Rhydypenau Allotment Association

Newsletter Summer 2011

Issue 2 of 2011

Chairmans Message
I'm writing this article during the third week of June and - guess what - it's raining! Im disappointed because this means that yet another day of gardening at Rhydypenau has been lost to the weather. Im also disappointed because it's not so many years ago that the month of June was described as "flaming". That may have changed. However, what hasn't changed is the fact that this month, June, is often looked upon as the half-way point in the gardening calendar and, like Janus, we gardeners are looking backwards and forwards at the same time. Yes, we've prepared the ground, we've sown the seeds; and now we're looking forward to harvesting the crops. For most gardeners it is likely that the result will be a bumper crop. For others, things may not turn out so well. Never mind, there's always next year! Continued on page 2

Kings Seeds Orders for 2011-12

Janet and Allan Bond from plot 53 Right will be taking over the job of collecting and placing orders with Kings Seeds on behalf of Rhydypenau Allotment Association this Autumn. They would like to encourage all plotholders who will need vegetable seeds and seed potatoes this year to participate in the scheme because much better discounts on orders are available for plot holders for this and future years. The more orders we place as a group, the better the discounts and benefit to the plotholders and RAA. So never mind B&Q, Blooms and Pughs grab a catalogue and seed order from Janet and Allan when they are available and they will do the rest! Much more information will be available in the Autumn newsletter and plenty of Kings Seeds colour catalogues and order forms will be made available nearer the time. If you need to contact them, Janet and Allans phone number is (029) 20761167.

RAA Annual Show & BBQ: Saturday 13th August

Come and support our Show & BBQ!
List of show classes and further information enclosed with this newsletter.

Chairmans Message continued from page 1

But there is so much more to allotment gardening than simply looking after the soil. At an allotment, we come into almost daily contact with other people and it is at that point that our gardening takes on its social dimension. In this respect I feel that we are so lucky to be gardening here at Rhydypenau. Because Rhydypenau is such a beautiful site and it has so many positive features: the peace, the calm, the scenery, trees, the brook etc. But, importantly, it's also blest with so many wonderful people; and it is these people who make this site so special. Indeed, the people here are so friendly, positive, humorous, helpful, willing to share, to offer advice, to give freely of their time ... I could go on! As I said, there is something more to gardening than simply looking after the soil. Whatever that something is, I believe we've got it in abundance here at Rhydypenau!. And so, as we look forward to the months of July and August, lets hope for better weather and may I wish you every success with your crops. But most of all, may I thank you all for making Rhydypenau such a happy site.

Liam Affley

Two important requests from the Chairman on behalf of the Committee: Children at Rhydypenau
There is no question of the fact that young children are most welcome at Rhydypenau allotments. Indeed we are delighted that so many parents can bring their sons and daughters with them. We're also delighted that, recently, a party of young boys and girls from a local school was invited on to the site by a plotholder who most generously gave of his time in order to describe the various plants growing on his plot. The party was supervised by several teachers, who were careful to ensure that the pupils were well behaved and did not run about the site. And that is the point we must stress we ask parents who bring their sons and daughters on site to make sure that that their children are supervised at all times. Rhydypenau is a very attractive site; on a warm summer's day there is nothing to beat it. However, like all allotments, Rhydypenau can be a dangerous place. Accidents can happen. Last year a serious accident was narrowly averted because a young (unsupervised) child was allowed to play around while cars were arriving and exiting at the main gate. It is a pity that the following message has to be put so starkly: The Committee at Rhydypenau can accept no responsibility for accidents which may occur to unsupervised children on the site. Our thanks, in advance, to all parents for helping the committee in this very important matter.

No Communal Rubbish Collection This Year

As part of the preparations for Cardiff in Bloom for the last two years, the committee helped plotholders to tidy their plots during the month of July by hiring a truck to take any unwanted rubbish away. On both occasions the arrangements were subject to some abuse. For example, in 2009, amongst other things an old refrigerator was taken away! Last year, green bags full of household rubbish had to be removed. More seriously, large panes of broken glass were left scattered about these had to be loaded into a committee member's car and taken to the tip, with considerable risk of injury to that individual. So, after lengthy discussion, the committee has decided that there will be no rubbish truck this year. The responsibility for taking away rubbish rests solely with the plotholder. For that reason we would ask all plotholders for their understanding of the committee's decision. Thank you in advance for your support and cooperation.

Liam Affley

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Site Information

Our new Toilet!

