Hmm, well in our garden the answer to that question all depends on where you stand. I could place you in front of the bog garden and pond, for example.
That might give the impression of a relatively well-tended space. But you would only have to turn through 90 degrees to see this.
Hedge clippings waiting to be disposed of, a flowerbed so full it is amazing everything doesn’t collapse from strangulation.
It’s a similar story, but multiplied to the power of ten, down on the allotment. On the one hand I am ridiculously excited about the number of beans we have been able to plant, and I particularly like having enough room for a ridge support, which makes me feel like a proper veg grower.
On the other hand – this confusion of fruit bushes, comfrey and waist-high grass is more typical of the plot as a whole.
There have been times this month when I have wondered whether we will ever get on top of everything. Slugs ate all our beetroot and Brussels sprout seedlings. Birds took the first strawberries.
As an allotment newbie I’m learning the importance of perseverance. I’ve put nets on the strawberries and bought some new Brussels sprouts plants – which will also be netted. I’ve taken an old strimmer to be overhauled. It feels like a long slog, getting this plot under control, but every day there are encouragements to spur us on.
I’m linking up with Soulemama today: I love the idea of gardeners all over the world sharing their plots. What’s more, sometimes Amanda posts a garden cocktail recipe. I’m not normally a great cocktail fan, but she had me at the Rhubarb Collins – another great incentive to persevere with growing.
That garden growth spurt has come a bit later this year I think. Once it starts, blink and you’re at risk of being totally overwhelmed, but if you can catch in time, those weeds are quite easy to get out – we managed last night to do it between us in around 45 mins.
Alas our strawberries are nearly finished already; and like you we lost lots of brassica seedlings abd multiple plantings of beans to slugs and snails.
Never a dull moment.
Thank you! That is quite reassuring! I’m amazed your strawberries are nearly finished – I think we are only about 150 miles north of you but it really makes a difference in growing terms.
Just take your time. It takes a while to get everything done.
That’s encouraging – thank you!
There will be success along the way I’m sure.