Weeding the Plot on 10/06/2010 is not an arduous task, because the Plot has not gotten out of control. Weeds will infiltrate if the Plot is subject to neglect, but as it is a clearly defined area of 270cms x 470cms it is currently fairly easy to keep weeds under control. Pigeons who are invading the Plot are a different matter, if only they would eat the weeds and not the tasty vegetable seedlings they prefer! The pigeons continue to attack the Brassicas and anything else that appeals to them. Ella Montt has never seen a pigeon anywhere near the Plot, but has been told that pigeons are at large and arrive in flocks. A barricade of netting could be the answer to block access, but that would restrict other more welcome visitors to the Plot. A pigeon eviction device needs to be constructed.
Torrential rain was in the forecast for the following day, so water was not applied to the Plot. However the rain did not arrive the next day as predicted. (At the time of writing 13/06/2010 rain seems likely).
Peas Meteor and Broadbeans Supersimonia were harvested:
Pea harvest = 42 pods = 4oz = 120grams
Peas shelled = 2oz = 60grams
Broadbean Harvest = 23 pods = 1lb 4oz = 560grams
Broadbeans shelled = 6oz = 160grams
Borage Flowers have started to bloom as part of the Plot, their role is companion planting, but the plant can be used for its medicinal and culinary qualities. The five pointed star shaped flowers contain an alien science fiction-like beauty. Bees visit the bowed flower heads. The plants stems are hairy and uncurl as the flower buds emerge.
Defiant Purple Sprouting seedlings are boldly challenging the pigeons. How brave they are! And how will their survival be? The pigeons can attack at any time and will strip much larger plants. The young Leeks are growing with stealth; their growth is visible in one week. The largest Sunflower is growing in strength hopefully it will reach the sky. The Squash plants seem reluctant as yet to reach out in all directions and travel across the soil. The ‘gone to seed’ summer Spinach will need to be extracted from the Plot.
At this time Ella Montt has not achieved self-sufficiency through cultivation of the Allotment Plot. If Ella Montt’s intention was that the vegetables growing on the Plot would support her nutritional requirements then this must be what is known as the ‘Hungry Gap’, which relies on external support for food sources. A traditional Allotment Plot should be about 10 rods squared and is supposed to feed a family of four all year round. Based on this measurement one individual would require 2.5 rods squared to support oneself. If one rod is 5.03m then the Allotment Plot, should measure 12.58m squared in order to achieve self-sufficiency.
