As I write in the cosy warmth of my garden shed, the last soft pattering of rain, drip from the surrounding trees onto the roof. Bird song from the robins and blackbirds interrupt my thoughts and remind me how grateful I am to have this snug little cabin to write. It is misty this morning and the temperature is still hanging below 10 degrees. We are in March, and I miss the sun. Gusty winds brought down several branches and I spent 2 days clearing debris, especially around the polytunnels and tool shed.
I had put down some black Permealay in the polytunnels last month, wanting to warm the soil so that I may get ahead with some early sowings. It seems to have done the trick and it’s always interesting to see what comes up from the thick layer of compost that I had put down before. Little seedlings of perennial flowers, tomatoes and cucumber have poked their delicate little heads out of the soil. I am tempted to start sowing, but I shall resist for a wee bit longer as it is still very early, and we could still get severe frosts which could affect the soil temperature under the covers.
The broad beans are a happy lot, which I check religiously, tying up their stretching strands to the stake as they reach for higher heights. The leeks and aubergines are still being babied in my shed. Next week, I shall acclimatise them to the glass house. Fingers crossed for more frequent sunny days. In the veggie garden, last year’s chard has really kicked off, devoid of insects and producing some nice healthy leaves. I shall keep them in a while longer, since they are doing so well, before I remove them to make room for another crop. Winter lettuce in the polytunnel has also seen rapid growth.
“Then my heart with pleasure fills
And dances with the daffodils…”
March is always marked by the daffodils for me. Their cheerful yellow petals, combines well with rings of crocuses and snow drops. Daffodils are said to symbolize friendship but also new beginnings. This spring flower was named after the vain hunter in Greek Mythology. Narcissus was so in love with his own reflection in the water, that he ultimately drowned in it. That’s why daffodils are always looking down a bit! Apparently, they are also known to deter moles…although this doesn’t seem to be the case here a PKG! However cute they be, they are clearly running rampant underneath our lawned areas!
This week, I shall be sowing summer savoury as a companion plant to the broad beans. Savoury improves the beans growth and flavour as well as deterring bean beetles. Its pleasing aroma has made it a culinary staple throughout Europe and is also used as an ingredient in essential oils. It has a hot, peppery flavour, with notes of marjoram, thyme, and mint. Fun fact – Ancient Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans considered summer savoury to be an aphrodisiac, and associated it with supernatural beings and lusty satyrs – and much later, the Druids used it as part of their rituals celebrating the fertility of the summer season!
I wish you all a most blessed month. Once again, remember to take time for reflection in the great outdoors. Whether it be fingering the baby softness of newly formed tree buds, dancing amongst the daffodils, or sitting out in the garden with a favourite cuppa, closing your eyes and listening to the sounds of Nature… may it bring you a sense of warmth, love, and inner tranquillity.
Annie