Page 10 - ALG Issue 3 2019

seasonal jobs to do...
September
Root crops such as carrots
Many maincrops will be coming to fruition this month and suitable storage methods should be prepared. Root crops such as carrots and beetroot should be lifted and inspected for damage; set aside damaged ones for immediate use and store the most
and perfect. Twist off tops and allow the
beetroot should be lifted
roots to dry slightly before packing in layers or in dry-ish sharp sand or peat. Alternatively, just dry, clean paper sacks can be used. Maincrop potatoes can now also be lifted and treated in a similar way.
October
Colder, damper weather will start
to creep in, so take advantage of any fair weather to stay ahead of tasks. Clear away fallen leaves, as they
are invaluable either for making leaf-mould or adding to the general compost heap. If any new fruit planting is planned, prepare the ground for
it now, thoroughly digging the soil, removing all traces of perennial weeds and adding whatever organic matter
is available. A good general fertiliser should be raked in and the site allowed to settle naturally for a few weeks before planting.
Keep ahead with the clearance of the plot. Remove any spent crops and add these to the compost heap if they are free from disease. Cultivate the soil, leaving it rough for the winter frosts to break down and save many laborious hours later on with the garden rake.
As frosts can start to creep in, have protection ready for any tender crops.
It is often advisable to protect any developing late cauliflowers by breaking a few leaves over the curd.
November
Shorter days and colder weather
Shorter days and colder weather
can make getting to the plot more difficult, but try and keep ahead with the winter digging, best done in short spells when the soil is not too wet and sticky. November is a good month for planting new fruit trees, canes and bushes in land which was prepared last month. Ensure that new specimens are properly staked and tied in well against hard winter winds.
10 Allotment and Leisure Gardener