo/s1600-h/107_0259.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 134px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKupTwHY5xmf_wYkq2R5RHjh-mD4rztI5fcM-Rz_WHKoAtVvEckNce3o8m-sQWNpLDwD2k9HKpgRl2q_5f2IeTY6djQny6OfHVmV6UZi0SE4mSSu-2v0Vlv7xLcrjAvWX6e1mOFE6I0reo/s200/107_0259.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5350107772761818066" border="0" /></a><br />The courgettes, squash and pumpkins went in at the end of May and are doing well. The first courgettes are now showing. After growing 18 courgette plants last year and harvesting a Kg a day I have learnt my lesson and have only got 5 plants this year.<br /><br />T<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyIioX8Tbs2yDV-zplA5Rf84RfCD8llDlETZWn62QnUBqKSokuNDA4rNQKPbzJWJa6i3HdjjXxrEFE7E-MNvYz8YWufqhICZSlnBcto5l3i7SMzwCZQP5hNc6U8j8PjGw_eLXoKKWHU63u/s1600-h/107_0260.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 134px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyIioX8Tbs2yDV-zplA5Rf84RfCD8llDlETZWn62QnUBqKSokuNDA4rNQKPbzJWJa6i3HdjjXxrEFE7E-MNvYz8YWufqhICZSlnBcto5l3i7SMzwCZQP5hNc6U8j8PjGw_eLXoKKWHU63u/s200/107_0260.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5350108196618330738" border="0" /></a>he asparagus (asparagi?) are all growing and have broken the surface. This is a long term project as the rewards will be seen in 2011.<br /><br />Hopefully I'll get on the plot soon. I'll take a camera and get some more pictures up on here.Rookery69http://www.blogger.com/profile/06241771726288084267noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5093301439830728688.post-52167983677842452752009-05-03T11:03:00.006+01:002009-05-05T08:57:30.756+01:00Winter Veg<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7mQS03REDBaQi78hX3K3yyvkRDOxIiBk35TCYOpvp3-YzbEwoOdwJs7HIOqWt8lvI9_zh_Y2KIoOf72yt1j9CnbGXCQhPYg7XISt2gmtTDNC1kvMQLgybQz37IBBsktoQ-DvZ_Sp9HHh6/s1600-h/DSC_1761.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 213px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7mQS03REDBaQi78hX3K3yyvkRDOxIiBk35TCYOpvp3-YzbEwoOdwJs7HIOqWt8lvI9_zh_Y2KIoOf72yt1j9CnbGXCQhPYg7XISt2gmtTDNC1kvMQLgybQz37IBBsktoQ-DvZ_Sp9HHh6/s320/DSC_1761.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5331536702321687586" border="0" /></a>We planted some winter broad beans towards the end of 2008. They have come along nicely and as can be seen are now covered in flower. We now need to give them a bit of support to ensure they are not blown over and damaged. However in an adjacent plot there are some spring planted beans that are only a bit smaller than ours. It does beg the question if it is worth planting a winter variety. We'll see what the advantage is when it's time to harvest.<br /><br />We also planted our garlic in October 2008. Garlic grows best when it has a prolonged period below 7 deg C. Therefore it is ideally suited to the British climate. It also stores well so a row of garlic will last a long time once harvested. The garlic can be seen at the front of the picture below.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguDv3h-Wy_ya8S7BDpPgFlJ-SN7TxKR9SZu1Ie42KBVHi2S7g8P40tvgWdA6BIMb6U9oOsjzi8FL9i_TxXAjnxWYPEnClhbK9dj76h3GoqzGXWPpiCrNEPSIBaB4y2-8G4BnEIrjwSMwfM/s1600-h/DSC_1763.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguDv3h-Wy_ya8S7BDpPgFlJ-SN7TxKR9SZu1Ie42KBVHi2S7g8P40tvgWdA6BIMb6U9oOsjzi8FL9i_TxXAjnxWYPEnClhbK9dj76h3GoqzGXWPpiCrNEPSIBaB4y2-8G4BnEIrjwSMwfM/s320/DSC_1763.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5331539228604929954" border="0" /></a><br />We also put in some winter onions. We planted both red and white varities and these are doing quite well. Onions don't like to have weeds around them and by growing over winter they can develop in a relatively weed free situation. Now it's warming up the weeds are starting to grow so we'll have to get to work with a hoe. That's the reason rows are planted at least 8 inches apart. It gives you enough room to work the hoe between them. Again, as with most things grown on the plot, the onions will keep well in an open mesh bag in the garage. We actually still have some from mid 2008 that are perfectly good to eat.Rookery69http://www.blogger.com/profile/06241771726288084267noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5093301439830728688.post-90154170356059489612009-05-03T10:35:00.003+01:002009-05-03T10:56:59.357+01:00Potatoes<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTxKua9Wl4OEKloV1suim9Oc8zSSK1rBLT44YyFKKVJBj4_D4Xxag95McWejJK7fe_yvfXOw0k1LV0RqjTs8QX43jsI4cl8YTmkPFvd-w5gH3SZSbLeqEUshIbEXo4o3JG1M0c3ylPSJiq/s1600-h/DSC_1766.