This week has been a very cold one. We had -3ºC followed by -4ºC on Tuesday morning and the frost didn’t melt away ‘til luncheon. The only thing steaming was the compost heap. So, here’s a picture from sunnier times to excite you about next year.
We have been planning for next season, signing the contract on the small parcel of land we will cultivate in the spring. This will enable us to upscale production and open the scheme up to more people. We are sending out an email to update everyone on how we are to incorporate, the price of a share next year and how to sign up. Hopefully it will be fully comprehensive but do contact us if you have any queries.
We have managed to get our garlic crop planted despite torrential rain and darkening afternoons. We got the last ones in under moon-light last week, and so far the worms haven’t pushed them out.
In the box this week, and lucky survivors of the frost, is Chinese Cabbage. Sadly not quite everyone gets one as the slugs took out a fair few, so count yourself lucky if you do. They are delicious steamed or stir-fried and equally good finely slice in salads. Non Chinese Cabbage shares will get something exciting cabbage related as a substitute and the cauliflowers are still growing so everyone will have had one by the end.
The squash this week is called Black Futsu. The first thing you will notice is that it is not black, but I have sliced one open and they are deliciously sweet and orange inside so all is in order. If your squash are mounting up then just store them somewhere cool and dry and they will keep for weeks, if not months. A few people will have a Blue Ballet, just to confuse things!
Finally, another reminder to come to the next Chagfood work-day on Saturday the 27th November from about 10am to 3pm. We will hopefully be able to prepare the soft fruit area and really do need the help! Bring warm clothes, waterproofs, a thermos of hot drink and we will provide lunch.