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Volume 19
Part 3
£3.99 N
50 Years and Still Growing
the quarterly magazine of the National Vegetable Society
SUMMER 2013
Getting
started
PAGE 16
Chelsea
PAGE 8
Growing
commercially
PAGE 24
Growing pains
PAGE 28
simply sponsored by
grow2eat.com Membership renewal form on inside back cover
savings, benefits and discounts
simply
vegetables
…53 years
and still growing
15 Kg (40Ltr) Bag £4.45 + vat delivered The Quarterly Magazine of the National Vegetable Society
Volume 19 Part 3 July 2013 Charity registered 1088979
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Medwyn Williams MBE Barry Newman FNVS sub-editors below.
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of water for an excellent liquid feed Treasurer 01279 850511
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Scatter a handful on each layer of e-mail: derek@aldred.org.uk 01267 236586
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TA11 6PF (tick appropriate box) There is a request from the Trustees on the National Executive Committee that any member not wishing Burley-In-Wharfedale,
Name ____________________________________________ to have their name and personal contact details appearing in NVS media, such as the Directory, website Ilkley, West Yorkshire,
or Simply Vegetables should contact the National Secretary.
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have received unwanted email, where potentially their address has been sourced from NVS media. 01943 862106
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can protect its members from unauthorised contact by individuals and organisations acting without
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NVS permission. Action can and will be taken against such activities on behalf of the member if required. …to whom all articles for inclusion in the
NO CHEQUES REQUIRED - Delivery and payment arranged through our wholesaler David Thornton FNVS, National Secretary. magazine should be sent.
ORGANICO.indd 1 2/8/11 09:39:01
2 simplyvegetables simplyvegetables 3
contents
Kitchen Garden and
the National
Vegetable Society –
together helping the
nation to grow better
vegetables
chairman’s thoughts
The Team Movers and Shakers in the NVS......................................................................................................................................................... 3 Barry Newman FNVS
Chairman’s Thoughts Barry Newman.................................................................................................................................................................... 5
Editor’s Ramblings. David Allison, A little bit of everything......................................................................................................................... 6 Welcome to the July edition of Simply Vegetables to be flying. I have tried to fit the ‘growing’ season
and I hope you enjoy it. somewhere in between as you have heard, but it
Freezing Fruits and Vegetables. Mary Thomas............................................................................................................................................. 10 The growing season should be in full swing by now seems to get squeezed more and more. Not that I’m
From the Kitchen. Recipe page Mary and Linda’s mouth watering dishes.................................................................................... 11 with the vegetable garden nearly fully planted and the complaining, I enjoy all three, but it’s sometimes hard
salad crops starting to earn their keep. For me July is to fit other things in when taking bookings two years
Editors Postbag Your chance to have your say on any matters horticultural................................................................................ 12 very much a month for tending, weeding, protecting in advance. I know senior colleagues experience the
News from The Trustees. Mark Hall..................................................................................................................................................................... 15 and just enjoying watching things grow. same demands and like me are happy to give of their
There are however some things to do and some time for the Society in order that we maintain our
Getting Started on the Allotment part 6. Derek Brooks.......................................................................................................................... 16 forward planning to consider, the latter being basically reputation as being the best supplier of quality speakers
Slugs, slug pellets and predatory ground beetles George Pilkington............................................................................................. 26
Growing –Commercially –No dig John Murrell.............................................................................................................................................. 24 6 about ensuring that my winter and spring eating is
catered for. I know it seems a long way off but early
July is really the last chance to ensure the winter
and qualified judges. To all of them I would like to say
thank you. What you are doing is absolutely essential in
establishing and maintaining the Society’s credential and
Facebook, The Future? Emily Plumb.................................................................................................................................................................. 26 vegetable garden is complete. My Brussels Sprouts energising kitchen gardeners across the country.
(Montgomery), Kale (Dwarf Curled) and Purple Outside of the show and display season, talks
Growing Pains part 1 Adam Greathead............................................................................................................................................................. 28 Sprouting (Rudolf) are all doing well. The Perpetual to affiliated societies, horticultural groups, garden
Biochar Seed Compost Trial, and other interesting bits Mick Poultney........................................................................................ 31 Beet has just been planted as have the Leeks
(Neptune) and Celeriac (Monarch).
clubs and a host of other miscellaneous groups is
where our recognition and membership comes from.
I know it seems a
Perennial Vegetables part 2, David Wall............................................................................................................................................................ 32 Jobs for the next couple of weeks include sowing
Historty of Herbs and their uses, Part 1 Richard Adams and Sally Fleming................................................................................ 36 my winter cauliflowers and over wintering Japanese
Consequently it’s important that we tap this source of
involvement. I would therefore like everyone reading long way off but
Onions. I particularly like ‘Senshyu’ for its hardiness this to influence their own groups into booking an NVS
Carrot Growing Competition on Jersey Collette Bisson.......................................................................................................................... 38
early July is really
20
and maturing as it does in early June; it’s a great gap speaker or judge. It’s a great way of raising both the
Less common varieties of top fruit Gerry Edwards.................................................................................................................................... 39 filler. Cleaning the space left by the Shallots (Hative) Society’s and clubs profile.
Pests and Diseases Part 2 Mark Hall.................................................................................................................................................................. 41
and Garlic (Solent Wight) is also on the cards and
the perfect opportunity of providing a bit of space for
Finally, can I wish you all good growing and with all
that wonderful produce consider supporting your local
the last chance to
What’s new in vegetable Research David Thornton.................................................................................................................................. 43
Branch Newsletters Scottish Branch............................................................................................................................................ 45
those things I might have forgotten.
I hope you have all had a go at growing your
show. It really is a great way of meeting like minded
people and having a bit of fun, try it! ensure the winter
Courgettes vertically up stakes this year. My ‘Venus’ Barry
Northern Branch............................................................................................................................................ 46 are really doing well and already producing fruit out of PS If you are interested in becoming a judge, please vegetable garden is
the clutches of slugs and the wet ground. It really is a check out the regional contacts as examinations will be
Midland Branch.............................................................................................................................................. 50
Welsh Branch (including Ireland)......................................................................................................... 54
brilliant way of saving space and ensuring a clean crop.
