From Vegetable Plot To Plate
A simple practical guide to the mechanics of allotment gardening using seasonal vegetables to create rustic tasty vegetable recipes
© 2019 Debbie Hiley
Cover, Illustrations: Debbie Hiley
Publisher: tredition
ISBN |
|
Paperback |
ISBN 978-3-7497-7407-4 |
Hardcover |
ISBN 978-3-7497-7408-1 |
eBook |
ISBN 978-3-7497-7409-8 |
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Contents of this work are protected by copyright law
No part of this work may be copied without prior permission from the author.
From Vegetable Plot To Plate
A simple practical guide to the mechanics of allotment gardening using seasonal vegetables to create rustic tasty vegetable recipes
Contents
INTRODUCTION
GETTING STARTED
GROWING SPRING VEGETABLES
SPRING VEGETABLE RECIPES
GROWING SUMMER VEGETABLES
SUMMER VEGETABLE RECIPES
GROWING AUTUMN VEGETABLES
AUTUMN VEGETABLE RECIPES
GROWING WINTER VEGETABLES
WINTER VEGETABLE RECIPES
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
RESOURCES
Introduction
My interest and enthusiasm in gardening and cooking have spanned over many years, by writing this book I am combining these two interests. Growing allotment plot vegetables through the seasons accompanied by some of my favourite seasonal vegetable recipes.
Having been a vegetarian for thirty years and most recently a pescatarian I have always preferred the wonderful taste of home-grown vegetables as the taste is second to none, wonderful flavours on a plate. The finished product may not be the most attractive looking vegetable that you have ever seen but I assure you it makes up for this in taste alone. Growing good food for me was the main purpose of having an allotment plot.
I am now retired from my career as a paediatric nurse which spanned over thirty-six years. Although I do feel that this has provided me with a good foundation as it contributed somewhat to me being able to attend my allotment plot by providing me with the available time in between shifts and nurturing the patience required which has enabled me to be able to commit to and attend to it.
Having an allotment plot is a great hobby which is also very relaxing, creative, rewarding and at the same time challenging. Never the less it is always a joy to tend to, nurture and enjoy the rewards of your personal efforts. There is a great sense of community. You can join in with social banter with other allotment holders or alternatively you may prefer solitary time to yourself, it can be as interactive as you want it to be. Not only is there the added bonus of fresh air and exercise, but there is also an overall sense of wellbeing, so it is great for holding the mind body and soul together. With the ultimate goal of having the achievement and fulfilment of growing and harvesting your own delicious tasting vegetables.
In the present climate where land is being acquired for building developments, plot holders have had to take a political stand to prevent their land from being used in this way. In the village that I reside in, we needed to take this very approach, as the threat of building a small development on some of the allotments was proposed. I am happy to report that we were successful in preventing this proposition from happening. Community spirit prevailed in the end, and it was a positive outcome for the allotment holders.
More recently in 2018, the future of our allotments have been protected by the introduction of a key strategy for services and facilities in villages, with the implementation of a village plan. The idea being, that any future proposed developments for a village, should take into consideration the local village plan and remain within its framework. These plans will become part of the strategic development plan produced by district councils and, therefore, will carry weight in the determination of planning applications.
Allotments are an environmental asset, firstly creating a green space for numerous wildlife species and secondly providing a sense of community and well being for the plot holders themselves.
Over the last fifteen years I have tended my allotment plot with a fair amount of success and also with some failures along the way. It can be a ride of highs and lows. On balance a great learning curve. I will share my experience and tips for growing vegetables, which stems from trial and error and shared tips from other passionate allotment plot holders. My main aim of this book is to provide a practical guide to creating and enjoying your own plot.