April Newsletter

Jobs to do in the garden in April

Essential Tasks to Prepare Your Garden for Spring . . .

April marks the transition from the last frosts of winter to the warmer days of spring. Due to the unusually warm weather we have had gardens and wildlife are thriving but that also means the weeds are on the war path too! Here are some essential tasks to keep your garden thriving:

Sowing and Planting

·       Vegetables: Direct sow seeds of carrots, beetroot, lettuce, and radishes. Plant out potatoes and onions, and sowing beans and peas can begin.

  ·       Flowers: Plant summer-flowering bulbs such as gladioli, lilies, and dahlias. Sow hardy annuals like cosmos, marigolds, and sunflowers directly into the ground. 

  ·       Ensure you harden off any greenhouse grown plants before planting out.  A cold frame is ideal but you can also use glass cloches.

General Maintenance 

·       Weeding: Keep on top of emerging weeds. Regularly hoe or hand-pull them to prevent them from taking over.

  ·       Mulching: Apply mulch around borders, trees, and shrubs to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.

  ·       Watering: Ensure new plantings are well-watered, especially if the weather is dry.

  ·       Pruning: Prune spring-flowering shrubs after they have finished blooming to maintain their shape and encourage healthy growth.

Lawn Care

·       Mowing: Start mowing your lawn regularly, setting the blades higher initially, then gradually lowering them as the weather warms up.

  ·       Edging: Redefine the edges of your lawn to keep it looking neat and tidy.

  ·       Aerating: Aerate compacted areas of your lawn to improve drainage and encourage root growth.

  ·       Feeding: Apply a spring lawn feed to promote lush, green growth. 

Wildlife Care  

Cleaning: Clean out debris from ponds and water features. Check and repair any pumps or filters.

  ·       Birds: Continue to provide food and fresh water for birds. Clean and disinfect feeders regularly.

  ·       Insects: Encourage beneficial insects by planting a variety of nectar-rich flowers.

  ·       Frogs and Toads: Provide shallow water sources such as ponds and birdbaths to attract amphibians.  If you don’t have a pond, a bucket will do but you need to ensure they have a means of escape.

  Greenhouse and Indoor Plants

·       Ventilation: Increase ventilation in greenhouses on warmer days to prevent overheating.

  ·       Pest Control: Keep an eye out for pests and diseases, treating them promptly to prevent spread.

  ·       Seedlings: Pot on seedlings into larger containers as they grow, to ensure they have enough space and nutrients.

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The Anti-Inflammatory Properties of Pineapples

Pineapples are not just delicious but also packed with numerous health benefits. Among their many virtues, pineapples are particularly celebrated for their anti-inflammatory properties. Understanding these properties can offer valuable insights into how incorporating pineapples into your diet can contribute to better health and wellness.

  The Nutritional Profile of Pineapples  

Pineapples are a rich source of vitamins, minerals, and enzymes. They contain vitamin C, vitamin B6, manganese, and dietary fiber, which collectively support various bodily functions. However, the key component responsible for pineapples' anti-inflammatory properties is an enzyme called bromelain and is found in the pineapple stem, fruit, and juice.

The anti-inflammatory properties of bromelain contribute to several health benefits:

  ·       Reduced Inflammation and Swelling:  conditions such as arthritis, sinusitis, and minor injuries. It can help alleviate pain and improve mobility.

  ·       Improved Digestion:  beneficial for individuals with digestive disorders. It can help reduce symptoms of bloating, gas, and indigestion.

  ·       Enhanced Recovery: can support post-surgical recovery and reduce inflammation and bruising following surgical procedures. It can help speed up the healing process.

  ·       Support for Respiratory Health:  can help reduce symptoms of asthma, bronchitis, and other respiratory conditions.

While bromelain is the primary anti-inflammatory compound in pineapples, the fruit also contains other beneficial nutrients that contribute to its overall anti-inflammatory effects:

  ·       Vitamin C: Pineapples are rich in vitamin C, a potent antioxidant that helps to neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative stress in the body. By combating oxidative stress, vitamin C plays a role in reducing inflammation.

  ·       Manganese: Manganese is an essential mineral that supports various enzymatic reactions in the body. It has antioxidant properties and helps to reduce inflammation by supporting the body's natural defense mechanisms.

  ·       Dietary Fibre: The fibre content in pineapples aids in digestive health and helps to regulate inflammation in the gut. A healthy gut is crucial for maintaining overall inflammation levels in the body.

