Roger

This afternoon, Roger, one of my neighbouring plot-holders, will be laid to rest. I think I could safely say that he was not the easiest of men to get on with but, after realising I wasn't quite the novice he may have first taken me for, I have a sneaking suspicion that, eventually, it is possible I had gained his approval, as I cleared my plot, planted up, and began harvesting the first crops. I'm not sure he could quite get to grips with my girlie shed, with its lino floor, curtains, and herb poster but then, when I first took on this plot I was the only femail plotholder in the vicinity. Now, of course, the girls are taking over 'the bottom of the hill'. Who will be his successor? We will have to wait and see - maybe another female!



As the weeds continue to flourish in this wet and warm weather, so do the vegetables, and each evening we are enjoying freshly picked peas, broad beans (second sowing), courgettes, lettuces and (so far) perfect, insect free cabbages (thanks to the fine netting). I'm particularly pleased with the climbing peas which, so far, have escaped the ravages of the pigeons, but I'm sure they'll soon work out how to cling on to the wigwams. The runner beans have reached the top of their wigwams, with the 'St George' in full flower, and the later sown French beans are now on their way. The sweetcorn is growing taller by the day. As for the sweetpeas - I can't pick them fast enough. I'm very impressed with the pastel shades and the wonderful perfume. I've been handing them out to friends and neighbours.



My flower border at the front of the plot is beginning to take shape. I think I've managed to eradicate all the orange and red self-seeders from last year, in order to achieve a rather understated green and white effect, with the lime green nicotiana, dill, white gladioli (yet to flower). Deep red and blue morning glories are adding a splash of colour, and eventually there will be purple/blue/pink tones from the verbena and agastache when they flower. Ornamental gourds, trained up hazel wigwams, will add a bit of height and a little extra colour, once they are fruiting. I still have a plateful of last year's gourds in the middle of my dining table.



We have had our first cucumber, and it looks as if there will be plenty more to come. The greenhouse is really filling up with foliage (and flowers) and the first tomatoes are their way. My new project, the Sarah Raven chrysanths, newly potted up, are making good progress too.



Back to earth with a bump - Mike has his first meeting with the neuro surgeon at the beginning of the week. Then we will know what the future holds, and the next plan of action.