After just finishing the ‘talks’ season, I am now fast
held in October. For those wishing to put themselves
forward as speakers please contact the National
complete.
approaching the ‘judging’ season and time just seems Secretary.
32
Southern Branch............................................................................................................................................ 56
DVD Library and order form..................................................................................................................................................................................... 59
Membership Application/Renewal Form and Branch Membership Sec’s.................................................................................. 59
Competition terms and conditions
Competitions are open to all UK residents aged 18 or over, excluding employees or agents of the associated publishing
company and their families. One entry per person. The prizes and giveaways are as specified on the relevant pages. No
cash alternatives. Entries must be via post or email as stated (no purchase necessary). Illegible entries and those that do
not abide by these terms and conditions will be disqualified. No responsibility is held for entries lost, delayed or damaged in
the post, proof of posting is not proof of delivery. Your details will be processed by Crest Publications (publishers of Simply
Vegetables magazine on behalf of the NVS) in full accordance with data protection. Crest Publictions may wish to contact
you with information of other services we provide which maybe of interest. Please indicate on your entry if you DO NOT wish 36
to receive such information by post, phone or email. The decision of the judge is final and no corresponance will be entered These ‘Swift’ potatoes were planted in an empty raised bed using Leek ‘Neptune’ ready for The Chairman getting down to some serious work with Hampshire
into. Winners will be notified by phone, email or post, a list of winners is available on request from Crest Publications, 1 the previous year’s potato bag compost with a little added Vitax Q4 planting after being topped Chairman Ted Perrin at the Southern Championships
Rothwell Grange Court, Rothwell Road, Kettering, Northamptonshire NN16 8FB. and tailed to reduce to 6"
www.nvsuk.org.uk
Website username: nvsmember • Website password: grower
49
Published by Crest Publications, 1 Rothwell Grange Court, Rothwell Road, Kettering, Northants NN16 8FB
Telephone: 01536 317000 • Email: jayne@crestpublications.com
The views expressed by the authors/contributors are not necessarily those of the editor, the Society, or its officers.
grow2eat.com
savings, benefits and discounts
51
Courgette ‘Venus’ is
growing away well and
already producing
4 simplyvegetables
Untitled-1 1 25/6/10 15:02:29
editor’s
have no nominations for either a Treasurer or Magazine own plants from non-regulated seeds would have I recently read that
Editor. We cannot function as a Society without the been considered criminals under this law, but the new the RHS, in conjunction
former, and the value of belonging to our Society by law has been amended to allow; with the University of
being a member would be much poorer without the 1. Home gardeners to save and swap unapproved Reading, has launched
ramblings
latter, in my humble opinion, so please give this some seed. as survey to better
serious thought. You will also notice that a number 2. Seed banks and heritage seed networks to be able understand how
of positions are up for annual re-election, and need to store and distribute unapproved seed. gardeners are reacting
proposers and seconders. If you feel able to propose 3. Individuals and small organisations to grow and to changes in the UK
or second any of the positions please contact the supply unapproved seed as long as they have less climate and to discover
general Secretary. than 10 employees or have an annual turnover of whether they have
On matters Financial, the Treasurer, on behalf of the less than 2m euros. been provided with the
Trustees has put together guidelines for Judges when The draft text of the law, has already been amended knowledge they need to
claiming for out of pocket expenses when judging several times due to a huge backlash from gardeners. plan their gardening in
Welcome to the summer edition of our quarterly shows. These are; The next step is to take the directive to the the future. The survey is
magazine, and my penultimate edition as your European parliament for modification or approval. intended to provide the
editor. It has been an interesting journey, and I have FINANCIAL GUIDELINES FOR JUDGES “This law will immediately stop the professional material for a follow up
enjoyed the experience, but it’s time to move on. 1. Fees – £30 development of vegetable varieties for home to the RHS’s 2002 report
Firstly an apology, when preparing the copy, 2. Travelling – 25p per mile car allowance or actual gardeners, organic growers, and small-scale market “Gardening in the Global
editing, etc., in readiness for my journey to Crest our 2nd class rail fare farmers,” said Ben Gabel, vegetable breeder and Greenhouse”, which Third; Nasturtium “Fruit Salad” from Thompson & Morgan
publishers, my lap top crashed. I took it to PC World 3. Bed & breakfast claim up to £50 per night director of The Real Seed Catalogue. “Home discussed potential
where they have a repair section who advised that it 4. Parking fees actual (not illegal parking fines) gardeners have really different needs – for example changes that gardens
was probably a virus, ran a health check, which did they grow by hand, not machine, and can’t or don’t and gardeners in the
not work, so they downloaded all the data onto their Notes want to use such powerful chemical sprays. There’s UK were likely to face,
system, totally wiped everything off the lap top, installed 1. Financial arrangements are the personal no way to register the varieties suitable for home use based on climate change
current operating software, (windows, excel etc.,) and responsibility of the judge to agree with the show as they don’t meet the strict criteria of the Plant Variety projections. According
then re-loaded my data back onto the machine, which organisers. These may vary from no charge to Agency, which is only concerned about approving the to recent climate
of course included all the copy for this issue. However accepting more generous than above rates if sort of seed used by industrial farmers.” models, the projections
the files were in no particular order, the machine offered. Virtually all plants, vegetable seeds and have changed and
Depending on wouldn’t talk to my printer, so it’s taken a few days to
get it back to a position where I can use it again.
2. Nvs recommendations are for guidance were no
terms are offered.
gardeners to eventually be registered by
government
UK gardeners may
well have to prepare
I am telling you this because the result is that I have 3. It is recommended that terms are agreed at the All governments are, of course, infatuated with the for a different set of
which side of the had to defer my visit to Crest, which in turn will cause time the booking is made. idea of registering everybody and everything. Under climatic conditions.
a delay in going to the printers, and therefore the 4. Bed & breakfast – judges may incur costs above Title IV of the proposed EU law: You may remember the
fence you sit, timescale to get it to you. So apologies that you may
be reading this a bit later than I would have liked.
the £50 per night but should use the guideline
unless previously agreed with the show organisers.
