WHARNCLIFFE ALLOTMENTS
Eastcliffe Road, Old Swan, Liverpool L13
News Archive
2013 -2014
Great Food, Great Friends, Great Success!
The end of year BBQ was a real success, we were delighted our friends from The Scouse Honey Bee Co and The Mersey Misfits were able to join in with our end of year celebration.
Fire starter Bill got the flames going, BBQ food was prepared by Jan and Jim, hot soup and onions cooked by Joan. The rain came and quickly went and thanks to everyone who came along we had a lovely time with lovely people! |
Open Day Success!
The carnival atmosphere at Wharncliffe Allotments' Open Day! All down to a lot of team work and support from our partner organisations (Liverpool Astronomical Society, Daisy UK and Scouse Honey Co).
Thanks to everyone who went the extra mile again and for donating produce to make Wharncliffe Allotments’ Open Day a success. Special mentions go to; Donna, Jo, Kirsty, Lol, Joan, Jimmy, Jan, Ann, Colin and Bill for all the preparation, baking and support on the day! |
Japanese Knotweed.
Japanese knotweed is a perennial weed, producing tall canes, up to 2.1m (7ft) in height during the summer. The canes have characteristic purple flecks, and produce branches from nodes along its length. These branches support shovel-shaped leaves. Failure to control Japanese knotweed can now lead to prosecution and a fine according to new Home Office rules.
For more information on Japanese Knotweed and its control visit the Royal Horticultural Society website: www.rhs.org.uk. |
Finally Wlaking on Solid Ground!
Recycled clay tiles now providing Sid's shed with a solid and tidy floor. It's taken 8 hours of laying, which sound okay, however the job has actually taken more that 4 weeks to completion...few!
Floor looks great, the panel walls are rotten and the leaking roof needs repairing! Time for a new shed Sid?...That's another project on the horizon. |
Still Flowering Here...
It's 16th November and we continue to enjoy a splash of colour across the whole allotment site. This is Bill's plot No.7a which has Phacelia Green Manure growing in one of the raised beds. Phacelia smothers weeds and has an extensive root system that improves the soil structure, something Bill is trying out this year.
|
Joan's Jam and Chutney Weekend!
Our members make the most delicious jams and preserves. However we do have to concede, the person responsible for making the largest quantities must be Joan (plot No.3). Joan held a Jam and Chutney weekend where she invited Wharncliffe Allotment members and friends to sample some of her lovely homemade produce and a chance to take some home with them. The choice was wide and varied: Cucumber pickle, Old Doverhouse, Courgette, Plum, Hubbard Squash & Orange and Moroccan Prune. That's just the chutneys!!
|
National Allotments Week 2015
We all know the dangers allotments face to survive, Farm Terrace Allotments (Watford) are waiting a judicial decision to preserve their site.
2015 the National Allotments Society (NAS) are asking allotments holders to take collective action to protect allotment sites for future generations. The NAS is a not-for-profit organisation, which exists to support the needs of all allotment holders across the UK. Through a membership programme they raise funds to ensure the future of allotment gardening is protected. National Allotments Week 2015 will be 10 to 16 August 2015. For more information on this and the NAS click here. |
Phoenix Primary School Visit.
Wharncliffe Allotments were delighted to welcome Phoenix Primary School's Class 7 Pupils to our small site. All the children were very well behaved and a credit to their school. They were given a tour of the site and a chance to see the Honey Bees and their hives. As an added treat they all helped Mrs Benltey dig for potatoes and picked fruit from trees.
|
Amazing Nature.
Orchids are truly divers in terms of variety and where they thrive. There are over 25,000 species most of which are found in tropical areas where big, showy flowers are produced. Joan Doyle introduced me to some amazing images of orchids that look more like animals than flowers (click the image to see more). In the UK there are over 50 species of orchid some species are now very rare.
Find out more about British Orchids at The North England Orchid Society http://www.orchid.org.uk/intro.htm |
End of Season Member's BBQ.
The date is finally agreed, Whanrcliffe Allotments Committee is holding the end of season BBQ Saturday 1st November.
All members of Wharncliffe Allotments are invited to attend our BBQ. A special invitation also goes out to friends of Wharncliffe Allotments; Liverpool Astranomical Society, Mersey Misfits, Scouse Honey Co and Daisy UK. You are all welcome to join us in our celebrations. |
A Taste of Scouse Honey.
Wharncliffe Allotments' bees produce their first bumper crop of honey this year. Honey was collected from Wharcliffe Allotments by the Scouse Honey Co, jarred and shipped to customers across Merseyside. A major customer of Scouse Honey is Everton FC, so our members were delighted to get their hands on a share and a chance to taste the sweet rich flavoured honey produced by our very own bees.
For more information on Scouse Honey Co. visit their website: http://scousehoneyco.weebly.com/ |
Afternoon Tea Ladies?
Could this be the new Tea Gang at Wharncliffe Allotments? Jan and Joan enjoy a brew after inspecting their plots and inbetween showers. We can all remeber the orignal Gang (Sid, Bernie and Wally). I think we all agree the new look Tea Gang are a much more cheerful lot and with Sid's shed is out of commission maybe this is a much nicer spot, certainly alot tidier!
