This time of the year is definitely a bittersweet feeling as we move closer to the end of the growing year and start to move into Autumn.
We look forward to winding down in the garden as not only do the plants slow down in readiness for the coming winter slumber but so do the weeds and grass that take a fair bit of our time during the summer months.
We have finished most of the harvesting from our summer crops and we are feasting on many different fruits and vegetables that have been nurtured and cared for in previous months. Top of the list is the fabulous Blueberry pies Paul has made, along with fruit crumbles. Another sure-fire winner is the crop of Corn Cobs we got from our limited planting and they will be used down into the Christmas period and maybe even beyond.
View over the garden area
From the above photo you can see that although the main summer harvest is over, that does not mean we shut down for the Autumn and Winter months, Oh no! What you are seeing here is mainly the winter vegetable crops putting on their final growth before the temperatures drop to send the plants to sleep.
Loraine has made sure we have ample crops to see us through the winter with Savoy and White cabbage, Brussel Sprouts, Swedes (the size of footballs), Parsnips waiting for the first frosts to give them that lovely sweetness that we all love, same for the Brussel Sprouts too.
We have crops of Carrots galore, Leeks, Different Kales, Spinach, Various Broccoli, and of course our favorite, the Onions. We have just planted the next Summers Onions (150 approx), Spring Cabbages too are in and will put on a spurt before the cold hits.
Leeks in the foreground and carrots at the top end. Newly planted onions at the front of the picture.
Next year will be even more exciting as we shall be able to crop the Asparagus for the first time, our Rhubarb should produce a good crop, our fruit field is maturing and will provide more from that area too.
Although some of the fruit trees provided a few fruits, they did not come too much, but next year we should get a small crop from those which will boost our yearly crops.
Great News! Whilst out in the gardens, we came across 3, yes 3, baby Hedgehogs. They were all snuffling around looking for food and they were out during the daylight hours.
As they are so small and winter is looming, we are trying to feed them up a little with cat food so they will not be too small when the weather turns. We do not know where they are living during the day but they seem to come out at different times so it is difficult to feed them as there is the competition of the local cats, foxes, and birds to contend with.
Baby hedgehog feasting on cat food.
We shall endeavor to keep them going during the winter months if they are around the gardens and if there is anything to report on we shall let you know.
Bye for now……..