Title IV Registration of varieties in national and Union
registers. The varieties, in order to be made available
2002 report predicted
extremes of weather, i.e.
seems to create As mentioned in my April ramblings we were
fortunate in having four new series of articles viz;
5. In representing the National Vegetable Society as
a charity, we aim to recover necessary expenses
on the market throughout the Union, shall be included
in a national register or in the Union register via direct
warmer drier summers
and wetter milder
diametrically 1. What’s new in vegetable research by David
Thornton.
rather than charge professional rates.
Source : board of trustees
application procedure to the CVPO.
Gardeners must also pay fees to the EU
winters, with more exotic
plantings becoming the
2. Gardening, composting and wildlife by George 27th April 2013 bureaucracy for the registration of their seeds. Fees norm. Well they got that
opposing views… Pilkinton are £100 for seeds for amateur use to £1,000 for spectacularly wrong, so
3. Pests and diseases by our resident expert Mark Hall That’s the admin out of the way, commercial use per variety. we’ll wait and see what
4. Perennial Vegetables by David Wall. now for some news; While this law may initially only be targeted at they predict this time,
Part two of these series of articles appears within Congratulations to Ian Barbour of JBS Seed Potatoes commercial gardeners, it sets a precedent to sooner Don’t hold your breath.
these pages. of Annan, Dumfriesshire on breaking the world record or later go after home gardeners and require them to Finally, I was honoured Second; Clematis “Lemon Beauty” from Throncroft Clematis
If that were not enough, starting in this issue we are for a display of 667 varieties of heritage potatoes. abide by the same insane regulations. Big brother is to be asked to be one
fortunate in starting another two series of articles; The 66ft display at the Gardening Scotland Show near watching. of the judging panel
a. Herbs, their history and uses, by Sally Fleming and Edinburgh, held between 31st May and June 2nd, You may have also read in the gardening press to select the “Plant of
Richard Adams in Jersey, and recently broke the existing record of 589 varieties by recently that a range of pesticides known as the year” at the recent
b. “Growing Pains”, a series of articles by Adam (baby a significant margin, which itself was set in 2004 by Neonicotnoids have been banned from use for 2 centenary event of the
face) Greathead, who is the Secretary of the new Three Counties Potatoes. JBA are a good supporter of years from 1st December this year, following a vote Chelsea Flower Show.
West Midlands DA, from the younger member’s the NVS National Championships, providing the prize by a European committee. 15 out of 27 member For those interested the
perspective. money for two potato classes, using the varieties NVS states voted for the ban, Britain voted against, as it is final placings were as
I think you will enjoy both, I’m starting to spoil you Amour and NVS Sherine. waiting for further crucial field research to be finalised follows;
now! A big thank you to these new contributors. Ian said the display contained a total of 3,535 by DEFRA. Research has linked chemicals including Third; Nasturtium
Regretfully, Rob Foster’s son advised me that Rob potatoes, each having to be hand washed and imidacloprid, thiamethoxam and clothianidin as being “Fruit Salad”, from
is quite ill at the moment, so is unable to continue with polished which took 6 staff working solidly from possible causes of declining bee populations. Other Thompson & Morgan,
his two series of articles, “Jobs for the month in the 8 a.m. to 2 a.m. for two days to achieve. They still had neonics, namely thiacloprid and acetamiprid used to It’s sterile and therefore
Kitchen Garden”, and “The Budget Garden”. I am not another 100 varieties which could have been used, so tackle vine weevil grubs and other pests are unaffected long blooming with a
sure what the nature of his illness is but wish him well I suspect the record will not last long. Well done to all by the new ruling. spicy fragrance. The
for a speedy and full recovery. involved. Banned products include; Bayer Provado Lawn flowers are edible, so will
Derek Brooks, Gerry Edwards and Mick Poultney The NVS were involved with the RHS “Grow Your Grub Killer which contains Imidacloprid, Westland be a favourite with some
continue with their series of articles which are aimed Own Weekends” taking place at all 4 RHS gardens Plant Rescue Bug Killer for ornamental plants of the top chefs.
principally at the Kitchen gardener. over the week-end 23rd to 24th March. Essex DA containing thiamethoxam. Clothianidin is only available Second; losing out First; Mahonia eurybracteata ganpinensis “Soft Caress”
By the time you read these notes, a new book, were at Hyde hall and Surrey DA were at Wisley with in professional products. by just three votes was
“Getting Started on the Allotment”, will be at the their displays and advice stands. Please see Branch Bayer Provado Ultimate Bug Killer for Home garden Clematis “Lemon Beauty” from Throncroft Clematis,
printers; this is to complement our current book “ newsletters for a fuller report. use which contains thiacloprid is not affected. a spring flowering pale yellow, (looked cream to me)
Getting Started on the Show Bench”, i.e. the second Depending on which side of the fence you sit, grapefruit scented variety.
in what will hopefully become a series of books, Be careful what you sow? seems to create diametrically opposing views, as First Place; Mahonia eurybracteata ganpinensis
penned by our good friend Derek Brooks. Derek’s A new law proposed by the European Commission a spokesperson from Friends of the Earth was (trying saying that after two pints of Guinness). Variety
articles will continue to be published in “Simply Veg” would make it illegal to “grow, reproduce or trade” any reported as saying “this decision is a significant “Soft Caress”. Something quite different to other
as they are now, part 6 is included in this issue. vegetable seeds that have not been “tested, approved victory for common sense and our beleaguered bee mahonia varieties, instead of the leaves being hard
You will note that in the centre pages is a pull out and accepted” by a new EU bureaucracy named the populations”, whereas a spokesperson the HTA said, and spiny, they are evergreen, narrow and soft to the
section which includes the Annual accounts, report “EU Plant Variety Agency.” “there is no scientific evidence for the removal of these touch, hence the name.
of the Trustees, and AGM agenda, which you may It’s called the Plant Reproductive Material Law, and products for home use”. I couldn’t possibly comment, Definitely different, which is one of the judging
wish to take with you to the AGM in Harrogate. it attempts to put the government in charge of virtually but am reminded of the excellent article written by Ivor criteria and only grows to 1m high so said to be
Disappointingly, at the time of going to press, we still all plants and seeds. Home gardeners who grow their Mace in the Spring issue (page 57). good for pot culture, which is how is was shown. 20
6 simplyvegetables simplyvegetables 7
Strawberry, “Malling Centenary” from East Malling, Kent We appeared in 1960.
