Ravendale House

Being at school in the 1960’s I was taught ‘domestic science’ by the feisty and fiery Miss Barbara Hirst, who drilled into me that peas, beans and lentils are pulse vegetables, a fact I will never, ever forget. However, today I want to talk about peas, beans and wind, a bi-product of lentils.

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We love tomatoes and grow lots every year, and this year is no exception. We grow the plants from seed and germination is not usually a problem. In fact they are normally trouble free, but this year has been a bit different.

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It’s still probably a bit early to do this, but today I’ve been counting the cost of the harsh winter.

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I know I’ve been a bit absent recently, that’s because I’m helping Peter build a new website. But don’t think I haven’t been busy gardening too. (more…)

Today I did some proper gardening, despite my bad knee.

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I went out looking for snowdrops a few days ago, but not a sign. Then this morning I notice one single snowdrop flowering by the back door. I know one snowdrop doesn’t make a Spring, but at least it makes you feel like we’re going in the right direction at last.

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So there we are, I’ve said it. 2010 is officially my worst gardening year ever.

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Today I cleared the last of the tomatoes out of the conservatory and brushed it out ready for it’s annual clean with Jeyes fluid.

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I decided to dig up my white onions today. The tops were dead or dying, so it seemed like the right time. What a disappointment.

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Today I dug up about half of the first of my potato beds, Aron Pilot. Results were a bit variable in size, but in total I got 15lbs 12oz, which isn’t bad for a start.

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