I have to say the raised beds were great in theory and planned
(well the planting out of them at least). And would probably would have worked
well in smaller area, but the size of these beds not only meant we needed to
trample all over them to reach other parts or other beds. But it became
impossible to hoe or strim them and weeding the paths became an extra task that
we would occasionally get around too.
Even in the rain, we finished the bed by fencing it off and
fitting the gate- to make our access easy- lesson learned from last time. The
fencing is mostly to keep the chickens off our seeds/seedlings, though for that
afternoon we allowed them to pillage- as there were substantial grubs that were
not wanted! And they would turn and break up the soil that bit more.
We did leave the ‘pumpkin patch’ (though downsized) was left
outside the fenced section- as it is well established (feeding the ‘Cub’ well)
and we wanted to keep it from taking over.
And the other vines have been placed in rows of trellises- low
to begin with. However I do have potential plans to add to them and create
arches or over head trellising if necessary. Hopefully they will make an
attractive feature, as well as a practical means of harvesting.
So prepped and ready for this year’s seedlings and seeds, this
week they went in.
Tomatoes
Sugar snap peas
Cucumber
Eggplant
Capscicum (Peppers)
Zucchini (Courgette)- seeds only at this stage
Beetroot
Carrots (seeds again)
Spring onions
Radishes
Lettuce
Asian veg
Fennel
Spinach
Strawberries
Still have a few more seeds to go in gradually. And a few more herbs for the herb patch and shrubs for the fenceline (rosellas and a curry leaf tree).
We have still opted for companion planting; planting those close
together that are mutually beneficial (and avoiding those that don’t). But we
have done so in rows, allowing space to hoe (and access). We have also planted
in sections, with successive crops; planning for continued growth and hopefully
consistent supply; as opposed to gut and nothing.
The timing of these preparations seems especially apt this year.
Whilst the preparing of garden beds are often synonymous of the early months
for many in the northern hemisphere. New beginnings and therefore new life is often
symbolic of spring in many cultures, here (in tropical Queensland) the most
bountiful growing/ planting season is autumn and winter. (So yes we are a
little late!)
However for us (me in particular) this year’s clearing out and
fresh start or new beginning, to our sad and neglected veg patch (especially of
late with our newest addition and the unbearable tropical heat) had many
motivations and was especially emotional.
For one, our ‘Cub’. Although we have always been conscious about the source of our food and the pride in producing a meal for someone (or yourself) made from your produce. But having a young child you become really conscientious about what they consume; wanting to give them the best you can.
Gardening with a baby does raise its own challenges- especially
here as we are constantly aware of her exposure to the sun (and heat). So the
cooler, damper conditions and an unusually long morning nap were gratefully
appreciated. Although she did ‘help out’ for some of it, as we want her to grow
up with the knowledge and an appreciation of where food comes from and what is
involved.
I am also excited to get a few fast flourishing seedlings in to kick start our produce, as we have visitors coming in 2 months, so perfect timing! And I can not wait to get in the garden with my nephew.
I am also excited to get a few fast flourishing seedlings in to kick start our produce, as we have visitors coming in 2 months, so perfect timing! And I can not wait to get in the garden with my nephew.
The other reason being more retrospective and reflective. Many
know that for myself, my grandfather has been a major influence; especially in
terms of undertaking this lifestyle. Most of my fondest childhood memories are
spending time with my grandparents at their home and their massive garden; transplanting
seedlings into grow bags each year and carrying them to the greenhouse. To this
day I still do not understand why we didn’t carry the bag there then transplant
them! And I still love the smell of tomato plants, despite not actually liking
the raw fruit.
Picking and washing beans for Sunday dinner, or helping him pick
elderflowers and elderberries from their enormous tree; so he could make wine
each year.
I guess his pride in the results of a ‘good days work’ and in
providing for his loved ones not only rubbed off on me. But was infectious and
was instilled into me. I beamed with pride when I helped him as a child, and I
beam when I continue this with our place now. So for me this fresh start for
our patch, and my (our) renewed commitment to our veg patch and providing for
our loved ones (family) is an ode to him. And a means for me to feel close
(following his passing earlier this year)
So be prepared for many veg updates and brags in the coming
future.