plants were put up for consideration, the only other since then, covering 5 or 6 shows a year. They have
edible was a new strawberry from East Malling, called exhibited at more than 170 shows and horticultural
“Malling Centenary”. events around the world, once even travelling to New
Lovely flavour, but not different enough to command Zealand
votes. One of the other criteria is that it has to have Each show display involves a great deal of
been launched since June 2012. preparation. Arthur grows over 80 varieties of
The NVS did get a mention, we were part of the time vegetables himself and carefully schedules his seed
line shown by Kings Seeds, which said; sowing timetable to ensure vegetables are at their
Kings Seeds exhibit. 125 Years of Vegetable very best for exhibition
Growing at different dates in the
A reflection on vegetable growing and seed retailing year. The produce for
over the last 125 years, both commercially and each display is carefully
privately. The display includes original equipment from lifted, cleaned and
1888 to the present day, examining how key events packed – a process
and lifestyle changes have impacted on gardening usually taking 3 days –
and influenced our attitudes as to what, where and before being transported
how we grow what we eat. The display also highlights to the show site. A
future seed production issues such as food miles and setting-up time of
sustainability. around 15 hours follows
The plant of the Centenary, chosen by public vote to make sure that the
from ten plants put forward, one from each of the last display is at its best.
10 decades was won by geranium “Rozanne”. Said to On the Thompson
flower for 6 months of the year from May to November, & Morgan stand at
bullet proof, super hardy, and will grow in pretty much the Suffolk Show this
any UK soil. Released in 2000. Second was a russell year, not only did
lupin released in 1939, from over 7,000 votes cast. visitors admire Arthur’s
The only other exhibit of predominately vegetables vegetable display, but Robinson’s impressive display of veg
was Robinson’s of Preston, but as we left on the the first 300 children to
Monday evening, the awards had not been put on the visit the stand received
exhibits, so I can’t tell you what awards were granted, a free packet of T&M’s
only to say that more gold medals were given out than ‘Butterfly Mix’ seed to
at any other Chelsea Flower show. sow at home.
Thompson & Morgan’s vegetable ‘show man’, Having experienced
Arthur Davies, staged his last impressive vegetable one of the coldest and
display at the Suffolk Show in Ipswich on 29th and wettest Springs for
30th May, before hanging up his trowel for good at the many years, with most
end of this show season. plants at least one
After over four decades of growing and exhibiting month behind where
vegetables, winning an amazing 164 Gold Medals in they should be at this
the process, Arthur has decided to finally retire and time of year, I do hope
to concentrate on his other pastimes, namely time- your gardening year is
keeping at major athletic events and his grandsons’ successful.
burgeoning football careers. Happy gardening.
Arthur’s career as an expert vegetable grower began David.
42 years ago when he was challenged by the great
Percy Thrower, possibly the first TV gardener, to exhibit
his vegetables with the professional growers at the
Shrewsbury Show after spotting Arthur’s talent in the
amateur section. Percy encouraged Arthur to ‘have a
go’ in the professional tent and he won a gold medal
in the first year. He has gone on to win the ‘Large This shot was taken on the Waitrose and NFU display, almost
takes exhibiting veg to an art form, but stunning all the same. All
Gold Medal’ for the next 39 years at the show. Arthur colour themed, who could have thought that white cabbage could
and his wife, Mary have been exhibiting every year look so attractive as part of the white area.
8 simplyvegetables simplyvegetables 9
Freezing Fruits From the
and Vegetables Kitchen
Mary Thomas, Welsh Branch By Mary Thomas and
Linda Hargrave
Every grower will have a glut of vegetables or fruit your freezer capacity is considered as one batch.
at some point and preserving these for winter use Prepare carefully. Prepare according to kind, e.g. shell Once defrosted, use immediately as the bacteria is Spaghetti with Tomatoes
gives great pleasure. Jams, pickles and chutneys are peas, slice beans, cut cauliflowers into florets etc. and only made dormant and not killed on freezing – they
amongst my favourites, but there is only a certain do not let to stand around longer than necessary as they become active again at room temperature. and olives – Linda
amount of these that one requires. Freezing is an lose flavour and nutrition when left exposed to air. Cut To blanch or not to blanch. Originally, this was 200 gms wholemeal spaghetti
excellent alternative. July, August and September into even sized pieces.Small fruits need only be cleaned, considered to be very important for the high 3 cloves garlic
sees us with an ample supply of all beans, peas, top and tailed and frozen whole, preferably on a tray. temperature to kill off the enzymes, but these days 40 gms black olives cut in half
tomatoes, peppers and many more, but they are Freeze quickly. Use the fast freeze compartment or shelf a growing number of people I know don’t bother. Sliver of chilli
so delicious young and fresh that you need not if you have one and some freezers have a fast freeze Personally, I feel that a lot of flavour and nutrients 500 Gms of tomatoes, chopped, or 1 cup slow
do anything more than lightly boil or steam or use button to lower the temperature even more. Also freeze are lost in the process as the foods are exposed to roasted tomato puree.
in salads. Now is the perfect time to freeze any in small containers of useable portions or thin layers. It is large quantities of water. I prefer to pick when young Grated cheese
surplus which you will find very useful in the bleak a good idea to freeze on trays and then package into a and tender, freeze immediately, in good quality bag, Boil the spaghetti for 10 mins. Gently fry the garlic
mid-winter. Whilst I am not a great fan of frozen container or polythene bag so that you have a free flow removing as much air as possible and sealing well. and chilli
vegetables, they are excellent for use in cooked of fruits or vegetables. If you freeze smaller portions in Storage life. Fresh foods are usually right for almost Add the chopped tomatoes or tomato puree and
dishes. (more recipes in January Edition) individual bags, give them a shake once or twice during 12months, even after that, they do not present any olives
The object of preservation is to halt the freezing to avoid them freezing into one solid lump. If health risks, just loss of flavour, colour and texture. Salt Simmer for 5 minutes. Drain the spaghetti, stir in
natural process that makes food unfit for food is frozen slowly, large ice crystals will form spoiling and fats lessen storage life and may cause the food to the tomato mixture.