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTxKua9Wl4OEKloV1suim9Oc8zSSK1rBLT44YyFKKVJBj4_D4Xxag95McWejJK7fe_yvfXOw0k1LV0RqjTs8QX43jsI4cl8YTmkPFvd-w5gH3SZSbLeqEUshIbEXo4o3JG1M0c3ylPSJiq/s320/DSC_1766.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5331529476533673618" border="0" /></a><br />The potatoes are all in now. You can see what we've planted in the growing today section on the right. The first earlies were planted in the third week of March. More were planted each week until the late maincrop went in at the end of April. Earlies need 10 to 12 weeks of growing before digging up whereas the maincrop need about 20 weeks. This means the first new potatoes will be ready at the start of June and we'll be harvesting until the end of September. We put in 140 seed potatoes. Even with only 1kg of spuds per plant that's still 140Kg. With the manure and added organic potato fertiliser I would be hopeful of getting at least 200Kg of spuds in 2009.<br /><br />When it's time to harvest they'll go into potato sacks. Last year's crop were still being eaten in January this year. Unlike shop bought spuds which sprout after a few days, even in the dark, the allotment spuds are happy in a sack in the garage for a few months. Makes you wonder what they do to the shop spuds before they sell them.<br /><br />And when it comes to taste there is no comparison to the shop bought stuff. That was the biggest revelation the first time I grew my own potatoes. They actually had flavour and the different varieties could be told apart. As it's such a staple of the British diet it's amazing what we put up with from the supermarkets. If there's one thing I'd recommend, even if you only have a small back garden, it's to grow some potatoes. You can do this in an old dustbin, a large sack or a special potato planter. Get some good seed potatoes and see the difference. There are plenty of internet sites which give advice on how to do this.Rookery69http://www.blogger.com/profile/06241771726288084267noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5093301439830728688.post-80844557797460489572009-05-03T10:20:00.002+01:002009-05-03T10:32:36.946+01:00A load of $%&*<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil47jWYuythgvIDEHfjdxYrW-CL3G0JkSzVjVmspan_POxjLPkQHUs8I3WGWrRjv0WyF4TO0EiZKHitp1ju8kahd0R98iNmS9SQwVZGrDPbEvcboVdDxYik4mzNAm41g2EY5i-b3kZwP8I/s1600-h/DSC_1768.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 133px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil47jWYuythgvIDEHfjdxYrW-CL3G0JkSzVjVmspan_POxjLPkQHUs8I3WGWrRjv0WyF4TO0EiZKHitp1ju8kahd0R98iNmS9SQwVZGrDPbEvcboVdDxYik4mzNAm41g2EY5i-b3kZwP8I/s200/DSC_1768.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5331525495908939794" border="0" /></a><br />A few weeks ago we became proud owners of a trailer load of horse $%&*. We had to pay for it (there are probably people somewhere who will give it away) but for the quantity we received it was good value. What needs to be remembered is that growing vegetables take a lot out of the soil. A good way to put it back is by using manure. It not only adds to the soil nutritionally but improves the composition by adding organic matter. We have already used it to bottom fill the potato trenches (potatoes require a lot of food), spread it over the asparagus bed and put loads into the bean pits. I'm expecting a good crop from the beans this year. What's left of the pile will be dug in over the rest of the plot as required.<br /><br />We got our manure from a contact number displayed in the allotment shop. The load arrived bang on time and the tractor driver was able to skillfully drop it on the end of our plot. It may be $%&* but it's good $%&* !Rookery69http://www.blogger.com/profile/06241771726288084267noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5093301439830728688.post-50555397634349077322009-05-03T09:56:00.003+01:002009-05-03T10:09:55.223+01:00Asparagus<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtdg1EuEjMr_Vbp2enIkN4I4bMr5MCIDne1Q891ilskOCjBVZ6IWvwAQAuZtx-yM0RzRQqcir8qnTVi2tt-ohDwY3Ogek828Qh9DG_MjUI9vf8YME_iT_5Nj3Cr8oDP4AeDhPS9HqsPhEO/s1600-h/DSC_1767.