I'm sure there's room for more than one Tea Gang!...I wonder do they emit a deep loud 'Sid' roar when tea's up? |
Photographs from the Open Day.
We have some great images to share with members and visitors to our site, all thanks to budding photographers both at Wharncliffe Allotments and our partner organisations.
Thanks to David Bentley (Liverpool Astronomical Society) for the recent additional photographs for our open day pages, all of which look really good and help to present our site in a good light. To view photographs from all our contributors go to the Open Day link at the top of the page or click here. |
Harvest Time.Everyone is busy tidying their plots and bring in what looks to be a bumper harvest this year! Pictured her, Kirsty with her dogs displaying an impressive selection of produce from Plot No.8.
We'd like all our members to provide us with thier photographs so that we can put them on our site and share them with friends and visitor. |
Bill Kane's Green Manure Bed.Earlier this year we received phacelia seed from Tim Payne (City Bees), Bill set out by sawing the seeds in a raised bed near his shed and this is the result so far.
Phacelia Green Manure has beautiful scented purple/blue flowers with dense fern-like foliage. It smothers weeds and has an extensive root system that improves the soil structure. However it does self-seed very easily so if it is used as a green manure dig in before flowering or cut down and compost the foliage. It flowers from 6-8 weeks from sowing for a period of 6-8 weeks. |
A Real Gem on Our Doorstep!Just 5 miles from Liverpool City Centre is the National Wildflower Centre, a seasonal eco-visitor attraction in Knowsley just off the M62. The Centre exists to promote the creation of new wildflower habitats for people to enjoy and where wildlife can flourish and develop. It is a tranquil, family-friendly venue to visit and an urban haven where you will be inspired by nature. For more information visit their website: http://www.nwc.org.uk/
|
The Radical Book ShopNews from Nowhere, Liverpool's Radical & Community Bookshop has a great section on alloment books. The not-for-profit bookshop is located in Liverpool's city centre (96 Bold Street, Liverpool L1 4HY), well worth a visit.
Findout more from their website: www.newsfromnowhere.org.uk |
Time to Bring in the Harvest.Almost coming to the end of the 2014 season. Arguably the best time of year, when you begin to harvest produce you've looked after for months and then begin clearing the ground ready for next year. Tommy (Plot No.18) picking his sweet corn and clearing the remaining plant storks from his plot for recycling later. It was good seeing others doing the same today, people were gathering apples and pears and what remain of the soft fruits. Obviously certain fruits such as the raspberries and some vegetables will continue to give throughout the season so it's not entirely over.
The feeling is that this year has been very good for growing and maybe thanks in part to our hard working Scouse Honey Bees! |
Naturally Wild!We've seen so much more wildlife this year including some very inquisitive feathered friends. But that's not all, there's been an abundance of frogs, with one that continues to make an appearance on Jim and Donna's plot (No.20B). Capture here, a field mouse in serch of a late summer meal from the weed bed on Sid's plot (No.14). These little visitors are welcome to our site, this only possible because our members are providing the habitat suitable for them to survive. We look forward to seeing and recording other species in the future. Keep up the good work everyone!
More images on facebook. |
The Hot Water Bill.Being good Tea/Coffee drinkers at Wharncliffe Allotments and because we're also social animals, it's nice to be able to prepare a good amount of hot water in advance (especially during events), this was evident recently at our open day. Bill, our Treasurer has managed to bag an Aldi bargain. He has just purchased a good sized hot water urn which boils up to 7 litres...great buy Bill!
|
Liverpool Atronomical Society get out their Big Guns.The Liverpool Astronomical Society bring sky gazing to Wharncliffe Allotments. Visistor to our Open Day are invited to enjoy free supervised views of the sun with some of their latest reflector and the refractor telescopes.
To findout more about The Liverpool Astronomical Society visit their website: http://liverpoolas.org/ |
Open Day Live Music and Exhibitors!Wharcliffe Allotments is delighted to confirm the following exhibitors and performers for our Open Day. Live music by the Mersey Misshapes performing a selection of popular favourites. Liverpool Astronomical Society are equipt to show visitor a close-up look at the sun, Scouse Honey Co. to confirm. Sale items include; hot food, homemade cakes, hot drinks, plants, fruit and vegetables. Along with a raffle ther will be a table sale and free World War I recipes. We would love to welcome visitors to our little oasis in a small corner of Liverpool.
|
Daisy UK.Daisy UK's David Kelly (Managing Director) got intouch recently with an interest in having a stall at the open day this Saturday. Daisy UK 'Roots and Shoots' programme based at Wharncliffe Allotments has been operating for over 2 season, we are delighted to welcome them to our event.
Daisy UK, a charity striving for an accessible and inclusive environment for all. |
Xerochrysum bracteatum.Jimmy, Plot No.10, pointed this one out to me this week. Did a little search on Google to confirm what it is 'Straw Flower' (Xerochrysum bracteatum). Petals are just like paper to the touch, suitable for dried flower arrangement.
