This weekend

We've had yet another busy weekend here on plot 45. Mark has been struck down with the dreaded man flu so being a man down it was left to me to keep things ticking over, fitting in a morning of dancing runs, a 30th birthday party and getting ready for the start of the summer holidays. With all this going on I managed to grab a couple of visits to the plot. 

During my visits I gave the raised beds a quick going over and planted the two trays of lettuce that have been sat on the patio table. Winning a little bit back of the patio table each visit.

Mark decided last week to start clearing the weeds from the back of the large planting area so I started at the flower bed at the front. This weekend I finished clearing the small patch of dock leaves at the back of bed. 

Looking good wouldn't you agree?

Went to inspect my beer trap to find it empty except sludgy beer and a half eaten pumpkin plant. :-( 

Obviously don't like the Morrisons cheap brand. Will try Carlsberg next time ;-)

 

I also found a large patch of nettles that had made their way on to the plot from under next doors concrete pad. 

Half filled the metal bin with the roots and left the leaves to cook in the sun. After speaking to my Uncle  Brian I'm going to try using the nettles to make my own organic fertilizer. Will add the nettle leaves in the morning once the sting has gone out of them. Apparently gives off an obnoxious smell but does wonders. Will keep you posted.

One last organic experiment started this weekend was a bit of a long shot. Whilst clearing the algae out of the water tank I was debating what to do with it when I had an epiphany. As it was a hot day and the flowers I had disturbed weeding were struggling, why not use the spongy algae to help keep moisture in the soil then when dried out will rot down adding nutrients to feed the plants. As I have identical plants on both sides of the flowerbed I have left the right side as it is.

I will compare the two sides as the season goes on.

To finish the weekend I used our beetroot picked the other day and some of our onions to make this delicious beetroot and goats cheese tart. Served with rocket salad and a drizzle of balsamic glaze the finish. Very tasty but next time think will add some chopped walnuts and crumble the goats cheese. :-)