The weather here continues to be warm and dry. Daytime temperatures range from 16C to 26C. We've had some rain but not enough to impact the drought situation so I continue to recycle as much grey water as possible. It's tough. I spent today feeding and watering all the plants using a watering can, writing... Continue Reading →
Six on Saturday: Autumn Vegetables
The weather over the last week continues to be reasonably hot, achieving temperatures of around 25C but still no rain. I am recycling water and reusing as much as I physically can. aka storing all the pool backwash, water from shower, dehumidifiers, collecting water in bowls etc. etc. Rant warning: While out for a walk... Continue Reading →
Growing Autumn Courgettes (Zucchini), Tomatoes and Cucumber Experiment – September
With the escalating cost of fruit and vegetables one month ago I decided to experiment and grow Courgettes (Zucchini), tomatoes and cucumbers throughout the winter, or at least until Autumn turns to winter in November. Who knows, maybe the weather will be kind and they will continue to grow into January and February - we... Continue Reading →
Autumn Courgettes (Zucchini), Tomatoes and Cucumber Experiment
With the escalating price of food, especially fresh fruit and vegetables, I decided to get creative, experiment and attempt to grow some courgettes, plum tomatoes and cucumber through the autumn and winter months - a first! Okay, according to the seed packets I am out of time to plant seeds so I won't hold my... Continue Reading →
Garden Diary: Vegetable Roundup – May (part 1)
My Six this Saturday this week has proved quite a challenge. I had so much to write about but so little time. This morning we went to a fellow gardeners for a coffee, catch-up and a tour around his garden. It is amazing. So many projects and raised beds, covers, sheds, nooks and crannies. Gnome... Continue Reading →
Garden Diary: April Vegetables (part 2)
My choices for Six on Saturday this week, focus once again on vegetables. I believe the hours spent nurturing all these plants help to keep me sane in the light of the daily challenges we face with COVID. Nature is a great healer and brings peace in these times of stress. Growing Leeks and Garlic... Continue Reading →
Garden Diary: Why Grow Nabo?
Growing Nabo in a Container Providing it doesn't look up at me from the plate, I try to keep an open mind when it comes to trying new food. However, Nabo is the most disgusting vegetable we have EVER tasted. When I ordered these seeds from a Portuguese seed company it was definitely one of... Continue Reading →
Garden Diary: Let’s Focus on Vegetables and Herbs
My Six on Saturday garden diary this week focuses on vegetables and herbs. This year I've grown the majority of plants from seed with a mixed degree of success and failure. The ants stole most of the seeds I planted directly in the ground and the ones that did survive in the cold frame, the... Continue Reading →
Six on Saturday: Seedlings and Saharan Dust and Gusts
Wow, what a week! I've been gardening in a mask! It's the first time we've been advised of 'poor quality' air alerts. Not only did we enjoy the effect of the Saharan dust from Africa we were also subjected to our own local manmade dust storms. 'They' whoever 'they' maybe, are clearing all the local... Continue Reading →
Six On Saturday: Staying One Step Ahead
It's been another busy and challenging week in the garden. We can't go anywhere, do anything or see anyone so the bugs, birds and plants have the pleasure of our undivided attention. 1. Beetroot Blues Only two seeds of the Hullahup beetroot I planted on Feb 22nd have finally germinated Over a month of twice... Continue Reading →