The first of many raised beds

After I responded to an add on FreeCycle, I obtained some timber for making raised beds.  The wood was from a man who repaired sheds during the summer months.  A couple of pieces were a little rotten but once cut away the remaining wood was fine.  An hour or so later and few splinters I've built a couple of raised beds.  A little "rustic" perhaps but functional.  No more cutting the edges of the beds, just the grass!

Getting ahead!

I had a quick visit to the allotment today and planted 25 garlic cloves (Albigensian Wight), and sowed 70 broad beans (Aquadulce Claudia).


The garlic needs to be overwintered to produce bulbs and not enlarged cloves.  This is a large softneck variety and will be ready for harvest in June next year.


I specifically chose Aquadulce Claudia as these beans produce a better harvest if overwintered.  My Grandad always said the beans produce a better crop if they are sown in November.  I have also read they get less problems with black fly.