Down on the Allotment

Matron grows vegetables and fruit in a Hampshire garden. I've been growing veggies since I was knee high to a grasshopper. Some traditional varieties and old favourites as well as new ideas. I share my garden with my allotment assistant Daisy the Labrador. On Twitter as @MatronsVeggies

Thursday, June 07, 2012

Good Genes

This Paton Twins Giant Pumpkin only germinated a couple of days ago. Yet the two seed leaves are already 5" across.  Just goes to show the importance of good genetics. The roots are already coming out of the bottom of the flower pot.  Now all I need is a couple of sunny days to get it hardened off before planting outside.  Where is the sunshine?

Tuesday, June 05, 2012

The Giant Awakes...

Finally I have germination of my Paton Twins giant pumpkin!  I planted the first of two very expensive seeds on 30th April and nothing at all has happened, it failed to germinate.  Just a few days ago I planted the second seed and just one day after germinating the seed leaves are about 3 inches across!
I have been preparing a mound on which to plant it.  The contents of a compost bin, chicken manure, composted grass clippings and well rotted horse manure.  This lovely pile has been sitting for weeks waiting for lift off.  Stand by!

Sunday, June 03, 2012

Fruits of Labour

 An eventful day yesterday, Leo won a 2nd place in our Jubilee street party. Here he is with his Pearly King costume. He managed to keep the hat on for the whole time, with the aid of some strong elastic under his chin and pieces of chicken on his nose!
 Meanwhile thing are starting to happen. These Gooseberries are coming along nicely.
 Broad Beans are further along than I had anticipated. It must be all this rain!
 There is even a sign of an outdoor strawberry changing colour.
And the first tomato!! Summer must be right around the corner.

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