human consumption. This is due, partly, to the texture of the vegetables. Moisture in the food turn rancid. Cooked dishes are best used within about Divide between to pasta bowls and sprinkle over
the action of enzymes in the food and partly expands on freezing, rupturing the surrounding cell walls. 6 months. (another reason to label clearly) the grated cheese
the growth of micro-organisms. Enzymes are The food will then collapse on thawing, letting the juices NB the olives will be salty so do not add salt to the tomato mixture.
most active in warm conditions but killed by and flavour escape. Fast freezing produces smaller ice Some of my favourites Optional 2 tsps of capers can be added if available.
very high heat (as in bottling and canning), crystals and less expansion. Tomatoes As mentioned earlier, water or moisture This recipe is good when the tomatoes are well flavoured, Sungella or Sungold
their action slows down at temperatures of Use good quality packaging. Thin bags may split in in foods expand on freezing. The higher the water are particularly good. It is also a good way of using excess if you slow roast them
below 5°C (refrigeration) and dormant below storage especially if stored alongside meats with bone content, the more expansion that is produced causing and freeze for winter.
-0°C (freezing) Micro-organisms are present in. Exposure to air may cause them to dry out, loose the food to collapse on thawing. Tomatoes fall into this Note. To make slow roasted tomato puree, put tomatoes on a tray, sprinkle
in all normal surroundings and multiply and colour or cross-contaminate smells and flavours. Rigid category and although can be frozen whole, they are over a pinch of brown sugar, salt, pepper and a drizzle of good quality oil.
grow under normal conditions.These fall containers with tight fitting lids are ideal and stack for only suitable for cooking after defrosting. When time is Roast at 100°C for 1.5 hours. Process in a liquidizer and sieve to remove
into three categories – bacteria, yeast and easy storage. Fill containers to within 1cm from the a problem, I just remove stalks, bag and freeze whole. seeds and skin.
moulds and again can be made dormant top, allowing only enough room for expansion. On a better day, I prefer to roast them first.
ato wedges1 –tspLi nda
at -0°C(-18°C for long storage), killed at Recycled ice cream or margarine containers are Roasted tomatoes: Cut in half and arrange in a roasting Spicy Potpee led and cut into cum in seed (jeehra)
boiling point as well as in acidic conditions ideal, but remember to wash thoroughly first. Exclude tin, cut side up. Tuck a few pieces of onion, and a few 500gms potatoes ¼ tsp chilli powder
(vinegar in chutneys), high sugar content as much air as possible from bags before sealing. cloves of garlic between them, Add a few sprigs of wedges
bs 1 tsp sweet paprika
(jams and chutneys) and salting (beans). There is a machine for this purpose, but rather herbs of your choice and drizzle some olive oil over 2 tablespoons breadcrum ½ tsp salt.
By destroying or halting the action expensive. I had one given many years ago and I find them. Roast in a hot oven about 200°C until slightly 2 cloves garlic grated. 2 tablespoons oil
see d
of enzymes and micro-organisms food it very useful. charred around the edges. This will take about ½ hour. 1tsp ground coriander tato wedges in
(fan oven), cook the po
is preserved, but it also important to Label clearly. Some stick-on labels are prone to come Leave to cool and then slip off the skins and pack the Set the oven to 200°C s on hig h po wer. Mix all
6 minute
prevent the re-entry of these during storage. This can off in storage. A freezer labelling pen is ideal. It can be flesh, onions, garlic and any juices into containers. a microwave steamer for the potatoes
a mixing bowl, add
be done by careful wrapping and sealing of food. used to write directly on to the packaging. Margarine tubs are ideal for this. One 250g size can be the other ingredients in k unt il the mix ture coats
h a for
During the 19th century, preserving was considered Thawing. Peas, beans or any small pieces of used to replace one tin of tomatoes in any recipe. to the bowl and stir wit y and roa st for 15
to a baking tra
a very skilled craft, but became less popular in the vegetables are best cooked from frozen in small the potatoes. Transfer
20th century as many homes in this era had less quantity of boiling water. This ensures that maximum Herbs minutes until crispy. a salad.
yoghurt and chives and
storage space. The growth of the commercial market flavour, texture and nutrients have been conserved. Again pick when young and fresh, ideally when dry and Serve with plain Greek
was another contributory factor. Importing fruit and Larger quantities, such as soups should be thawed early morning before the sun appears on them. This is
vegetables now meant that fresh supplies were slowly, ideally in the refrigerator overnight. This helps when they are most pungent. To avoid taking up too
available all the year round. to keep the texture smooth and conserve the flavour. much storage space, chop and pack into ice cube
Use some of your blackc
By the early 1960s deep freezers started to appear trays. When frozen, tip into a strong bag, label and tie. urrants now
in many homes and by the 1970s bottling and pickling One cube can then be defrosted as required. Chives, and prepare for Christ
mas:
became rare and deep freezing became the most or leaves left whole, can simply be packed into a small
popular method of dealing with surplus fruits and rigid container. Shake once or twice during freezing and
Cassis – Mary
vegetables. It still remains popular today. you then have free-flowing herbs to use as required. 1kg blackcurrants
500ml brandy
Some Basic Rules Fruits 500gms sugar
Choose quality. Pick your vegetables when young Small soft fruits are best frozen on trays and then Wash the currants, then top
and tender. If they have passed their best, they will packed into bags or containers. Gooseberries and and tail. Put in a clean jar with
a lid (old fashioned sweet jar
not magically improve on freezing. Certain nutrients, currants freeze really well and only require a short time is ideal) and crush lightly with
potato masher to break the a
especially Vitamin C, start depleting as soon as the to defrost. Raspberries and strawberries are not quite skins.
