Hard day's work

Well not quite a whole day - about three and a half hours, which was enough giving the fragility of my back.

Digging was not an option - not because I wasn't up to it - but the ground is still concrete (see the photo left - the plant pot is a 3.5" one). There is no moisture in the soil, despite the recent rain.

I did however get a few jobs done. Mainly making a start on clearing of the strawberry patch. This was planted about six years ago and the crop has been poor for the last couple of years. The plants originated from three "Marshmellow" plants that I got for a £1 and they had now come to the end of their natural life, probably not helped by a lack of weeding on my part.

But half of the patch is now cleared ready for digging and a bit of manure - if I can find some.

The rest of the time was taken up with housekeeping, sweeping my little patio, cutting back the hedge and collecting seed.

I also dug up a few leeks - way too early I know - they are much better after a good frost, but with over 240 planted I am sure we will have them to spare.

And, providing the nights are not too cold, we should be eating French Beans next week.