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtdg1EuEjMr_Vbp2enIkN4I4bMr5MCIDne1Q891ilskOCjBVZ6IWvwAQAuZtx-yM0RzRQqcir8qnTVi2tt-ohDwY3Ogek828Qh9DG_MjUI9vf8YME_iT_5Nj3Cr8oDP4AeDhPS9HqsPhEO/s320/DSC_1767.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5331520749738722882" border="0" /></a><br />Here's a picture of the raised bed where I planted 10 crowns of asparagus, variety guelph millenium. Asparagus really needs to be free of weeds but I doubt if that will be the case here. I'm not keen on using any chemicals to kill weeds so I didn't prepare the ground very well. I will probably have to keep this free by hand. Three weeks after planting the first asparagus tip has appeared. However I must resist temptation. Asparagus should not be cut in its first year. And even in the second year it's wise to harvest exceedingly sparingly. It will be 2011 before I get the full benefit of this years planting. The wait will be worth it though!Rookery69http://www.blogger.com/profile/06241771726288084267noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5093301439830728688.post-5247724855864295342009-05-02T09:24:00.002+01:002009-05-02T09:28:20.067+01:00Mushroom<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwkCcJ_RMYVSza4xhuUKxvKLiED1grt_rUNIeziNvpYaOhtMELXdDuF8Qiw_sohClAwzCvNZzmQJA-iEC7DAndOCzM9J7sdEjsRu3dBCIoJOsuBBZJfY8LKvPfGYlvMU6KO_XFTDa34JqD/s1600-h/DSC_1774.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 213px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwkCcJ_RMYVSza4xhuUKxvKLiED1grt_rUNIeziNvpYaOhtMELXdDuF8Qiw_sohClAwzCvNZzmQJA-iEC7DAndOCzM9J7sdEjsRu3dBCIoJOsuBBZJfY8LKvPfGYlvMU6KO_XFTDa34JqD/s320/DSC_1774.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5331140490754840658" border="0" /></a><br />I'm not a funghi expert but as this grew up out of the manure I guess it's a horse mushroom!Rookery69http://www.blogger.com/profile/06241771726288084267noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5093301439830728688.post-86782904333926538052009-04-05T22:16:00.003+01:002009-04-05T22:24:55.088+01:00My First Comment!This blog is mainly for my own benefit as I record what I do on my plot. But of course it is on the WWW so anyone can read it. And that is what has happened as I have received my first comment! It's from a new plot holder at the allotments so if you read this, thank you and welcome to Callowland Allotments. The comment also stated that 23 new plot holders were shown around and allocated plots a couple of weeks ago. This is certainly evident as the site is busier than I have seen it over the last two years and there are a lot of new faces around. It's good to see.<br /><br />This is another 'wordy' post so I'll take my camera along next time and post some photos of how things are progressing. Yesterday afternoon was spent putting a raised bed in and planting my asparagus crowns. It was very dry so the rain forecast for this week will be very welcome. The potatoes will appreciate it.Rookery69http://www.blogger.com/profile/06241771726288084267noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5093301439830728688.post-29660729962380231282009-03-16T22:07:00.002+00:002009-03-17T09:35:18.424+00:00EditorialMy residents association asked me to write an article on allotments for their newsletter. It is shown below. It appears they like it and want me to turn it into a series. Crikey!<br /><br />"There's nothing quite like picking or digging up your own fruit and vegetables. It's when you taste 'home grown' produce that you start to wonder how the supermarket stuff has been treated and what has caused it to lose so much taste and texture. As more people discover this difference so the interest in 'growing your own' increases. For some it is possible to set aside a part of their garden for growing. For others the only option is to use containers on the patio. Both of these can produce fruit and vegetables of the highest order but to grow the quantity and variety that can really make a difference to the diet and the budget, an allotment is the best option.