Despite the continuing unpredictable and unreliable weather, the growing season at Muddy Fork had finally taken off properly during August.
In the polytunnels, the tomatoes in particular made good progress and ripening. In the garden, garlic had been lifted, beetroot enjoyed, and other vegetables were looking healthy. Harvests from the fruit trees in the orchard will be variable, but the plums are amazingly productive this year – to the extent that two heavily laden limbs have collapsed completely (sadly before the fruit was ripe, though it may still be possible to use it for chutney).
Some good news came with the discovery that the Charity had been nominated for an award and was now a finalist in the Green Award category of the BBC – Make a Difference Awards. A crew from Radio Nottingham spent a very damp July morning in the garden, filming and interviewing a range of people involved with the project. A short video can be found on Facebook at fb.watch/m0EO-U2EE6.
Needless to say, the wildlife continues to thrive – which may or may not be a good thing for gardeners! The wet weather has brought the slugs out but on the plus side, sightings of grass snakes have been followed up by the discovery of eggs in one of the compost heaps again, as has happened in previous years.
Muddy Fork is pleased to hear from anyone who might like to know more. Referrals from agencies or self-referrals are always welcome and work can always be found for additional volunteers! More details of the gardening sessions and on how to get involved can be found at www.muddyfork.org or email enquiries@muddyfork.org.