What a difference a bit of sunshine makes! Muddy Fork, Retford’s gardening for wellbeing charity, has been enjoying the improved weather. The garden is ablaze with gleaming gold, as the marsh marigolds in the stream appear more spectacular than ever and have lasted particularly well.
Muddy Fork continues to receive generous support from the local community – individuals, organisations, and businesses alike. A recent unexpected donation, courtesy of Sandra and the wind tunnel effect in her own garden (which led her to decide it wouldn’t work), included a small greenhouse and a surprisingly capacious tube. It could be a small portable polytunnel or a large cloche – it’s hard to say! Either way, both items will be incredibly useful in protecting young plants from the elements, as well as from potential predators.
Ongoing support from Asda has once again arrived in the form of much-appreciated tea and coffee supplies – essential for those all-important breaks. Further donations are also under discussion or expected soon. Muddy Fork feels truly fortunate to benefit from such community solidarity.
On the growing front, things are looking good. Potatoes at various stages of development are progressing well and need earthing up. Beans of several varieties have, miraculously, mostly been left untouched by pigeons and other pests. Even the cabbages remain unbothered so far. Cucumbers, tomatoes, chillies, and many other seedlings are thriving, now requiring potting on or planting out. One crop is nearly ready for harvest – the radishes in the polytunnel. It’s a hopeful picture. Long may it continue!
Further information can be found at www.muddyfork.uk. To make a referral, offer your services as a volunteer, or make a donation, please contact Rose, Muddy Fork’s General Manager, at rose.muddyfork@outlook.com. Visitors to the garden are always welcome.