</p> <p class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><br /></p> <p class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">Allotments can be traced back many hundreds of years but are probably best known for their contribution during both the world wars. It is estimated that during WWII there were approximately 1.4 million plots in active use. By the end of the 20<sup>th</sup> century the estimate was less than 300,000. However as awareness of healthy eating and the value of fresh produce has been extolled by various celebrity chefs, and as gardens have got smaller and towns more crowded so allotments have seen something of a renaissance. They are no longer seen as the providence of the 'old flat cap brigade'. It could almost be claimed that having an allotment is the trendy thing to do these days.</p> <p class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><br /></p> <p class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">The allotments in Watford are owned by the council. They have 13 sites around the borough varying in size from about 15 plots to over 250 plots. A 'standard' plot is 10 poles in size (a pole is an old measure of area roughly equivalent to 25 sq m). Due to the current demand more 5 pole plots are being let to enable more people to grow their own. The cost is just over £2 per pole per year so it isn't a big expense. You are however required to keep it cultivated so a certain level of commitment is required. Information on getting an allotment can obtained from the council.</p> <p class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><br /></p> <p class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">Unfortunately for Nascot residents there are no allotments in our ward. Once again we miss out when it comes to green spaces and it is difficult to see where any provision could made for some. However I know of quite a few residents who do have a plot somewhere in the borough so don't let this put you off.</p> <p class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><br /></p> <p class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">If you do decide to get an allotment, what can you expect? Despite some claims you will most probably get a plot covered in grass and weeds. This is when the 'exercise' starts. It is possible to mechanically clear and turn over the plot but to get the health benefit and for the most complete removal of unwanted plants nothing beats digging with a fork. Do a little at a time, especially if you're not used to digging. Take breaks to look at other plots. Use this as inspiration. And don't be afraid to talk to other plot holders. Almost without exception they are a very friendly lot and are very willing to hand out advice and quite often spare seeds and plants. Look to get something growing as soon as possible, even if it's only in the first few yards of your plot. The excitement of seeing something growing that you planted yourself is a wonderful feeling.</p> <p class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><br /></p> <p class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">It is possible to keep a plot in good shape with a couple of hours work most weeks. The initial digging may be a bit more intensive but after this it's a matter of fighting the weeds, watering in the dry spells and preparation for planting. You will probably have to go more frequently once you start to harvest as some plants benefit from frequent picking and you may be surprised at the quantity of produce. You can also go to just enjoy being outside on your own 'plot of land', without doing any work.</p> <p class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><br /></p> <p class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">For many the smell of freshly cut grass is evocative. For allotment holders nothing beats the taste of the first baby new potatoes, boiled with a sprig of mint and served with a knob of butter. If you've thought about it why not give it a go? It's extremely rewarding and probably easier than you think."</p> <p class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><br /></p>Rookery69http://www.blogger.com/profile/06241771726288084267noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5093301439830728688.post-50927249765677131532009-03-10T15:00:00.003+00:002009-03-10T15:14:16.932+00:002009 - Here We Come<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg_hRKhRaPnOBsmEy4_Jpz52quv6N3IsIvbBKcdYEprtPPCJjPDX5Ran3QU4Gyjz3fGWalIeitoTctLb3__eCaxgO91DNG010fLPnLo1VfYorBq_3n98tVZNZF809asrgNJgXfCuC7MJpu/s1600-h/100_0155.