2025 has seen a difficult summer in the Kitchen Garden due to the hot and dry weather, and a lot of watering has been required. Some plants have done well without needing too much attention, such as the courgettes, carrots, beetroot, runner beans, and borlotti beans. Others have just not managed to get enough water; disappointingly, these have included peas and broad beans, which quickly dried up. Others seemed to be doing well but have not produced a satisfactory crop, such as potatoes, leeks, and broccoli. Kale and Purple Sprouting Broccoli have grown too quickly, but hopefully will last into the winter as they are supposed to do, along with Brussels sprouts.
There was a wonderful fruit crop, and we were able to invite the public to come and harvest blackcurrants and redcurrants. There were plenty of strawberries at the gate, and the raspberries are still producing. The gooseberries were eaten by the birds again in one full swoop. We aim to get the bushes covered for next year.
Isla planted a number of different varieties of potatoes. Some did not like the lack of water but ‘Kara’, which are currently being harvested, are a good size. She will plant less volume next year and try other varieties.
In the polytunnel Paul and Annie have been methodical in growing a manageable crop of tomatoes and peppers with carrots in between. Unfortunately the planned sprinkler system did not get installed for the season so a lot of hand watering has been required. The apricot tree fruited wonderfully but it has seen its last summer indoors as it is becoming out of control. It will be given a new home in the VG garden within the shelter and warmth of the wall.
The raised beds previously used for dye plants have been used for vegetables, cared for by Mandy who has also grown squash in one of the old compost heaps.
Paul and Annie are on a mission to improve the composting system with Smudge making new compost beds. Expect to see instructions as to what goes where and our own healthy compost for the garden next year. Any donations of horse manure would be appreciated.
Green manure has been sown to act as a fertiliser and a mulch over winter. The most effective seems to be mustard seeds hence the bright green beds..
We have been pleased to be able to supply ‘Empty Kitchens Full Hearts’, a charitable kitchen in Granton, with produce. Thank you to Isla and others who have taken it along.
Thanks also to all the volunteers who have helped us over the summer. I hope you have enjoyed the produce, which you are all very welcome to sample.
– Julia