Jimmy has offered to save the seed heads for members who would like to grow them on their plot. You can have a word with Jimmy about this in person, he will be at the Allotment Open Day Saturday 13th September. |
Hidden Gems.Well not quite so hidden, but how have these lovely fruits escaped me? After a quick stroll around the site earlier today I was pleasantly suprised to see things on peoples plots I hadn't come across before. This vine belongs to Lyne and Jim (Plot No.20), Both vine cordons climb to the hight of the shed whilst the canes (bearing fruit) are carefully trained across the warmth of the shed wood panelling, where they take full advantage of the sun and it's heat radiating back off the shed. Each vine cane hold so many bunches of grapes, too many to count. Hope to ask Lynne which variety they are.
|
New Gazebo.After the wet of the last open event, it was decided by the committee a new quick set-up gazebo will help protect visitors and stalls should it rain on our next event (13 September Open Day). Our Treasurer Billy Kane took delivery of this ideal structure supplied by Leisure Gear, Garden and Camping Suppliers. Bill said Leisure Gear provided upto the minute information on dispatch and delivery date and times and within days the Gazebo has arrived as promised.
For information on Leisure Gear, their products and excellent service visit their site: http://www.garden-camping.com/ |
Yellow RaspberryFollowing-on from our "Strange Fruit" feature, this yellow raspberry variety is a lovely alternative to the traditional red, very sweet with a sharpness you get from raspberries. Pictured here showing a number of ripe yellow fruits ready to eat, with the small green fruits, which will ripen within a week or so. It is expected that these fruiting plants will fruit from July until the first frost of the year possibly October.
|
Our Members Join the Elite and the Brave!Jimmy and Kirsty have walked with giants this week by joining stars of Everton FC and Liverpool FC in the Ice Bucket Challenge. The Ice Bucket Challenge, sometimes called the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge, is an activity involving dumping a bucket of ice water on someone's head to promote awareness of the disease amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and encourage donations to research.
For more information and how to get involved visit http://www.macmillan.org.uk. |
Health Kick - Hybrid Tomato.A favourite variety with some of our growers and according to experts 50% more beneficial antioxidant lycopene than other fruits. Each plant produces good yields of very flavorful extra large plum shaped tomatoes, great in salads and ideal for sandwitches as they contain less water, good for cooking and easy to peel.
|
White Bush Scallop Squash.There are so many varieties of squash around these days, some of our members have taken it upon themselves to experiment with different types in place of what we might otherwise grow here. This specimen is the pride of Bill Kane (site treasurer). Bill has chosen to grow the White Bush Scallop Squash, it produces a very good yield of white squashes, easy to grow and rarely bothered by insects. A creamy texture with lots of flavour (also known as Patty Pan).
Ever prudent is our Bill, so this quash must be great value for money and a very good buy! |
On the Grape Vine.Sue Weeks works plot No.9 here at Wharncliffe Allotments. Each year it never fails to amaze me how the grape vine in Sue's greenhouse continues to produce lots of fantastic looking fruit. The vine seems to come into the greenhouse through the floor outside, climbs up the back sun-drenched glass panels before creeping its way across the ceiling to the front of the greenhouse near the entrance.
|
Bees out in Force.Took a few pictures over the last couple of days of some of our plots and how good they look this year. I was particularly impressed with the variety of flowers we grow and taken back by the number of bees taking advantage of them, franticly collecting pollen. Spotted a number of other insectes doing the same, more images on our Facebook pages.
|
Strange Fruit.There are some interesting and unusual finds at Wharncliffe Allotments. Yesterday I decided to take a wonder around the site to see what people have been growing which is slightly out of the ordinary.
Colin (plot No.16) has what looks like a fig tree growing in a pot (need to check), Jim and Donna (plot No.20) are trying-out a few interesting specimens including fennel, celery, and pattypan squash/scalloped squash a small bright yellow scalloped fruit (pictured here). Jim and Donna also have something called ‘spaghetti squash’ which looks nothing like spaghetti until you cook it. Over on Jan’s plot (No.15) there are some lovely large juicy tayberries (a cross between a blackberry and raspberry). Billy (plot No.7), is growing a small variety of cucumber with a very thin pale skin. Looks like people are interested in trying different types of fruit and vegetables. If any of our members are growing anything unusual we'd love to know, get intouch so we can feature them. More examples of these interesting veriaties can be found on our Facebook page. |
2014 Allotment Competition Results.This was the second year Whancliffe has taken part in the Association of Liverpool Allotments & Liverpool City Council's Allotment Competition. Earlier we announced 2 winners for Best of Wharncliffe Allotments Plot. However, due to a an error we can announce correctly there is a clear winner so we would like to put that right and congratulate Plot No.8 Jo and Kirsty for a fabulous plot an oasis of calm, colour and beauty, deserved winners! The compitition for Best Allotment Site was very close, Wharncliffe Allotments came a respectable 7th with 332 points, 1st place Mersy Road scored 356, just 24 points in it.
|
Pigeon Control.Whilst most will trust to luck or use conventional methods, some of our members have stepped it up a gear by being a little more creative. Plot 20 have decided on colourful balls and twirly windmills in the hope to confuse those pesky pigeons. Plot No.3 think by using a life-size plastic falcon (natural predator) to deter the pigeons from even thinking about landing on their plot of land, maybe they wont want to risk being the prey!
