My old veg' patch went through many changes over the years. Here is an old drawing from 2007 showing all the varieties of the fruit trees, etc. Haddock's is on the extreme left, showing its original three section layout. I originally used the whole area of the little plot.
Over the years it changed into a more manageable four section plot, which made annual rotation much easier.
It stayed like this right through to when I was forced to abandon my growing. Something happened, and my plants began to die, I have a feeling that poisons were seeping through from a new building detritus dump on my 'builder' neighbour's side of the wall. Nothing would grow as before, and I was eventually forced to abandon it.
The same neighbour's dogs killed all my hens as well.
I really miss Haddock's. It provided all our vegetables, both fresh and preserved. It was highly productive, and I loved it. There was never a day, in either Summer or Winter, when there wasn't something to eat.
These days it is simply home to several fruit trees, lots of grape vines, and a few Artichoke plants. I am still thinking about what we'll do with the small area. My favourite current idea is to create a party area, with a summerhouse and BBQ; plus a few more Peach trees. I even planned to take some electricity down there for night-time lighting. But, somehow, I doubt if it'll ever happen.
I remember what an inspiration your posts about the wonderful vegetables were for me, I also dreamed of growing vegetables here, but it never happened here, part of it because the yard is open to the neighbors' dogs. And the cats from the whole neighborhood.
ReplyDeleteI had to eventually fence my garden all around, as I had the same problem. I even found a Deer sleeping in there one morning.
DeleteYou could use Pooky lights (outdoor lamps) down there. Much less hassle but not cheap!
ReplyDeleteSolar powered? Yes that would be a better idea. I'd need some GOOD ones.
DeleteI was also going to suggest solar powered lights but, we had some and they weren't brilliant ! You can also get battery lights for outside now. XXXX
DeleteYes those were the ones I was referring to.
DeleteI shall make enquiries.
DeleteWhat a charming pen drawing! There's even your guilty pen in the corner. How terrible that next door's dogs killed your hens. I see some musical notes to the top right - was that you whistling?
ReplyDeleteThat was me listening to music in the studio. The pen was for anonymity.
DeleteI always remember my Dad simplifying his garden as he got older to make things easier so, I expect you would have had to do similar but maybe not to that extent. I hate the fact that I can't do as much as I used to do in the garden now. How are all the fruit trees doing that you planted for each of your grandchildren ? XXXX
ReplyDeleteSadly two of them were planted in the orchard up at the barn, that has now been sold. The trees themselves are doing very well, but the fruit is no longer ours.
DeleteThe less likely it is to happen, the more grand the plans that can be dreamed up.
ReplyDeleteYou're probably right.
DeleteI suppose there are too many reasons now for not having a smaller plot elsewhere. A 90 day growing season is not much and you're not so agile. Did you grow anything in pots this summer?
ReplyDeleteI grew some Courgettes, and some Broccoli; neither of which were very successful. I need an extra month.
DeleteI would frame your drawing and proudly display it on a wall.
ReplyDeleteThat ,my dearest Cro, is my taste in art!
Dream a little dream for me... I love your planning your future area there.
Like we planned the restaurant that would be so much fun.
Daydreaming is a fruitful pursuit.
The drawing was simply to remind myself of the fruit varieties. Of course the house, etc, is very different now.
DeleteHow about a small , lovingly tried collection of family recipes.
ReplyDeleteOr have you started writing on your romantically inclined
book yet?
I've written two books following the seasons in France, from Jan to Dec. The first book included quite a few recipes. They're out of print now.
DeleteI am on the hunt...maybe they could be found in mysterious places.
Delete3 months out of the year does not provide much time to enjoy or develop the landscape.
ReplyDeleteFilling in the old garden space with something to detract from what it once was is a great idea.
Also I don't know how long we'll keep the house. It could become a burden.
DeleteI always enjoyed your news of Haddock's. It was good to see all the wonderful vegetables you grew.
ReplyDeleteNo, I don't think your house in France will ever be a burden, but the journey there and back might one day prove too much.