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg_hRKhRaPnOBsmEy4_Jpz52quv6N3IsIvbBKcdYEprtPPCJjPDX5Ran3QU4Gyjz3fGWalIeitoTctLb3__eCaxgO91DNG010fLPnLo1VfYorBq_3n98tVZNZF809asrgNJgXfCuC7MJpu/s320/100_0155.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5311574926730468018" border="0" /></a><br />Well we're into March 2009. It was only a few weeks ago when the plot looked like this. The snow lay around for 10 days or so and there wasn't much to be done apart from order seed potatoes, asparagus crowns and vegetable seeds. The seed potatoes have now arrived and the earlies are chitting in my garage. Another week or so and it'll be time to plant them.<br /><br />Over the winter we have expanded our plot to our rightful 10 poles. We're going to use the extra land for perennial veg and fruit. I've got 10 asparagus crowns on order. These will go into a raised bed although I'll have to wait a couple of years before I can collect any shoots. I'm also getting a couple of rhubarb crowns. And the strawberry plants from around the plot will be given a permanent home.<br /><br />On the main area the ground has been dug over and is ready for the potatoes. We've also got some winter onions and broad beans growing. There is also a row of garlic. We're still waiting to get a load of manure and this will be used for the bean pits.<br /><br />The brussel sprouts were disappointing but that's most probably because I sowed the seeds too late. I'm better prepared this year and hope to have some available for the christmas dinner!<br /><br />One thing has been noted and that is the increase in the number of active plotholders near my plot. The only unworked plot in the vicinity is the one to the left of ours. Here's hoping someone takes it up soon. Growing your own really is the new thing.Rookery69http://www.blogger.com/profile/06241771726288084267noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5093301439830728688.post-75254140093854259172008-07-18T09:45:00.001+01:002008-07-18T09:51:00.778+01:00ApologiesHello all. Apologies for not posting for so long. It was very busy last year with moving house twice and the birth of our second child. I wasn't able to spend as much time on the plot as I wanted and in fact was very grateful to my father who has put in a lot of time to keep it going until this year.<br /><br />But I'm now back and growing veg.<br /><br />We've managed to clear almost the complete plot now and have veg growing all over it. We're starting to see the fruits of our labour with the first courgettes and french beans being picked. The new potatos have been excellent and they are so superior to those you can buy in the supermarket. I'll soon have some pictures of the produce and hope to have regular updates on the blog. The currently growing list is now correct.Rookery69http://www.blogger.com/profile/06241771726288084267noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5093301439830728688.post-10343078366846491522007-06-17T19:31:00.000+01:002007-06-17T19:42:53.932+01:00Holiday<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE0grJ8EQ53RX67GalxpeN1mQiPerAflwE4zg7dZBtmWg940DMH6l8T32-ucXSaseOrNhVQgbZZJ6vnI1GQ9DBBomAIX6CHQSbvD6EQg_vydqJGXml3XU4Yzj_DOSdIKrK-sVgqZVSoWVi/s1600-h/101_0136.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE0grJ8EQ53RX67GalxpeN1mQiPerAflwE4zg7dZBtmWg940DMH6l8T32-ucXSaseOrNhVQgbZZJ6vnI1GQ9DBBomAIX6CHQSbvD6EQg_vydqJGXml3XU4Yzj_DOSdIKrK-sVgqZVSoWVi/s200/101_0136.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5077104028355541042" border="0" /></a><br />I've just had a week on holiday down in Looe, Cornwall. I managed to get along to the Eden Project and it was interesting to see their runner beans almost to the top of their poles. My beans are still struggling to make a start up their poles. All the weeds had grown around them and were harbouring lots of slugs and snails. The beans had provided a feast but there was still plenty left to work with. There was nothing for it but to hand <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs0vfJaiCwrT6VP9NwkWBZA5PNkLkd9oPsdw6CkTkVMuoy9pfkSRpeR9AprnlCpGZEzBzhf8lJy0rgHtPyD4aGmzzJD7FgklOdlt0y45GcRF_XpoPbh9fRCxPYZy_4dmhFADYzXKKWgON0/s1600-h/101_0135.