January 2009 Update
Our first trips down the allotment in 2009 was a bit of a clear-up operation, but well worth the effort in getting the place spick and span.
We were even able to enjoy one of the most pleasant sights of the new year - the emergance of our snow drops, bringing with it a little promise of the season ahead.
The pest attacks continue however, with numerous mole hils needing to be brushed away and our remaining purple sprouting broccoli plants having been ravaged to the point of no return.
We removed the remains of the decimated brassica's and cleared the soil slightly, then we were able to think of adding some new crops.
Japanese overwintering onions and garlic should both give us a nice crop in early summer and once again beging the process of cultivation on our plot. Labelled and planted neatly in thier permanent bed we look forward to them raising their heads soon (not too soon that we have not yet completed our 2009 rabbit proofing however).
We also re-located the rhubarb, who didnt really need to be in the fruit cage and sits well in its new bed next to the herb patch, where it is free to sprawl to its hearts content. The herb patch itself got a bit of attention too, with a thorough weeding and some edging it should perk up nicely come springtime.
Green Tip of the Month:Waterbutts are always worth investing in and can be bought cheaply. Easily attached to the guttering of a your home, shed, lean-to or greenhouse they will give you an ample source of rainwater throughout the year. Requiring little maintenance, they'll mean you won't even have to consider touching your hosepipe in the drier months.
January Checklist
- Gather Manure/compost & other soil nourishing resources.
- Remove old wood from fruit species/bushes such as raspberry's.
- Clear ground of old/spoiled crops & add to the compost heap.
- Plan the rotation & location of your veg varieties or seed beds.
- Begin clearing out/tidying storage areas and sheds.
- Plant overwintering onions & garlic by the end of the month, to ensure they get an ample period of cold before springtime.