Pour over the Brandy and put
vegetables are separated from the plant. Also, to as successful. It is important not to defrost for too long the lid on. Leave in a cool,
10 weeks then strain through dark place for 8 –
develop those nutrients, the fruits and vegetables need as they will lose their texture and flavour will also be a fine muslin cloth. Do not squ
drip naturally so as to get a eeze, but allow to
to ripen on the plant which adds to the advantage of lost in the juice. clear liquid
Pour back into the jar and add
freezing your own-grown produce. Another advantage is shaking the jar every now and the sugar. Leave again in a
dar
the control of sprays and chemicals used in the growing. Other vegetables then until the sugar is complet k, cool place,
Stand for about 2–3 weeks. ely dissolved.
Quantities. Do not freeze large quantities at a time. Peas, beans and cauliflowers are also very successful Put into sterilized bottles and
used at this stage, but imp label. This can be
Allow enough time for one batch to freeze throughout but I do prefer to use them in ‘dishes’ rather than as a roves on keeping. It will kee
p indefinitely.
before adding more. As a rough guide, one-tenth of side vegetable. (more recipes in January issue)
10 simplyvegetables simplyvegetables 11
Selling everything you need for
editor’s postbag your garden or allotment, offering
great quality and value for money
The mail order Fruit & Vegetable Company
Broccoli disaster
Dear David,
A Society for all.? D.T. Brown are an experienced fruit and vegetable specialist, established over 100 years ago, and we know
our stuff! Our reputation is based on quality and, as we supply only by mail order, we offer great value
This is a letter on an interesting point. With regards to Mike Osborn’s letter ours! When I’ve mentioned that they plus interesting, unusual varieties. We are more than just seed suppliers though as we offer a full range of
My spring hearting broccoli was a disaster in 2012; in the Winter 2013 SV about whether might consider joining the NVS the
nothing appeared. Perhaps it was due to late sowing; the NVS is doing enough to recruit standard response goes along the lines
potatoes, onions, garlic, soft fruit and tree fruit – all you could want for your grow your own garden!
but not later than normal as I reckon to plant out when new members I would like to suggest of “Oh I grow my veg to eat not fill it full
the last of the summer peas have been taken up. once again that the NVS is beating of steroids to win a few quid at my local
Another possibility is that I gave the plants too little itself up way too much over the issue show”, and believe me when I say that
fertiliser in the autumn of 2011, or it was too dry in the of grow your own and its seeming lack no amount of explanation about the
Spring of 2012. Well, as I had the space, I just left my of attraction to the kitchen gardener. true aims of the NVS will turn them from
plants in for another year; they grew stems like small Perhaps the NVS does have this image those views. So what I’m saying is why
trees and with some netting survived the attacks of of being a society for the showman, bother trying?
our local pigeons. This spring they produced heads cloth-capped, working-class and A few minutes on the internet tells
like footballs, although sadly, as is common with male dominated but a quick glance me that there approximately 70 cities
cauliflowers, they all appeared together. It was worth through many of the fresh(ish!) faces in the UK, 2000 towns and 4500
the experiment. If you have a lot of space then it might of the regular contributors in SV would villages with 20,000 or less residents.
be an idea to sow and plant out quite late and leave suggest this is far from the truth. Yes If we assume that only 25% of those
the plants to grow for a whole year. we can offer something to the grower have an annual show, where there
John Murrell who is only interested in putting good may be half a dozen or more regular
quality produce onto his kitchen contributors it equates to a potential
table and we can all learn from each 5,000–10,000 new members. Shouldn’t
Allotment other but whether we like it or not the
majority of active members do tend
to be drawn from the exhibitor ranks,
this be where we pitch our marketing
efforts and where we may have a better
chance of success in attracting new
standard
Dear Mr. Allison
so I’m concerned that the tone of the
words of the Chairman and down may
drive them away in future. Instead, I
feel we should be looking at another
recruits? I still come across people
at my local shows that have become
mad keen on showing who have never
heard of the NVS but who don’t take
J. Attridge’s letter on Page 14 of the Spring issue strategy designed to increase the much persuading to join once they
cannot go unchallenged. amount of members from among those do. As far as I can make out the NVS
It is true that some people, for a variety of reasons, who like to exhibit their vegetables. was started by people who enjoyed
prefer to have a half-size allotment and their wishes I look in on many online forums and showing off the size and quality of
should be met so far as circumstances permit. I’m sorry to report that the NVS holds their vegetables, it has certainly been
J Attridge also makes a valid point that a good many little or no appeal for the young mum maintained for 50 years, in the main, by
en tir e ra ng e on lin e at w w w .d tbrownseeds.co.uk
View our
new starters give up when they discover how much who tends her allotment to feed her exhibitors, and it is my firm belief that
ount online today!
work is needed on an allotment, but to suggest halving family and a bit of outdoor exercise, its survival depends on it appealing first
allotments as a means of reducing or clearing waiting or the chap who treats his allotment and foremost to the very same type of
de D1 32 NV 4 an d ge t 15 % di sc
lists is playing straight into the hands of local councils
that are eager to evade their legal responsibility to
as an escape from his daily working
life. It might be hard to accept but it’s
people.
Narked of Loughborough Quote co
provide allotments. The standard size allotment is a fact the likes of the National Society Simon Smith
just that – a standard, and where it can be shown of Allotment and Leisure Gardeners Thanks Simon for your thoughts, I N
that more allotments are needed, local councils have are much more likely to appeal to do try to include articles etc., that will Sign up for our Online EW Get our latest
a responsibility which they should not be allowed to
ignore.
these people. Indeed, many find all the
information they need from an online
appeal to all types of growers whether
for the show plate or kitchen plate, so exclusive offers Garden Planner ! catalogue
Thank you for an excellent magazine.