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs0vfJaiCwrT6VP9NwkWBZA5PNkLkd9oPsdw6CkTkVMuoy9pfkSRpeR9AprnlCpGZEzBzhf8lJy0rgHtPyD4aGmzzJD7FgklOdlt0y45GcRF_XpoPbh9fRCxPYZy_4dmhFADYzXKKWgON0/s200/101_0135.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5077104956068476994" border="0" /></a>weed all around them. The Borlotti beans hadn't been eaten much. That was worth noting for the future.<br /><br />The potatoes are doing well. The plants are getting bigger. Soon their dense foilage will stop most of the weeds growing around them. I'm already looking forward to harvesting them.<br /><br />Luckily there was plenty of rain while I was away so the plot didn't suffer from a lack of water.Rookery69http://www.blogger.com/profile/06241771726288084267noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5093301439830728688.post-63487331901147059732007-06-06T22:08:00.001+01:002007-06-06T22:13:45.117+01:00Wheelbarrow<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEkjt-P_A_8oXzniKpsy4PW21-k9pXIrI2WaCwYVNBOYBG2nI0JT5JTRHVxzcLcjMzmOTxLxb4sYYrMDMNvjBLK-wNTO3bFG1IQeb2q02OS4yyunFyq5J6qkWntA_x3-vTjCByF7_Fbx59/s1600-h/DSC_0910.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEkjt-P_A_8oXzniKpsy4PW21-k9pXIrI2WaCwYVNBOYBG2nI0JT5JTRHVxzcLcjMzmOTxLxb4sYYrMDMNvjBLK-wNTO3bFG1IQeb2q02OS4yyunFyq5J6qkWntA_x3-vTjCByF7_Fbx59/s320/DSC_0910.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5073061733985564690" border="0" /></a><br />Luckily for me there was an old wheelbarrow on the plot when I took it over. The frame is broken so it can't take much weight but it has been invaluable in moving the weeds and grass that I have dug up. Sadly I wouldn't be able to leave a decent barrow on the plot as I'm sure it would disappear so I don't know what I'd have done without this one. Has anyone yet designed a vandal proof shed?Rookery69http://www.blogger.com/profile/06241771726288084267noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5093301439830728688.post-86902918514421171472007-06-05T20:21:00.001+01:002007-06-05T20:34:57.107+01:00Progress<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4I9gQrJRw1V8OTIFEgWZYkisOCqJ7QXtJdxoTaSMWWBTjtRIaSfBtShVnyb1fuFl0wztBpXchFQ-SCq3c6kta3Nb2OB7iBs-6yffLFO1d7G4WNyY3L_jrlxRJTfADLljPjMVK1_WJkG2_/s1600-h/DSC_0899.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4I9gQrJRw1V8OTIFEgWZYkisOCqJ7QXtJdxoTaSMWWBTjtRIaSfBtShVnyb1fuFl0wztBpXchFQ-SCq3c6kta3Nb2OB7iBs-6yffLFO1d7G4WNyY3L_jrlxRJTfADLljPjMVK1_WJkG2_/s200/DSC_0899.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5072664080143497202" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Here's a picture to show how things are progressing. You can compare it with the picture on the right showing how the <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_rTKPQG-66w64bReeAFo-xS610l1UXURH8w4rAqDksAXR4kr1RJc8g2GVMvS3e9PTmpqgBIGfz0O34zfoFf1FQD5X_9_hfKA3pr_2PothDLIBBpvHvmdLyryGAuDlYkGnrfde4JJc8ag2/s1600-h/DSC_0770.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_rTKPQG-66w64bReeAFo-xS610l1UXURH8w4rAqDksAXR4kr1RJc8g2GVMvS3e9PTmpqgBIGfz0O34zfoFf1FQD5X_9_hfKA3pr_2PothDLIBBpvHvmdLyryGAuDlYkGnrfde4JJc8ag2/s200/DSC_0770.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5072663508912846818" border="0" /></a>plot looked when I took it on. It's a shame the plots either side are uncultivated as they're a constant source of weed and grass seeds. I'm not sure how long they have to be left before they are passed on to someone else. It would be good to have some neighbours.Rookery69http://www.blogger.com/profile/06241771726288084267noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5093301439830728688.post-54070618392372057082007-06-05T20:12:00.000+01:002007-06-05T20:39:11.404+01:00Slugs and Snails<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgS8V3mJaFkUPtVAUiKHFICcBmqH8p0dtsSQFCkuVFqJZ-v-IkuRbQCxUjDe4fNUQwZdvE98XYwnV261FX_aJ4-G0YU8rNg3d0O75qHQuT6UgkcOETUz2oy22EeqsL2zc2U3US9ymidxnT/s1600-h/DSC_0908.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgS8V3mJaFkUPtVAUiKHFICcBmqH8p0dtsSQFCkuVFqJZ-v-IkuRbQCxUjDe4fNUQwZdvE98XYwnV261FX_aJ4-G0YU8rNg3d0O75qHQuT6UgkcOETUz2oy22EeqsL2zc2U3US9ymidxnT/s320/DSC_0908.