Click here for more information on birds of prey - natural predator. |
Amazing Plot No.11.Vitalice joined Wharncliffe Allotments last year, this being his second season. His main crop of Maze is a great addition to the many varieties of fruit and vegetables grown here. The success of this crop is put down, in part, to companion planting a combination of Maze and squashes seems to do the trick. From time to time Vitalice brings his sons to the site they help him with watering they enjoy meeting and talking to members of the site.
|
Woolton Woods Campaign.Woolton Woods and Camp Hill is located in a conservation area of Liverpool. The City Council are proposing to develop the land so that St Julies School can be relocated to the site. To findout more and have your say on the matter you can sign an e-petiotion:
http://www.wvra.co.uk/objection-to-council-proposal-to-build-new-st-julies-school-in-woolton-wood-green-space/ Camp Hill and Woolton Woods (liverpool.org.uk) |
Allotment Competition Week.This week sees the start of the Association of Liverpool Allotments Compitition, Thanks to Lyn Easby (Chair Association of Liverpool Allotments) we've managed to get our selves on the list of competitors. After last years success we hope to do even better this year. The sounds we've heard so far are promissing, we've raised some eyebrows as a result of our members hard work and well groomed plots in particular plot No.8 featured bellow by Kirsty and Jo. Other plots have made an impression too, only time will tell how well we've done.
As soon as we know the results we'll make them available here. |
Picture Perfect.The photograph taken by Kirsty (plot No.8) hear at Whancliffe Allotments, show what can be achieved in a short time to make your plot look as beautiful as this. Since joining us last year, Kirsty and her allotment partner, Jo thoroughly enjoy growing their own particular variety of fruit and vegetables. The picture also shows a colourful array of flowers to attract bees and other essential insect pollinators.
I would love to include photographs of other Wharncliffe Allotment Plots to show off our site to the rest of the community. You can provide photos of your plot via email to [email protected] or go to the Contact Us page. |
Visitor Numbers Reach New Highs!Over the last 3 days since the Allotment Open Day, we have seen over 400 visitors to our website. We hope the regular updates mean you will keep visiting us to see what's new and any events we are holding this year.
If you wish to send us a message or enquire about allotments in general, please go to the Contact Us page above and drop us a line. Visit us on Facebook and add us to your friend list. |
Wharncliffe Allotments Open Day.When planning outdoor events you are in the hands of the gods when it comes to the weather. If we could have booked it in advance then yesterday's Open Day at Wharncliffe Allotments would have been the hottest day of the year....sadly we all know that wasn't the case.
We didn't let something like that get us down far from it! The event was another success thanks to those who came along, we think of you as friends of Wharncliffe Allotments your support is amazing. Everyone enjoyed a stroll around the site to the delightful sound of live music provided by the Chatten family, followed by hot drinks, homemade cakes and blazing BBQ (compliments to our Chefs Kirsty & Jo Plot No.8). View our photo gallery here. |
|
The Allotment Song...Brilliant!Thanks to our good friend Andrea Hallissey (North West Counties Allotment Association) for introducing us to this lovely song just for us...when I say that I mean every allotment site in the world.
The allotment themed song courtesy of Andrea Hallissey and Rosemary Chandler. |
Plans for Open Day Agreed.At the Allotment General Meeting (Saturday 14th June), Jan Bently asked all members to get involved by doing something to help toward this years Open Day. After the success of last year we hope to make 2014 bigger and better by putting on a programme to suite all tastes.
|
Get Well Soon.After a long spell away, we are delighted to hear the news about our Chair Person (Dave Peacock), Dave is on the road to recovery and looking forward to returning to his place at Wharncliffe Allotments. Dave's family will be helping to get things up and running in time for his return and so he can take things a little easier than might otherwise be required.
Members also want to wish Billy Regan a full recovery and look forward to seeing him back with us very soon. |
Site Caretaker.It's official...Ben has kept a watchful eye over all of Wharncliffe Allotments both in his previous capacity as Secretary and a member of the Wharncliffe Allotment Association. Since leaving many years ago Ben has become a valuable, highly trusted neighbour and friend of Wharcliffe Allotments, letting us know of any security matters in our absence for which we are very grateful. In recognition of this and Ben's continued support, Tommy put it to the General Meeting (14th June 2014) that Ben be made Caretaker on an official basis, the motion was agreed by all those attending meeting.
Ben has already received keys to the gates, our thanks go out to Ben for his on-going support for Wharncliffe Allotments. |
Girl Power!Joe, Kirsty and Sue basking in yesterday's sunshine and discussing each other's plot now the vegatables are begining to establish themselves. All three of our allotment members have great plots which are well managed, full of colour and produce. They may also be contenders for best front of polt at the Allotment Open Day next month when the public will be asked to give their vote.
|
Joan's got them eating out of her hand!The wildlife have a friend in Joan (plot No.3) so much so they'll feed from her hand. All manner of birds benefit from Joan and Lol's generosity including this little fella!
