Adopt-a-garden scheme of interest to anyone?

Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by Liz on April 22, 2009 at 16:27

Yes, I noticed my little error but couldn't be bothered to delete and repaste...I intend for the kids to eat the fruit if we get any, so they don't think strawberries grow in plastic trays covered in cling film.

Permalink Reply by Alison P on April 22, 2009 at 18:32

Also, I think the concern used to be about lead in petrol, which isn't the case any more ...

Permalink Reply by Martha on April 22, 2009 at 16:30

Sadly, over the easter break we did have pots stolen from the front garden. It does make me think twice before spending more money on replacing them. I will certainly only be replacing them with plastic ones.

Permalink Reply by Alison P on April 22, 2009 at 18:22

Martha, how gutting. That happened to me a few years ago - now I just make sure they are so big and heavy that you couldn't move them (or are ones I don't care about very much). But must admit that I put a couple of larger boxes out front over easter and am very nervous about someone just rooting up a plant (this has also happened, am afraid to say).

But you've got to try - ultimately the pleasure I get from growing things out front (and, hopefully, that others get from seeing it) outweighs the occasional FURY when some numbskull rips it up or nicks it.

I dont have any more room for veggies, otherwise I'd be joining you like a shot. My only worry would be watering them in a hot spell - even with the rain of last summer, I seemed to spend ages trecking through the house with a dripping watering can! I keep wondering about getting a tap put in out there but it just seems like unnecessary expense (though if anyone else has done this woud love to know what it cost).

Permalink Reply by Boom on April 25, 2009 at 11:51

I definately think the front garden is a great space for growing. As do I like the idea of the adopt-a-garden scheme. I rent and have been discouraged from digging up the rear lawn by my housemates and letting agent. Wanting more space to plant as we're moving towards the summer, I have used an old bed box (the things that go under a mattress - commonly found in front gardens, as Liz mentioned!) and turned them into planting boxes, sowing some carrots a couple of days ago. The boxes aren't exactly the most attractive or smart things, but function well and didn't cost more than a bag of nails and a few hours.

I don't think one should worry about potential vandalism, as several people have pointed out it isn't that likely to happen and if it does, just start again!? I think part of the gardening beauty is the activity and learning from everything you do, as well as the final product. If you're using free planters that you aren't emotionally attached to, it isn't likely to upset you as much.

If anyone would like to know more about my makeshift boxes I'll post up some pictures, they're nothing special though. I have another box in the back garden waiting for conversion!

Permalink Reply by Liz on April 25, 2009 at 12:04

Boom, I would love to see your pics as the thought that you are recycling something that is normally chucked (often onto the streets) really interests me. We once did something similar creating small raised beds out of old drawers (as in chest of) and once the flowers were established and the wood got a bit weathered, you didn't really notice them.
(p.s. If you post them, make sure they are small as we have limited storage)

Permalink Reply by Alison P on May 4, 2009 at 20:52

Just to say that, inspired by this post, I've just planted out some french beans in pots in my front garden. Three plants in a big pot, three canes ... and crossed fingers. Can't wait!

Boom - would love to see your boxes, do post some pictures.

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