sow far, sow good

winter is nearly at it's end, thank goodness, it's been a tough one for many people this year, and the hardest going for a long time.

first calender day of spring has officially sprung, and the light is coming earlier, and staying longer, each day.

here are some up to date photos, making the most of glorious spring sunshine.

lemon balm and spring planting peas

curry plant, grape cutting, last year's jalapeno chillis

Chicken Run!

lavender, grown heaps from small cutting; new tyre paths with solar lamps

tyre path, jade plant and borage

avocadoes, grown from stone, grown heaps in sunny sheltered spot

rosemary, for remembrance, grown from seedling

nasturtium cuttings, grown heaps and well established

It's coming up to the end of my second full year here, as I moved in at the start of spring. I have learned a lot, about all sorts of things, and feel, finally, like the garden is coming together a bit, and even getting ahead - well, soon anyway.

Having said that, even for a still-in-development project, this little patch of heaven has produced a lot of food! and still is. It's good, fresh, spray- and chemical-free food, which has been blessed by the natural rain and all day sun. It has survived gales, hails, frosts and invasions of next-door's chickens (not always helpful); it's cheerful, colourful, spicy and packed with love.

Growing one's own food makes so much sense, even if it's just a box of lettuce or cress on your kitchen windowsill. Having living things to look after, protect and defend, serve and work in harmony with, is incredibly good for the soul, and of course the body too, although it is also a lot of hard labour, so be prepared!

I am looking forward to my third year here, I hope to build some shelter and some structures which capture as much natural energy as I can. I am also looking forward to applying my learnings, and seeing how much more efficient and productive the garden becomes.

happy gardening

lou