With the warmer weather we are experiencing at the moment, the kitchen garden is starting to produce. We’ve had lettuce, rocket and tiny radishes (from the thinnings) for salads, so far.

The carrots and parsnips are just showing but the peas, potatoes and runner beans are really taking off. We’re trying potatoes in huge bins this year as an experiment. I’ll let you know how they get on.

The cats are enjoying climbing the bean frame H has put up. He is not impressed.  

The strawberry plants are looking very healthy and exhibiting some flowers. H bought some red flowered ones, suitable for hanging baskets or containers, from the plant place near Ranes. I’ve never seen them before so it will be interesting to see what they are like.

I bought some French strawberries in the market in Bagnoles de l’Orne on Saturday morning, which were delicious. Red right through and so sweet! I wish I had asked what variety they were, but you think of these things afterwards, don’t you!

Did you know ‘Rhubarb, rhubarb, …’, is what actors used to mutter to each other on stage to suggest conversation to the audience? The rhubarb plants are going mad. We only have three plants but they’ve produced masses of fruit. Here’s a link to a recipe, posted earlier this year, for Rhubarb and Banana Jam. 

Enjoy!