For more images like this visit our Facebook pages: https://www.facebook.com/wharncliffe.allotments |
The Outlook Just Got Brighter!Wharncliffe Allotment Association Secretary, Jan Bentley is delighted with her newly fitted shed-window. The expert glazing is thanks to Lol Doyle (Plot No.3). Another great example of the community spirit we come to expect and encourage here at Wharncliffe Allotments. Jan says she loves the new window and view from inside her shed, she's already started to reorganise the inside to maximize it...
...the Scouce Honey Co. guys (Mike and Ged) will be pleased, they also use the shed to change into their protective gear before visiting the site's beehives! |
Here's Wharlly!We seem to have acquired a permanent tenant at Wharncliffe Allotments. We've named this beautiful racing pigeon Wharlly and decided to adopt it as the site mascot. Wharlly flew in earlier this week, he possibly becoming lost as a result of a recent race. Occasionally racing pigeons get lost on their way to their home coup, usually as a result of exhaustion or confusion. We have been in contact the authorities who will inform the registered owner. We are informed that very often, owners don't particularly want non-returning pigeons, so we may well end-up keeping Wharlly who has already made an impact on our members.
|
Hedgehog Awareness Week.Hedgehog Awareness Week runs from 4th-10th May 2014 and hedgehoggy events are being organised all around the country! Hedgehog Awareness Week is organised by the British Hedgehog Preservation Society and takes place every year. It aims to highlight the problems hedgehogs face and how you can help them.
|
For a Little Peace.Here's a little light reading from one of our most creative members Joan. The poem maybe gives a little insight to the daily activities of the Doyle household and why Joan and LOl really appriciate their time at the allotment.
Thanks Joan for the second installment, should other members wish to contribute to our site in a similar way, email [email protected]. Maybe we should have a 'Poet's Corner'? Interested, let me know. |
Life on the Allotment.Wharncliffe has a diverse wildlife, some we've featured on our website (our wildlife page here). It is always pleasing to experience new life from the start, the image on the left is a good example of this. The photograph on the left taken of Jimmy's pond (plot No.10), click to view larger image.
|
The Best of PlotAll our members are invited to take part in an Wharncliffe Allotments Challenge. Your challenge is to create an oasis of beauty to the front of your plot. Each plot will be judged for colour, creativity, verity and tidiness. The aim is to make the allotment site a feast for the eye and to welcome our visitors to the Open Day in June.
Prizes will be awarded to the best plots, so come-on get stuck in! |
Site Hits - the Picture So Far.I was asked recently if many people actually visits our website, when I explained the number of hits we get on average is around 40/50 per day, it was met with a look of surprise. The good thing about having a website, you can monitor how popular it is by the stats you get on the number of visits you receive. To the left is a graph that show the number of page hits over a month period which I think for the smallest allotment site in Liverpool is pretty good!
|
Hidden TalentsWharncliffe Allotment Members are fabulous people, they're great growers, full of that famous Liverpool charm, fast witted and always willing to offer a hand. But recently I learnt there may be another side to them, a hidden telent just waiting to be uncovered. Joan recently put pen to paper and came up with a delightful little poem.
Click the image to read the poem by Joan. |
Flowering Rhubarb Seedpods.As nice and as colourful rhubarb flowers may look, they can prevent fresh stalks from growing, as all the plants energy is devoted to the flower. It is therefore recommended the flower be removed, to do this you should cut the flower stem as close to the main plant as possible (at the base of the flowering stalk), use a good pair of pruning shears to do this. Once the flower is removed you should find the plant will recover and continue to produce fruiting stems.
|
Daffodils Brighten the Allotment.Daffodils looking brilliant on the allotment, they offer a place for bees to feed and provide a feast of colour for our eyes.
Not long now before each plot is filled with a variety of colour from many more plants. Open flowers are ideal for the bees, if you are thinking of planting flowers this year, choose those that help feed our bees and attract other useful insects to your plot. For ideas on the best plants for bees visit the RosyBee website: http://www.rosybee.com |
A Model Allotment.Evie is a clever little almost 4 year old who loves to be always doing something. We often bake Monday mornings when I mind her and she is a whizz at cracking eggs. She loves the allotment and that is where her inspiration came from for this model allotment scene. Most of the veg she made herself with just a little help from me as she is sooo independent. Left hand side cabbage, top centre carrots with caulie, lettuce and a pumpkin underneath. Right hand side beans at the top, apples and cucumbers underneath. Next to the beans is a huge courgette and bottom next to the cucumbers are three tomatoes. Next year's plan will include crop rotation, important for every allotment plot.
This kept Evie busy for ages and you don't get so dirty! |
Lookin' Good, Feelin' Fine!There are times when you just despair, because no matter what you do your plot doesn't look as tidy or cared for as it should be.
But not today, so many people have worked hard to get their plots into shape. The best of cause is to come, you can't beat the feeling you get from picking your own produce and serving it up at home. It could be a simple thing like picking an apple from one of your trees, collecting a punnet of strawberries from a raised bed or potatoes pulled from the ground. Just some of the benefits we get from putting a little time and effort in to working our plots, now you can't beat that! |
Spring to Life.This has to be one of the best and busiest times of year on an allotment. First we get going with the big clean-up, then the prep-work before planting out. Of cause it's worth all the hard work because as you know we are now into that part of the year where the seasons colours have changed as flowers start to show and fruit tress begin to blossom in advance of fruiting.
|
Wharncliffe mini Treasure.You may have heard the news about the new £1 coin due to be issued which looks similar to a threepenny bit?
