Fruit trees blossom

Victoria plum

Pear

The orchard is looking lovely this spring. Hopefully they have settled in well and there may be some fruit this year.

View across the plot

A quick look across the plot. Actually looking like a loved for allotment,albeit still a little sparse but at least weeds seem a little more under control compared to last year and there is some semblance of a structure and plan. Onwards and upwards to a new season.

Digging in rye grass

The rye grass didn't get as tall as I was expecting and germination has been patchy. That said, the weeds in the area were kept to a minimum. After watching Monty Don dig in his on Gardeners World last week, I thought I may as well give it a go. Not relishing the thought as all advice said it would be difficult, I began and it was fine. In fact I am pleased with the result and composition of the soil structure is now much better. This bed had potatoes last year and I definitely think, although patchy the rye grass has done a good job so I will use again.

After 3hours digging, the bed was turned over and I have left it to the forecasted rains to start to break down.

Clear footpath edge

Have never really done anything with this area, to be honest a bit stumped at what to do. The compost bins need to have a clear area around them so I have always considered it a working area, then the shed blew down so it has kind of been left.

This year I have decided to embrace the wildness and mound pumpkins on the area, grow sunflowers and just use it for mini beds and general extras.

However, I have now bought some willow rods so they will have to go somewhere, maybe here. In an attempt to make it a little more loved, I have started to edge a pathway. Expecting the weekend rain I did what I could and will have to finish this week.

New mini beds

Planning some mini beds to grow specific veges and a mix of annual flowers, to add some interest.

Have started to make the beds but ground has never really been cultivated here so plenty of weds and very compacted from when the water pipe was laid and the tractor dumped all the sil back on top.

As rain was planned I wanted to get them started even though the mounds look a bit strange at the minute.

Wild areas

Last years wildflower meadow is still looking ok, so can only hope that all the seeds have set and this year will be more impressive. Have plans to add in a few more pot grown flowers to boost the meadow. Considering how to keep it wild yet kind of fence it in in some way. Perhaps looking to use some willow withies or a bit of structured height to keep the wild and natural feel.

The othe roast of the bed is going to be mini beds and pumpkin mounds.

Rhubarb rhubarb

Rhubarb is starting to get going. This will be the first full year so let's hope it has settled in well.

Live the bulbous red shape before it unfurls, can't remember which variety is which though, sure they will both be scummy in a crumble!