David Lifton
February’s warm spell has brought things on early...
I’m constantly checking the weather as we move into march. The influx of unseasonably warm weather we’ve had has brought us into spring-like conditions weeks before it was anticipated. While, as a gardener, I relish this warmer climate – I can’t help but feel its false lure – particularly where plants are concerned.
my apricot tree, now in a much more sheltered spot, is flowering.
Last year, the cold wiped all my blossom out. This year, though, there are very promising signs.
I’m seeing several of the flowers move on to the next stage of fruiting – whereby the petals fall but the flower bud remains with the pistil – the long column in the middle of the bloom – exposed.
Although the warmer weather and the more sheltered spot have contributed to the tree’s health this season – it is worth noting that a generous layer of garden waste compost has also been applied. Not only does this keep the potted roots warm, it also allows the tree to feed those flowers well – increasing my chances of getting fruit. If I’m successful, I can look forward to enjoying delicious apricots in late summer.
Back home at my flat, the first batch of seedlings are shooting up. I sowed broccoli into toilet rolls in early February. They’ve been quick to germinate – yet, the light in my flat is poor.
To counter this, I’ve invested in a £30 grow light. While it’s too early to say yet, I will report back on the lights once I have a better idea of their effectiveness.
I’m taking advantage of warm weather on the allotment by finishing my no-dig beds.
most of the work is done, but I still need to add another three inches of compost on top of my existing layers, taking the overall mulch up to six inches. This is because perennial weeds such as bindweed and couch grass are only properly held back when that level of manure or compost is applied.
Though the no-dig beds have taken a lot to get started – in future years, I will only need to top up an inch or so over each.
If healthy beds mean fuller, larger and healthier harvests – that’s a trade-off I’m willing to make.