We found a coin from the past, a 1931 King George V Sterling Silver Threepence coin popped up from the ground after a bit of digging on the plot. Not worth a great deal, but it offers a trip back down memory lane for those who remember. This version of the coin with King George facing left to the observe and the revers three acorn leaves and acorns divided, issued between 1927 and 1936. |
Wharncliffe's VIP.Not only was it a very pleasant day on the allotment today, Wharncliffe welcomed a very important visitor to see the hens on plot No.2.
Evie arrive on site accompanied by her Great Aunt, Joan (plot No.3) to inspect Brian's hens. The hens have settle in to their new home extremely well and seem to produce at least one egg a day. Evie was delight to help with the days feeding, she soon had the hens eating out of her hands, she has that effect on Great Uncle Lol too! More photos of Evie's visit on Facebook. |
Billy & Audrey.Bill and Audrey get to grips with their plot at Whanrcliffe Allotments. Bill on his knees tending to the ground whilst Audrey, sporting her yellow 'World Firefighter Games' outfit, takes charge of the decor painting their shed a lovely shade of brown.
Bill and Audrey volunteered at the games when hosted in Liverpool back in 2008. The Games are the Fire Service equivalent of the Olympics. They were both very proud to tell me (and deservedly so), their son Alan, a Merseyside Firefighter also competed in the games. The next World Firefighter Games will be held in Loss Angeles August 2014. |
A Day at the Allotment.It was good to see so many people at Wharncliffe Allotments today, all getting stuck-in. Jimmy sorting his seeds for sowing and tending to cutting taken last year from a blueberry plant. Early crocuses and daffodils provide the site with a splash of colour and a hint of spring. Bernie and Jim relax for a second with a hot brew whilst the girls continue working the plot, things haven't changed too much then chaps!
For more images from today visit us on Facebook! |
A.L.A. Business Meeting Croxteth Hall 27 Feb 2014.A.L.A. membership subscriptions for 2014-15 are £15 / member organisation/ annum, and should be paid at latest, at the ALA business meeting due to be held on Thursday 29th May 2014. Membership subs can be paid at the coming meeting on the 27th Feb.
A.L.A. Business meeting - Committee Members: Treasurer: Barbara Rigby (Harthill Allotments) Chairperson: Lyn Easby (Mersey Road Allotments) Secretary: Rod Massie (Seeds Lane Allotments) |
After the Storm, the Clean-up.Sue and Peter (Plot No.9) team-up to repair the greenhouse damage caused by last weeks gale-force-winds. A number of other plots suffered a similar fate so there is much to do to get things back to normal. We have been extremely fortunate at Wharncliffe Allotments not to have experienced worse damage, apart from a few broken windows and some overturned tubs, bins and boards, nothing too serious to report.
|
Age Old Question Put to Rest...
We've finally answered the age old quest, "what came first?" It was definitely the chicken! They arrived on site 3 days ago and only yesterday did we find the egg. So the answer in unequivocally the chicken.
Brian is now the proud owner of 5 lovely hens and an egg, congratulations! To see more photos of the hens visit us on Facebook. |
Wharncliffe Allotments' Working Party.
At the last General Meeting, Jimmy Flynn proposed a working party be formed in order to maintain the allotment grounds, ensuring the site's perimeter remains secure and report any issues back to the committee for a solution. A number of people have already agreed to be part of the first Working Party lead by Jimmy. The date for the first group is set forSunday 16th February at 10am. Members interested in being part of the Working Party, contact a Committee Member or turn-up on the day for duty.
A skip will arrive on site in time for the removal of unwanted materials. Jimmy (Able Tree Services), has some new trees (hawthorn) he is willing to donate to help sure-up the back of plot No.14 overlooking Doric Park. |
Winter Bee Inspection.
Mike (Scouse Honey Co.) inspected both hives recently, he was delighted to report the bees are doing well, they have plenty of honey to see them through the remaining winter. Great news for Wharncliffe Allotments as we have a good supply of pollinators and it also proves we are the ideal location for Scouse Honey Bees!
|
Premiership High Fliers.
Our bees have made it to the Premier League. You will find Scouse Honey on the menu of Everton Football Club, Dixie Dean Suite. The Scouse Honey Company recently announce they now supply honey to Gareth Billington, (executive chef) at Goodison Park. Gareth has included Scouse Honey on the menu a number of occasions and we are delighted that Wharncliffe Allotment Bees will produce honey for the Blues during special events and on match days.
|
Brian's Hens Cooped-up in Style.
One of our members has invested in a quality residence for the arrival of his hens. Brian, on Plot No.2 has always been interested in keeping hens, now he has the opportunity to fulfill his ambition on the new Plot. The hens haven't been chosen just yet, but when they do arrive and they take-up residence they're bound to love it.
Not only will they be given the best accommodation possible, Brian has install an automatic door system timed to allow the hens out of their warm coop to roam a secure area protected from the elements, where the hens can enjoy refreshments and get plenty of exercise, without fear of fox attention. To see more visit us on Facebook |
Rent Increases - Rodney Massie Speaks-out.