We now have our own portable toilet with disabled access, purchased from Brandons at a cost of 1,338. It should last us for many years, especially as John Stanton and Ted Barrett have done such a professional job of constructing a permanent base for the toilet cabin, together with an access platform for wheelchairs sincere thanks to both for their hard work. Please note that the padlock on the toilet is opened by the same key that opens our main gates.

Greenhouse Waiting List

A vacancy in one of the communal greenhouses was advertised in the previous newsletter and subsequently allocated by ballot in April. The remaining greenhouses are all taken and the committee has decided to set up a waiting list to make sure the allocation of any future vacancies will be continue to be as fair as possible. Please get in touch with Derek, our Plot Secretary, if you would like to put your name on the waiting list.

Welcome to new members from our Plot Secretary

I would like to warmly welcome all new members in their first season at Rhydypenau. At this time of year, new plotholders often start to realise just how much work is involved in managing an allotment, especially as new weeds seem to appear every time you turn your back. Its important not to get disheartened - just keep plugging away, little and often is best to keep the weeds down. Unless you have inherited an allotment in particularly good condition, its often a case of putting the first year down to experience. And dont forget that even us old hands are always learning as we go along! Please remember that Im usually available either on site (plot 41) or on my mobile 07939 216020 if you have any queries or need some advice. Derek Salmoni, Plot Secretary

RAA Subscriptions Final reminder

A few plotholders have still not paid their subscriptions for 2011. If you have not yet paid your annual subscription of 3 to Rhydypenau Allotment Association, we urge you to do so as soon as possible so that you can have your say about the way we manage the site, and also enjoy the benefits of membership such as the site shop and discounted seed orders (as mentioned on page 1 of this newsletter). Subs can be paid at the site shop on Saturday mornings or directly to Cliff West (Treasurer, plot 52a) or Derek Salmoni (Plot Secretary, plot 41). The subscription income helps towards running costs so that we can continue to improve the site and its facilities.

Site Shop
The site shop will continue to open on Saturday mornings for the time being (11am-12.30pm) except on very rainy days when there are few plotholders at the site. We have plenty of stock of multipurpose compost and growbags, which can still be used for growing summer salads. We also have a new batch of 8ft. sturdy bean canes which are of excellent quality and cheaper than you can buy in many of the shops.

Results of Council Questionnaire

Last year Cardiff Council asked all plotholders to complete a questionnaire about their plot and their site. This survey was intended to inform the Councils review of its Allotment Strategy. 50% of plotholders in Cardiff completed the questionnaire, and we have placed a copy of the results of the survey in the site chalet for those of you who would like to read what was said.

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Cardiff in Bloom: Best Allotment Site competition

The committee placed notices on the site gates several weeks ago to alert everyone to the approaching Cardiff in Bloom season, but at the time of signing off this newsletter we still have no further news about this years Best Allotment Site competition. Judging usually takes place some time in mid to late July, so we can only guess that the judging has been postponed this year or that well be informed by the Council at extremely short notice. In spite of this uncertainty, we would be grateful if all plotholders could put in a little extra time to make sure their plots and adjoining paths are tidy. Communal areas are included in the judging criteria, so we would like to thank Claire Edwards who has put a lot of energy into improving the area around the Heath Halt entrance this corner of the site now looks much more welcoming, with cheerful plants in reclaimed wheelbarrows and painted tyres.

Reseiclo, Newport

Making good use of old wood

Allotment gardeners often have a fondness for old bits of wood and the art of turning them into useful objects such as raised beds, planters and compost bins. If youre looking for any kind of wood for your allotment, a visit to the Reseiclo project in Newport is recommended. Reseiclo is a not-for-profit initiative with a mission to rescue and reuse as much unwanted wood as possible, to reduce the amount being sent to landfill. A wide selection of reclaimed timber is available for sale at their warehouse and is generally priced about half that of new wood at DIY stores locally. Some of the wood they rescue is used to make useful objects for home and garden compost bins and garden furniture are among their most popular products, and they can make items to order too. Its a good idea to measure up for any projects before you visit Reseiclo and take a tape measure with you to assess the pieces of wood on offer in the warehouse. Having some idea of what you want will help to keep you focused and avoid spending too much if you have even the smallest passion for wood, it really is like being in a sweet shop at Christmas! Address: Reseiclo, Unit 2, Harlequin Industrial Estate, Alderney Street, Newport NP20 5NH Tel: 01633 856 622 / www.reseiclo.co.uk

