Time to sow beans:
Maximum temp only 17 C today so it doesn't feel like summer. However, I planted 12 assorted bean seeds in half toilet roll tubes for later planting out in one third of my plot after I have prepared the soil. The remaining 2/3 of the plot contains two well-spaced tomato plants on frames. I will gradually introduce their companion plants, marigolds, spring onions, parsley, lettuce and carrots. Today I put some heat-hardy lettuce seeds in the fridge to chill in preparation for next Friday's garden session.
Soil Prep:
I am deliberately not cramming my plot or mulching early this year because I need to renovate the soil. I will dig down about 30 cm and remove invading roots from the fruit trees in the adjacent food forest. I am working my way around the perimeter of the plot removing roots and adding sheep manure and compost as I progress.
Last chance to plant Carrots before the hot weather:
On Friday I sifted the soil in one such prepared section and planted carrots. I placed a board over the top to keep the soil moist for a week as I can't water every day. I helped Leyla who attends the English classes in the house use this carrot planting method the previous Friday and Pat removed the board after a week but watered daily and ten days later Leyla's carrots were up and growing; very satisfying for a beginner gardener - but where is Leyla? She hasn't been seen at the garden since we planted the carrot seed.
