Lessons Learned

Last year was a bit of a write-off when it came to the veg growing but, in the spirit of continual improvement, I wondered what lessons could be learned. So here are my three top tips from last year's experiences:

1. Use nematode slug control. The warm start to the year, followed by almost continuous rain, caused an explosion in the slug and snail population. Not wishing to use slug pellets if atall possible, this resulted in most of what did grow to be almost instantly devoured before we had a chance to harvest it. Therefore, this year, I am definitely going to invest in some organic slug control in good time before the growing season kicks off.

2. Pickles. The onions were very dissapointing this year so, at the end of autumn, we gathered up the pathetic crop and, combined with a jar of vinegar and a few choice spices, produced some cracking pickled onions that were perfect with Boxing Day lunch. We also pickled the betroot and used most of the courgettes in an excellent recipe that we discovered a couple of years ago. This year then we'll be looking for more recipes and stocking up on pickle jars.

The Fruits of Our Labours

3. Plant garlic early. We grew a small amount of garlic and it was absolutely delicious and left us wishing we had planted more. However, we didn't get it into the ground until spring so the resulting bulbs were a little on the small side. This season we already have three different variaties in the ground and the first is already up and doing well.