Incorporating Pineapples into Your Diet  

To reap the anti-inflammatory benefits of pineapples, consider incorporating them into your diet in various forms:

  ·       Fresh Pineapple: Enjoy fresh pineapple slices as a snack or add them to fruit salads, smoothies, and desserts.

  ·       Pineapple Juice: Drink fresh pineapple juice or use it as a base for tropical beverages. Be mindful of added sugars in commercial pineapple juices.

  ·       Pineapple in Cooking: Use pineapple chunks in savoury dishes such as stir-fries, salsas, and marinades to add a sweet and tangy flavour while benefiting from its anti-inflammatory properties. 

Growing Pineapples in the UK

Growing pineapples in the UK may seem like a daunting task due to our cooler climate, but with the right care and conditions, it is entirely possible. Pineapples are tropical plants that thrive in warm, sunny environments. Here are some detailed steps and tips to successfully grow pineapples in the UK:

 Choosing the Right Pineapple Plant

Start by selecting a healthy pineapple plant or crown from a fresh pineapple. Look for a plant with strong, green leaves and avoid any that show signs of disease or decay. If using a pineapple crown, cut the top off the fruit, leaving about an inch of flesh attached. Remove the lower leaves to expose the stem.

  Preparing the Soil  

Pineapples require well-draining soil with a pH level between 4.5 and 6.5. You can achieve this by mixing garden soil with sand, perlite, or a cactus soil mix. Ensure the soil is loose and aerated to prevent waterlogging. 

Planting the Pineapple

Plant the pineapple crown or plant in a pot or container that is at least 12 inches deep. This will provide enough space for the roots to grow. Bury the stem up to the base of the leaves and water thoroughly. Position the pot in a sunny location, ideally where it will receive at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.

Watering and Fertilizing

Pineapples need consistent moisture but should not be overwatered. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry, and ensure the pot has good drainage to prevent root rot. Fertilize the plant every month during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer or a slow-release granular fertilizer.

Temperature and Humidity

Pineapples prefer temperatures between 18°C and 30°C. In the UK, it is best to grow pineapples indoors or in a greenhouse where you can control the temperature and humidity. If growing outdoors, bring the plant inside during colder months to protect it from frost. 

Propagation and Growth

Pineapples take time to grow and usually require 18 to 24 months to produce fruit. During this period, ensure the plant receives plenty of sunlight, water, and nutrients. Pineapples can be propagated using slips or suckers that grow from the base of the plant. These can be removed and planted in separate containers once they are large enough.

 Harvesting  

Once the pineapple plant has produced fruit, it is ready for harvesting when the fruit turns golden yellow and emits a sweet fragrance. Cut the fruit close to the base and it will continue to grow and may produce more fruit in the future.

Common Issues and Solutions

  ·       Pests: Watch out for common pests such as mealybugs, aphids, and spider mites. Treat infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil.

·       Diseases: Pineapples may suffer from root rot or fungal diseases. Prevent these by ensuring proper drainage and avoiding overwatering.

·       Yellowing Leaves: This can be a sign of nutrient deficiency or overwatering. Adjust your fertilizing and watering schedule accordingly.

Our pineapples are coming on nicely!

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Sweet Treat . . .

Wishing all who celebrate, a Happy Easter!  

To be honest, whether you celebrate the Easter season or not, it's a time rife with temptation for anyone watching their weight or sugar intake!  Here's a healthier alternative yet just as delicious recipe that can rival (& possibly better!) many a chocolate easter egg...gluten-free / dairy free / vegan...extremely moreish...enjoy!

Fruit & Nut Chocolate Fudge

•  225g almond butter

• 160g coconut oil, melted

• 100g cacao powder

• 150g honey  (or maple syrup can be used)

• 1 tsp vanilla extract  (optional)

• pinch of salt  (optional)

• 75g hemp seeds (or pumpkin seeds)

• 75g walnuts, chopped

• 75g frozen blueberries & raspberries

Method

• Mix the nut butter, melted coconut and honey until smooth. 

• Add cacao powder & stir. 

• Then add all remaining ingredients and mix well. 

• Transfer the mix into a 20cm x 20cm tin lined with baking paper. Then place in the freezer for 30 minutes until firmly set. 

• Remove from freezer, cut into small bite sized squares and store in fridge.

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