Rodney Massie writes an open letter to Keith Gerrard, Divisional Manager, Sport and Outdoor Recreation. In response to a letter “Notice regarding New Allotment Rents and Tenancy Arrangements” saying allotments provide excellent value for money. Rodney (Elected Secretary of the “Association of Liverpool Allotments”) expressed his opinions as an allotment holder, drawing on his knowledge and experience as an elected representative of allotment holders in Liverpool since 2007. Rodney strongly rebutted this claim, explaining allotments in Liverpool are not excellent value for allotment holders, but are excellent value for the local authority. Rodney outlines the benefits of allotments to the environment, personal and social wellbeing. these and other benefits are recorded and recognised by the Government Health Agency (HSC) on their website. He also explains that it is only for the good will of an army of volunteers that allotments sites, societies and associations are organised and well maintained social and leisure environments for the community.
Rodney goes on to explain, unlike Libraries and Parks and Gardens, allotments are legally protected. In view of the fact that the local authority has a legal and moral obligation to provide allotments and an allotment service, and in view of the well documented environmental, social, educational, physical, and other numerous benefits of allotments, it seems paradoxical that allotment holders/volunteers are uniting to defend the heritage of allotments because they feel threatened by the very local authority that should support their collective efforts. |
Sheffield Allotments Face Price Hike.An ‘extortionate’ proposed hike in allotment fees has come under fire – with hundreds of Sheffield residents backing a protest.
Allotment-holders with plots at Morley Street allotments, Walkley, currently pay £100 a year in fees – but face a rise to £160 in 2014, which they say will make them the most expensive in the country. Read more here.... |
The Benefits of Raised Beds.Some people may feel raised beds are detrimental to growing vegetables on an allotment as they take up valuable space. However, there are those who say raised beds bring added benefits to their plot.
Wharncliffe Allotments has seen a growth in the use of raised beds or garden boxes, the main benefits to our members seem to be a better managed plot, less bending and reduced back strain. They keep pathway weeds from your garden soil, prevent soil compacting, provide good drainage and serve as a barrier to pests such as slugs and snails. The sides of the beds keep your valuable garden soil from being eroded or washed away during heavy rains. |
|
Wharncliffe Allotments on TV.View a short video on our YouTube Chanel taken last year. Watch us with friends and the local community enjoying an Open Day programme of entertainment and whilst participating in fun and games including a raffle, guess the weight of the marrow and sampling great homemade food.
Click here to visit us on YouTube. |
Good Enough to Show
Joan Doyle pulled up two magnificent parsnips that wouldn't look out of place in the best of show category.
Joan and Lol manage Plot No.3, they have both worked hard to turn around what was once an overgrown corner of Wharncliffe Allotments full of Marestail, to a wonderful tranquil spot with productive beds, lovely plants and a couple of reclaimed sheds. Well done guys keep up the great work! |
Down on the Allotment.
Jimmy Riley has planned his plot on paper and started to prepare the land for next seasons plants. Jimmy has a rotation plan that he says helps to condition the soil whilst allowing him to maximise his favorite vegetables. Sid Baxter has also made a start on next seasons produce. After getting the greenhouse to temperature (between 50° & 60°), his seed onions have started to sprout.
Everyone will soon be thinking of stocking-up on fertilisers, growbags and other such essentials to help them with preparations. All of which can be arranged and ordered through the Committee so don't leave it too late. |
Throw it Grow it!
Spotted a new trend spreading the country, it's fun, safe and good for the environment. Seed bombing is a way of creating an oasis of colour and beautiful flowers in an otherwise drab and uninviting environment. According to Kabloom, seedbombs are made of an explosive mix of peat-free organic compost coir and a selection of flower seeds embedded into a compacted recycled paper shell.
For more information about their product visit: http://kabloom.co.uk/blog/ |
A Growing Trend.
Seed swaps are events where gardeners meet to exchange seeds. Swap meet events, where growers meet and exchange their excess seeds in person or online and are growing in popularity in the UK.
Findout more about Seed Swap Events and where they're being held, here are a couple of interesting sites: http://www.seedysunday.org/index.aspx - advertsing events across the UK http://www.gardenswapshop.co.uk/ - a free online garden swap website |
WET WET WET...
The forecast today is for more rain before brightening-up later, the ground is already sodden, becoming muddy and there's more wet stuff on the way.
Spent a little time this morning in the shed with Sid (it was raining), had a couple of hot teas before doing a tour of the site. The overwhelming image is that of very wet plots, water-buts overflowing, raised beds submerged by the conditions which fail to improve. On a positive note, there's always something to do whatever the weather, so Sid started to sow onion seeds before storing them on a warm shelf in the greenhouse, heated by a really old but reliable paraffin heater, job done! |
Great Team-Work.
Last week saw a delivery of some good quality, much needed organic muck. Thanks to Jan, Brian and Jimmy for teaming-up to share out the manure delivery between all plots, this meant everyone receiving a fair share. Thanks also to Sid for providing the team with a well deserved refreshing brew after what can only be described as a good morning of fun, but back breaking work.