Bob Hodson
forum on its own, and therefore don’t
have to spend a single sausage on the
the we are attractive to as wide a range
of growers as possible. What do other and news
membership of any society let alone members think– ed. Fruit & Vegeta
ble Company
The mail order
Fruit &
Vegetables
Pesticides 2013
0845 371 0532
Dear David, the Milton Keynes area and in almost every issue of our bi-annual • FREE Trial See
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er
I read the article by Ivor Mace in the Spring Issue with great newsletter I was having to notify our members of yet more products with every ord
els
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interest and I totally agree with his views. Not only are amateur being withdrawn. Traditional and effective products disappeared • FREE Trial Pot
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into believing all the promotional and marketing, much of efficacy. I wonder if the current situation leads to some newer
which implies that there are new wonder treatments for all their
horticultural ills. There has been no other consistently reliable
and easily accessible source of information available to the
allotment holders feeling despondent when their lovingly tended
crops are devastated by pests or diseases for which there were
effective remedies years ago. As an aside, has anybody ever been
to request your FREE catalogue quoting D132NV4
amateur, that provided by the Pesticides Control Agency (or prosecuted for using one of the withdrawn products? lines open 8am-8pm 7 days a week
Regards,
www.dtbrownseeds.co.uk
whatever it is called now) was until recently almost unintelligible
so I’m very grateful to Ivor for publicising the RHS data sheets. Alan Jennings, Drayton Parslow, Milton Keynes.
Until recently, I was a buyer for a large allotment association in or visit
12 simplyvegetables * Discount offer is for first order only and is limited to one per household. Please quote D132NV4 when ordering
ordering
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Digging made easy
Backsaver Autospade
News from the Trustees
- ideal for the vegetable gardener! Mark Hall, National Assistant Secretary
The beauty of this tool is you dig from a
standing position: there is no need to bend to
lift and turn the soil. Take a spit; pull back on
the handle bar and a large spring at the base of
Barry Newman chaired the meeting on the 27th April web site. A quotation for placing leaflets in the Kitchen
the shaft acts to throw the soil forward. 2013. The meeting had been moved from the long Garden Magazine for recruitment, (which will go out
standing venue of Preston to The Ramada Encore in the September issue – out early August – this year)
Dig without the strain of bending and at twice
the normal speed.
Hotel, Crewe Business Park, Crewe. Trustees were was agreed by Trustees.
• Twice the speed
impressed with this new venue. The meeting room David Allison reported that the ‘Bumper’ spring
was well laid out which led to an excellent meeting edition of Simply Vegetables has been received well
• No back strain
with all Trustees agreeing that the venue encouraged and hopefully the extra cost will be covered by the
• Less effort
a much more constructive meeting. advertising in the magazine. David gave out quotation
Barry thanked the Treasurer Derek Aldred for the figures for the cost of printing the proposed new book,
Backsaver Twinn comprehensive reports that he had circulated prior ‘Getting started on the allotment’. This book should be
- ideal for the flower bed! to the meeting. They showed the Society accounts available later in the year at a cover price of £3.99.
The Backsaver Twinn is a two handle spade that in a full and concise way. Derek then guided Trustees Ian Stocks reported that everything is going well
allows you to dig without bending. Available as a through the accounts of 2012, answering all with the web site. There are a few more horticultural
border spade it’s light and simple to use. It will questions raised by the Trustees. The accounts were related adverts helping to cover some of the running
remove the strain of bending and allow you to
unanimously accepted in full by the Trustees. costs of the web site. The forum has gone quiet
keep pottering in the garden.
Due to the clarity of the report Trustees noted recently; maybe more people are in the garden at
Contact us below or see the video of the spades the amount of money within the Society, being held this time of year and it will pick up again in the winter
in action at www.backsavergardentools.co.uk.
by some District Associations and Branches was months. The idea of a ‘virtual District Association’ was
The treasurer relatively large. The treasurer explained that this
was not necessarily a good position to be in from a
raised and this maybe something that the Strategic
working group could look into and advise the Trustees
charity commission’s point of view. Trustees debated on how it may benefit the society in the future.
Backsaver Garden Tools Ltd explained that this the degree to which District Associations should be Trustees noted that two key officers would not be
16 The Sidings, Station Road, Guiseley, Leeds, LS20 8BX encouraged to spend on our charitable objectives. It seeking re-election at this year’s AGM (Treasurer and
Tel: 01943 870486 Email: info@backsavergardentools.co.uk was not necessarily was agreed that Branches should be made aware of
Trustees concerns.
Magazine editor).
Trustees were reminded of the Data protection rules
a good position to be Derek had circulated a paper prior to the meeting
entitled a Guide to Judges Expenses and travel
and implications for the Society. Guidelines have been
circulated to all Trustees prior to the meeting. Trustees
Buy online at:
Tel. 01282 501252 Email. info@robinsonpolytunnels.co.uk www.backsavergardentools.co.uk in from a charity allowances. Trustees agreed to accept this as a
guideline, which is intended to help judges and show
agreed that membership details would remain within
the Society and only given out in Simply Vegetables
organizers. Copies of the Guide can be found on the or on the web site unless the member withdrew their
commission’s point NVS web site. consent.
Neil Hope was pleased to report that membership John Branham reported on the recent Edible
Backsaver Garden Tools.indd 1 17/12/2012 15:03:46 of view. is still steadily increasing each year; the Marshalls
recruitment drive that was set up earlier in the year
Garden Show held at Stoneleigh Warwick on 15th to
17th March. Despite the show being a success, figures
has gone well and boosted membership. This was showed that the event was not really cost effective for
a system where leaflets were put into all vegetable the Society; however this event is to move for 2014. To
related orders from Marshalls seeds inviting customers be held at the Alexandra Place London.
to join the NVS. It was also noted that 13% of Mark.
members joining or renewing have done so on the
Caption competition results Caption competition response, Simon Smith.
Ok Gerald, so we proved we can both
fit in them but one of us will have to get
out of Medwyn’s trousers otherwise we’ll
never get these carrots staged.
I like Gerald’s carrot, and I also like
David’s carrot, but which one do I like
best? There’s only one way to find out….
fiiiiiiight!
No mate, I can’t see that viaduct they’re
all on about either!
This is your fault Thornton. When you
told me Channel 4 wanted to film us I
thought I was signing up for Come Dine
with Me. I’m bloody starving now!
Brilliant idea Gerald. Just hope Graeme
Watson doesn’t realise it’s us that’s
pinched two of his staged carrots!
14 simplyvegetables simplyvegetables 15
Getting Started On
The Allotment
Part six
Derek Brooks, Worsley Manchester. Northern Branch.
