Allotment weeds, seeds and sprouting broccoli

Saturday morning was lovely and sunny so we spent a fair bit of time on the allotment. We emptied one of the compost heaps and turned the second one. As we’ve got five compost heaps altogether we’re getting plenty of practice at this.

The Digger planted some seeds:

• Beetroot - “Detroit 6 Rubidus” (red roots) and “Chioggia” (pink roots with flesh that is white with pink rings)
• Parsnip - “White Gem” and “Galdiator F1″

While he was doing that I weeded the garlic “Solent White” which is doing very well.

The ground wasn’t particularly dry so I hand weeded rather than using the hoe. While I was down on my knees I suddenly thought about garden weeds. How I pull out weeds without really looking at them. I recognised the dandelion but I wasn’t sure what the others were, so I took pictures of the ones in my garlic patch. When I got home I looked them up in my book of wild flowers. They were Dandelion, Dead Nettle, Speedwell and White Briony (Bryonia diocia). I’m almost inspired to create a photo record of allotment weeds.

The White Bryony is new to me. It’s a member of the cucumber family. The roots can be huge and the very long stems climb with the aid of tendrils. The Digger dug up enormous roots earlier in the year, showing how well his name suits him. My final allotment job was picking some sprouting broccoli which has flourished this year. Stir fried with a little butter, soy sauce and garlic it was wonderful.