First harvest - June 2013

Picking the first fruit of your labour in the garden marks the turning point of the year.  The pleasure is only surpassed by the seductive fragrance of jasmine, orange blossom and roses.  “Hurrah” late spring finally arrives in our hilltop valley.

Enjoyed the first cucumbers, with home grown radishes, lettuce and spring onions, last night.  Looks as if it will be mid-July before green peppers and tomatoes join the plate.  Growing the cucumbers ‘up sticks’, as climbers has increased crop and got rid of yellow patches due to soil contact.

 Selection of different Courgettes grown this year.

French Beans – low growing green and yellow ‘Minidor’ and ‘Violette’ and ‘Cherokee’ climbing beans are already full of flower, all great in salads and freeze well - remember to blanche – magic winter treats with roast potatoes.

Courgettes are going to be spectacular this year.  Have ten varieties planted in various colours and shapes – ‘8 Ball’ round green currently early leader with ‘Romanesco’ (green stripes) and Rugosa Friulana’ (yellow knobbly) in close pursuit.  For real flavour the yellow and white ‘Patti Pans’ take some beating when stuffed and roasted.  Only failure in the ‘Zucchini’ stakes this year seems to be the ‘giant’ pumpkin ‘Big Max’.  Leaves are bright yellow.

The sun just got over the lip of the valley – must dash – back soon

Stuart