This is the sixth article in a series intended to help grown especially for planting and are free of virus
anyone who has got or about to get an allotment diseases. Garden centres usually have a reasonable
for the first time and assuming they are new to choice but you are likely to get a wider selection from a
gardening. seed company. Also many horticultural societies like the
So far in this series I have covered all the general one I belong to buy them in bulk and sell them to their
topics concerned with growing vegetables on the members and these are likely to be much cheaper.
allotment – tools, watering, composting, weeds, crop
rotation, soil preparation, fertilisers and pests and Types
I think that diseases.
I am now going to cover the individual vegetables or
There are three types of potatoes according to when
they crop—first earlies, second earlies (sometimes
bone at about 4 oz. per square yard (130 gms. per
square metre)
heap, unless they are diseased. When digging up the
tubers use a fork rather than a spade. Try to get it right
potatoes are just groups of vegetables that you are likely to be growing. called early maincrops) and maincrops (sometimes
called lates)
Planting is normally begun in late March with the first
earlies and continuing through April ending with the
underneath and lift them all together. Don’t push the
fork in too near to what remains of the haulms or you
POTATOES Some varieties are classed as “salad potatoes”. maincrops. When planting I dig out a trench about 9 may pierce some of the tubers. I always try to avoid this
about the easiest I think that potatoes are just about the easiest These are rather smaller than other varieties, of waxy inches deep (23 cm.) and put a layer of lawn mowings but no matter how careful I am I always damage a few
vegetables for beginners to grow. texture and can be eaten cold. in the bottom and plant on top of this. This helps to tubers. If you do damage some they are still usable but
vegetables for Ground preparation Chitting
combat a disease called scab. Garden compost or
used potting compost can also be put in if you have
use them right away because they won’t keep.
When you start to harvest depends on how large
beginners to grow. You will see from the article on crop rotation that I grow
potatoes in a bed of their own because they prefer a
You need to buy your potatoes as soon as they are
available, usually in January or February. You should
any spare. It is also a good idea to sprinkle some slug
pellets in the trenches. The soil from the second trench
you want your tubers. If you want what are called” new
potatoes” you can start to harvest the earlies in June.
lower pH than other vegetables, about 5 or 6. This is start them into growth by standing them upright in is used to fill up the first one. Obviously the longer they are left in the ground the
because a higher pH encourages a disease called scab. trays without soil or compost. Egg boxes are ideal For earlies the trenches can be 18 in. to 24 in. larger they will be. Perhaps you could remove some
The bed is dug over in the winter and manure is for this. This is referred to as “chitting”. The growing (45cm. to 60 cm.) apart and the potatoes 12 in. (30 soil from the side of one of the ridges and see if the
forked into the soil. No lime or limestone is added shoots arise from small depressions called “eyes”. If cm.) apart in the rows. Plant them the same way up as tubers are large enough, or just dig up one plant. You
because this raises the ph. you examine a potato you will see that they are mostly they have been in the boxes with the shoots at the top don’t need to dig up all the crop at once. You can just
at one end and they should be stood with these at and do not remove any of the shoots. Maincrops are in dig them up when you need them.
Buying the “seed” the top. The trays should be stood in a light frost free the ground longer and take up more room. In this case If you dig up all the crop at once you have of course
Potatoes for planting are known as “seed potatoes” place. I put mine on a shelf in a cold greenhouse or on the rows can be 24in. to 30 in. (60cm. to 75 cm.) apart to find somewhere to store it. On the other hand the
although technically they are not “seed” It is important a windowsill in the spare bedroom. and the potatoes 15 in. (38 cm.) apart. longer they are left in the ground the more susceptible
to only buy them from a reliable source such as a they are to pests and diseases which we will discuss
garden centre or a specialist supplier, like a seed Planting Growing on later.
company. Those from a greengrocer or supermarket A few weeks before planting rake into the soil some Within a few weeks the shoots (now referred to as In the case of maincrops, they are not usually
will not do. Those from a specialist supplier have been general fertiliser such as growmore or fish, blood and haulms) will be through the soil. They will not stand harvested till September or October and are then
frost which may be a risk if the potatoes were planted stored for winter use. Earlies can also be stored and
in March. It is usual to draw soil round these shoots mine normally last till Christmas. This is because some
to protect them from frost. This is referred to as are not dug up till August.
“earthing up “.This process also ensures that the One final point about digging up potatoes is that it is
growing tubers are not exposed to light. If plants are important to try to dig them all up and not leave some
not earthed up some of the potatoes may appear at in the ground. I dig over the plot at least twice but I
or near the surface. If potatoes are exposed to light always miss some. If some are left in the ground they
they become green and are poisonous. If we get
a spell of dry weather they will need watering, the
could lead to disease problems. Even if they don’t,
because of crop rotation they will come up among the Potatoes can be
plants will in time begin to flower. When this happens following crop the next year which we don’t want.
it will tell you that the potatoes are almost ready for Potatoes can be stored in wooden or cardboard stored in wooden or
harvesting. If the flowers are left on they will eventually boxes or hessian sacks. Do not use plastic sacks
form fruits. They look like small green tomatoes which
is natural because they belong to the same family.
because they will cause them to rot. They need to be
kept in a cool dark place. It must be dark or they will
cardboard boxes or
However, don’t think you can eat them because they
are poisonous. I think it is better to remove the flowers
turn green, and green potatoes are poisonous..You
need to examine them every so often to see if any are
hessian sacks. Do
before they form fruits. After all you want the plants to
devote their energy to the production of tubers and not
rotting. If you do find any, remove them or the rot will
spread to others. not use plastic sacks
fruits that you can’t eat.
If the soil was well prepared before planting and Pests and diseases because they will
fertiliser added the plants should not need a lot of extra There are several pests and diseases that can attack
feeding. However it may be helpful to give them a liquid
feed such as maxicrop in May and another in June.
potatoes. I don’t want to put you off though because
many are uncommon. However there are a few that
cause them to rot.
you should be aware of.
Harvesting and storage They can get aphids (greenfly) which I have said
When harvesting your crop, cut down the haulms to earlier can transmit virus as well as weaken the plants.
Potatoes chitting on a greenhouse shelf just above soil level and put them on the compost I have never had them in sufficient numbers to cause a
16 simplyvegetables simplyvegetables 17
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