Dandelions, vegetables and The Polytunnel (again!!)

Today Steve and Jacqui decided it was time to weed their overgrown vegetable patch and plant some squashes, kale, brussel sprouts and leeks. When Dawn and Mark appeared, we all worked on tightening the tension of the polytunnel plastic helped again by the wonderful Bruce and Mary Anne.

Whilst weeding said veggie path, we dug up loads of dandelions, used the leaves to make some tincture (only a litre, don't get too excited now!) and the roots were transplanted into the dandelion bed so we can have some order in the dandelion world, they have a whole 100ft bed all to themselves and are jolly lucky because not all of the herbs have their own 100ft bed (except the valerian and nettle).

Elderflowers Harvest and The Saga of the Polytunnel Part ???

After many days of strange and inclement weather, none of which were conducive to harvesting, we finally started harvesting elderflowers for tincture production. We only have 2 mature trees but have planted 5 more for following years. Luckily, our hedgerows and parks have plenty, as does our local nature reserve. Nettles next we think.

Jacqui has also been inspired by the flowers of different plants growing on the farm and after some communing and tuning in has been instructed to make some flower essences.

So far, she has made Dandelion, Valerian, Buttercup and the Ox Eye Daisies are enticing her to make some from them too, and so she will, next week, hopefully when the sun is out again.

Continuing on with the polytunnel saga......just when we thought we'd never get the darn plastic on, all of a sudden the wind dropped and we all rushed towards the tunnel to get going. A few extra bodies in the shape of Bruce and Mary Ann lent a hand and after much yo heave ho-ing we can announce the plastic is on....Ta Dah!!! (applause please). An odd but rewarding time to spend a saturday night! And now we need beery goodness to celebrate but sadly we had none except the odd swig from Bruce's cider (much appreciated!).