Julian is in charge of the kitchen garden. We are virtually self sufficient in vegetables for about four months of the year. We grow masses of lettuce and salad leaves along with the other usual vegetables. Brassicas are difficult as the ground is infested with club root. But we have gleaned as much information as possible from the internet and are trying brussel sprouts once again.
Pumpkins
We always grow Crown Prince pumpkins. They have lovely blue tinged skins and the flesh is a wonderful intense orange. They also keep exceedingly well in a frost free environment. In fact, we have kept them until the following May.
Everything Labelled
The kitchen garden is divided by brick paths. Where they cross are four tall columnar apples trees. All the rows are labelled with large white wooden markers with black writing. The rows are straight and weed free! Sadly we have to surround it all with chicken wire to keep out the rabbits.
Chicory and Chard
Chard Bright Lights with chicory in front provide a patch of colour in the autumn. The chard keeps its colour even when cooked.
The orchard was planted soon after we came here in 1963. The previous trees had all been killed in the hard winter of '62 by animals feeding on their bark. We planted three rows of three which includes one damson tree. The rest are apples including James Grieve, Laxton's Superb, Sturmer Pippin and a Cox's Orange Pippin.
Grass squares
The grass under the trees is allowed to grow long and cut in August and October. I am encouraging wild flowers and have planted Camassia bulbs to increase the range.