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5072666850397403138" border="0" /></a><br /><br />I think the only way to beat slugs and snails is to sit up all night and pick them off one by one. They will always attack your young plants as can be seen in the picture of one of my beans. Even though it looks bad I am hopeful the beans in the picture will recover. The dry spell this week seems to have kept the slugs and snails away and the beans will soon be climbing and growing strongly.<br /><br />There are many methods for keeping the slugs and snails away but I've never found one that works.Rookery69http://www.blogger.com/profile/06241771726288084267noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5093301439830728688.post-67029687180099819322007-06-02T20:33:00.000+01:002007-06-02T20:51:49.714+01:00UK Bank HolidayNow there's a surprise. The Whitsun bank holiday weekend was a washout. It was cold as well. However one week later and I have been digging away in temperatures up to 26 degrees. Having started with a 5 pole plot that was completely covered in grass, weeds and spinach I have now cleared half the plot. <br /><br />On the back half the grass is about three feet tall so I gave it a spray with some Round-Up. I'm not keen on using chemicals but sometimes it's just about the only way. The council website promises to supply a plot covered in black fabric. However I wasn't fortunate to get any and from talking to other plotholders it sounds that even if you do have some it tends to disappear rather easily. Once again it's a shame that there are people like that around.<br /><br />On the plant side the first potatoes have burst through in leaf. Hopefully it won't be long before they have enough leaves to keep the weeds down. The tomatoes are struggling a bit but as I said, it has been a tad cold this week. The beans are OK but as ever they are a target for slugs and snails. Plant three beans to each pole - two for the slugs and one for yourself. It seems to work and if more than one survives it can be moved to a scene of a particuarly savage attack! Perhaps this drier weather will deter them a bit.<br /><br />The leeks which were kindly given to me are still upright and getting bigger so I'll look forward to having those with some boiled bacon in the autumn.<br /><br />My daughter's flower patch is thriving. I can see a few flowers but it looks like there are a lot of weeds in there. I'll be able to tell as they get bigger. Her strawberries are big and green with the first hint of red on one or two. Now is the time to cover them with netting to stop Mr and Mrs Blackbird having fresh ripe fruit for breakfast, dinner and tea! So they are under green netting and hopefully safe from hungry beaks.<br /><br />If this hot weather keeps going it won't be long before I'm watering again!Rookery69http://www.blogger.com/profile/06241771726288084267noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5093301439830728688.post-21983696455828099492007-05-21T20:10:00.000+01:002007-05-21T20:25:45.416+01:00Rubbish<span style="font-family: georgia;">Over the bank holiday weekend the council provided us with a skip into which we could place rubbish from our plots. I found an old iron bed, 10m of ventilation ducting, various parts of a car's suspension, lots of old rotten carpet and some rubbish sacks full of something smelly. It was a good gesture from the council but I was saddened to see an allotment holder drive in to the car park with a car full of domestic rubbish and promptly place it in the skip. By the afternoon the skip was full and plotholders trying to clear their plots no longer had anywhere to deposit their rubbish. You don't want to carry a bag full of rotting vegetation in your car. It's a shame the space was taken by bits of clean carpets and lampshades.</span><br style="font-family: georgia;"><br style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">It's similar to the people who drives miles into the countryside to dump a car load of rubbish when the council run recycling centre is half the distance away and would take all the stuff! I never have understood that.</span>Rookery69http://www.blogger.com/profile/06241771726288084267noreply@blogger.com0