We have a really good seed raising system going now, and a great group of regulars helping out.
Last year we:
- Kept the FCGLP supplied with a constant range of seedlings for food growing
- provided seedling stock for market stalls that raised several hundred dollars
- did regular deliveries of plants to half a dozen community garden projects
- supplied community-grown seasonal plants to members and local home gardeners
- organised a tomato giveaway miracle at the St John’s Christmas event
- shared lots of ideas and knowledge with each other, and tried many new things!
Over the heatwave a few of the plants in the greenhouse got a bit scorched. The monitor showed a max temperature of 48.6. Humidity was between 40-99%. The collective watering schedule kept most things alive though and they all bounced back really quickly.
We have started sowing seeds for cool weather crops to get ahead of the expected change in season. Various cabbages have already germinated, and we will keep putting more down each to have a steady succession available over the end of Summer and when they are needed. We are still sowing runner beans, fennel, and summery things but can start thinking about brassicas, onions, and other long-season, cool-weather annuals.
We are collecting seeds from some of the fallen/spoiled fruit in the garden (Tomatoes, Cherry Tomatoes, Cucumber so far). The seeds are extracted, spread out onto a serviette, and are currently drying on paper plates on the top shelf of the seed library.
Our Open Sessions are a great time to come and have a cuppa, buy some seedlings, meet other community members, learn from our volunteers, and (if you fancy) help with planting.
For members, we also have:
- Wednesday propagation sessions from 4pm
- Harvesting and general maintenance – David and Heather would love you to join them on Tuesday mornings
- Monthly compost sessions when we turn and move on the compost bays (text me for details 0477 933134)