The Gardening (including Allotment) section

At the bottom of the allotment, there have been some major changes.

Over the last few years the old Raspberry canes were thinned out progressively, until finally removed. Two new beds were made at the top of the allotment, so as the new ones starting bearing fruit the old ones were removed. Now the bed contains Jerusalem Artichokes (far end of bottom bed against wall), new currant and berry bushes. This bottom bed will be completed over time as older items finish.

The new currant bushes are a new Blackcurrant and Redcurrant establishing themselves whilst the old ones are still producing, but nearing the end of their useful life. These bushes are situated in the far end of the red chippings area of the bottom bed by the wall.Two new berry bushes of a Loganberry and Blackberry are establishing themselves, at the near end of the red chippings area of the same bed.

The nearest raised bed (marked 'ONE') is this years Potatoes, whilst the far beds (marked 'TWELVE' and 'THIRTEEN') contain Onions and Shallots.

Here again we can see part of the Potato crop bed, with next two beds up containing various seeds (Carrots, Parsnips, Beetroot etc.).

Above the first grass cross path we have one of the Strawberry beds, (the second got moved last year to furthr back and across). Beyond that bed is this years various French and Runner beans.

The top bed before the cold frames is prepared for Courgettes and Squashes.

Behind the cold frames are two green(ish) water butts, and behind these is the orangey treated frames for the two new Raspberry beds.

Looking up the other side of the allotment, we can see the Onion and Shallots beds.

Behind these is the fruit trees and currant bushes, note the very exuburant Rhubarb which has supplied many crops already this year.

The bed behind the fruit bed is prepared for mini-cucumbers, already has some Red Mustard Lettuce (Winter Lettuce) in and shortly will have some Rocket as well.

Beyond that is the second Strawberry bed, then onto cold frames and Raspberry beds.