Thanks Guys from us all! |
Recent Storm Damage.
Winds of up-to 80mph hit the UK yesterday leaving thousands of households without electricity. Wharncliffe Allotments preparations has meant minimal disturbance to plot holders, with jus two plots suffering what looks to be just minor wind damage.
To see more images of the damage caused visit us on Facebook. |
Liverpool Allotment Rents Notice.
Rents will remain unchanged for 2014. However, the Government’s Spending Review, which has reduced funding to Liverpool City Council by more than 50% of its controllable budget the Council now has to consider a number of very challenging options around the various services it provides.
Liverpool Allotments Association has received official notice of rent increases for 2015. Although no decision has been made on the nature of a rent rise we can only hope Liverpool Allotments do not see the same increases as other associations throughout the country. Liverpool has the highest number of deprived communities in the UK, a rent increase at a time of sever austerity for the city could hit members hard. |
Leeds Allotment Group to Sue Council in Rent Increase Row.
The headlines speak for themselves. The Leeds and District Allotment Gardeners Federation is suing on what it claims is a failure by the council to determine a reasonable amount of rent in line with Section 10 Allotments Act 1950. Read more here: Yorkshire Evening Post
You can also catch this story on the BBC who have run it locally (BBC News Leeds & West Yorkshire). |
New Website Banner Image!
Last month we asked you to vote on a new banner image for our website. We placed a number of images on our Facebook pages for you to 'Like'. The image with the most Likes by the end of November would replace the old gooseberry image which we've had since 2010. As you can see at the top of the page we now have the new banner in place, our thanks goes to Bill Hutchins for his contribution and ultimately choosing the new image from the six options via our Facebook pages.
The new image is of the main walkway through the allotment showing the variety of buildings and plants offering an array of colour throughout the site. |
Member's Meeting Feb 2014
Plot Holders are advise the next meeting of Members will take place Saturday 1st February (10am). Please send your items for discussion to Jan Bentley (Chair Person) in writing or use the 'Contact Us' form on this website.
There are lots to discuss and we look forward to the usual excellent turnout and to seeing you all their. Please forward your apologies to Jan or a member of the committee. |
Allotment Scrutiny Panellast week a paper was presented to The "Neighbourhood Select Committee" of the Liverpool City Council with the aim of establishing terms of reference for an "Allotment Scrutiny Panel". The aim of the Allotment Scrutiny Panel is to review the current approach to managing and developing the Allotments Service in Liverpool. The panel to be appointed as a task and finish group consisting of Members, appropriate offices and an allotment holder advisory member representative.
A Draft Terms of Reference for an Allotment Scrutiny Panel to be presented and discussed at the ALA Business Meeting 28th November (Croxteth Hall). _ |
Pond Life and Pest Control
Left unchecked plots and gardens can be quickly overrun with slugs, snails and other unwanted guests. One effective way to controlling numbers is to introduce pond life. Frogs are a gardeners best friend and will devour both slug and snails which form the main part of their diet. Common frogs do not feed at all throughout the breeding season, but when they are active they will feed on any moving invertebrates of a suitable size. Adult frogs feed entirely on land, whereas younger frogs will also feed in the water.
For more examples of Wharncliffe Ponds visit us on Facebook |
Support Seaton Allotments.
Seaton Allotments is situated in Seaton Village near Workington, Cumbria. Members defiantly held their Community Bonfire Celebrations recently under a cloud of uncertainty. Their story is a familiar one of closure and one that is being played-out, everyday across the UK. We all know how important our small allotment is to us in Liverpool, more so now than ever in these times of austerity. People from Seaton Village believe their allotments are an asset to their village and they should do everything they can to hold on to them.
Find out more and support about Seaton Allotments visit their Facebook Pages: FACEBOOK |
Wharncliffe Allotment Recipes.
Our members have started to share their favourite recipes on our website, to find out what they like to do with the produce grown by them at Wharncliffe Allotments go to 'The People' tab above and click on the 'Recipe' link for some great, easy to make recipes anyone can try.
Our members have started to share their favourite recipes on our website, to find out what they like to do with the produce grown by them at Wharncliffe Allotments go to 'The People' tab above and click on the 'Recipe' link for some great, easy to make recipes anyone can try.
Bernie McGuire Hangs Up His Garden Gloves!
All our members would like to wish Bernie McGuire a long and restful retirement from working his plot. After many years at Wharncliffe Allotments, Bernie has decided to finally retire his trowel and call time on his plot. Bernie's apple and plum trees are legendary here, we've all enjoyed picking from their branches. As a longtime member, Bernie will always be welcome at Wharncliffe, spending time with all his friends and joining us in our famous tea shed for a chat....Cheers Bernie from us all!!
All our members would like to wish Bernie McGuire a long and restful retirement from working his plot. After many years at Wharncliffe Allotments, Bernie has decided to finally retire his trowel and call time on his plot. Bernie's apple and plum trees are legendary here, we've all enjoyed picking from their branches. As a longtime member, Bernie will always be welcome at Wharncliffe, spending time with all his friends and joining us in our famous tea shed for a chat....Cheers Bernie from us all!!