June Update

The tail end of May has reminded us of the invisible chill which has accompanied the increasing power of sun. While some rain has fallen it has really just been the remnants from passing fronts. Just a little hail which is evidenced by a few cut leaves, nothing more. Warmer daytimes and less of a temperature difference between midday and sunrise would boost everything.

Although ahead of 6th June, it is clear  that a useful set of apples through most varieties , except for Tydeman’s Late Orange in particular, are presenting. At the moment an early start to picking is not envisaged.

Plums are another matter, rather patchy and generally light cropping.

Our few cherries will struggle with the cold winds of the recent days. A sign that they have given up is a change to a dull brown-green shade, during the next fortnight, before falling off – not even of interest to the pigeons!

Sales at the farm are just beginning with some spring greens and mixed salad. It will be a while before beetroot are of a size worth pulling. Our french beans are very behind – not flowering yet – early July will see them launch . Tomatoes are likewise retarded and it will be August , probably, before they are available.

So a message of the need for patience, much better than to be suffering from extremes of heat. Some rain now will prepare for that possibilty  later.

An information sheet for those of you nationwide is being drafted and will be issued early in July.

Those of you close enough for our local delivery scheme around Colchester each Friday are welcome to contact us for further details of what might be available – it varies each week.