 |
This is what the plot that has become our vegetable
garden looked like when we started working on it. It was an overgrown
rubble heap! |
 |
After two years we had built terraced gardens and
planted a few fruit trees. For several years we got good crops of
vegetables - particularly potatoes. We did not do so well with the
carrots. However, it was a constant fight against the weeds - mainly
nettles. Within a few weeks the whole garden could be knee deep in
nettles. Despite constant digging and pulling out roots we could not
win! |
 |
Eventually we covered the whole patch with a membraine.
It allowed water but not light to pass through. After about twelve
months we thought we might stand a chance again. This time we decided
to go for raised beds and to keep the membraine as blankets. only
uncovering that part of the garden we wanted to plant. |
 |
We built three raised beds each 16 feet by 4 feet
separated by gravel paths. Of course we put strips of membrane under
the gravel to stop weeds growing through. |
 |
We planted two of the beds and left the third covered
over. We were very successful growing peas, broad beans, raddishes,
lettuce, and sweet corn. We did not attempt potatoes.
As of 2005 there are currently 4 raised beds:
- The latest one is turning into a herb and cane-fruit bed.
- The other three are rotated with beans, peas, potatoes and
other root crops.
|