Ruperra Conservation Trust

Woodland products & land management services

Ruperra Conservation Trust, which owns and manages Coed Craig Ruperra near Caerphilly, is offering woodland products for sale, including hazel bean poles, pea sticks and plant stakes, and land management services, with all profits going back to the Trust. I can recommend them I ordered bean poles earlier this year and asked them for help to set up some fence posts and wires to support my raspberry canes. They are friendly, the services are very reasonably priced, and its good to know that your money is going to a worthwhile cause. The Trust can be contacted on 07984 665958 or ruperra@googlemail.com

Karen Allen

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Seasonal Recipe: Raspberry Leather

When deciding how to preserve raspberries, most of us would probably think of making jam. Raspberry leather is an alternative way of preserving excess fruit and it makes a healthy snack. From Grow Your Own magazine, October 2008.

Raspberry Leather:
Boil up 800g of raspberries until they turn into pure, and then pass them through a sieve to remove any pips. Return them to the pan with the juice of one lemon and 100g honey, and simmer for five minutes. Then pour onto a baking tray lined with foil and pop into the oven at 70 oC (gas mark 1/2) it should take around six hours to dry. Once cool, roll the leather up and place it in an airtight container. It will keep for two months in the cupboard, four months in the fridge, or one year in the freezer.

Herbal Hints
Thanks to Lorna Davies for this collection of tips for making the best use of home-grown herbs.
Chop fresh parsley in a cup with a pair of scissors much faster than chopping on a board. Wash fresh parsley under the cold tap, pat dry with kitchen paper, and use the stalks as well for a deeper flavour. Dry fresh rosemary instantly in the microwave. Place several stalks between two sheets of kitchen roll, put in the microwave on full power for 20 seconds, turn over and repeat four times. You will see the kitchen roll absorbing the moisture. Then just crumble into your herb jar. The above tip also works for fresh thyme and sage. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley onto freshly cooked vegetables to enhance presentation. Thyme also works well with carrots, and sage with parsnips or swede. Always tear fresh basil leaves, dont cut them, as this bruises them. Decorate any pasta dishes with these, particularly any with tomato sauces. Basil has a strong affinity with tomatoes, and is great when torn and sprinkled over a tomato salad. Try adding a little parsley as well, for added flavour. Add chopped fresh chives to any egg dishes, such as omelettes or scrambled eggs. This gives a slight onion-y flavour, but not too much. Add a large sprig of mint after draining new potatoes, replacing the saucepan lid to trap the steam. Leave for a few minutes before serving the smell of the mint is amazing! Use freshly chopped herbs in stuffing the difference in flavour is very noticeable! Sprinkle halved tomatoes with dried mixed herbs, add a little chopped fresh garlic and a knob of butter, and oven-bake for 15 minutes lovely with fish. Sprinkle any freshly chopped herbs onto soup for added flavour and aroma. Add either dried mixed herbs or oregano and basil to a tin of chopped tomatoes, when using in a recipe.

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RAA Committee for 2011:

President: Chairman: Vice Chairman: Treasurer: Admin Secretary: Plot Secretary Other Committee Members: Ruth West Liam Affley Ted Barrett Cliff West Penny Owen Derek Salmoni Colin Smith Claire Edwards Lorna Davies John Stanton Karen Allen Plot 52a Plot 74 Plot 27 Plot 52a Plot 85b Plot 41 Plot 53a Plot 24 Plot 22 Plot 28b Plot 68b Tel: 2075 4477 Tel: 20770161 Tel: 20259476 Tel: 2075 4477 Tel: 2062 3972 Tel: 2063 2277 Mob: 07939 216020 Tel: 20764248 Tel: 20756493 Tel: 20618516 Tel: 20764649 Tel: 20455866

Next Newsletter:
The next newsletter will be produced in early autumn. Please send any newsletter contributions to Karen Allen by 1st September (contact details below). Your ideas, suggestions, questions and articles will be genuinely welcomed.

Who to Contact:
Plot queries & advice, waiting lists for plots, brick cubicles, etc: Derek Salmoni, Plot Secretary, 32 May Street, Cathays, Cardiff CF24 4EX / Tel: 2063 2277 / 07939 216020 General correspondence: Penny Owen, Admin Sec, mail via the Red Post Box next to the Association Shed, near Heath Halt entrance. Tel: 2062 3972 / penny.owen@btinternet.com Newsletter & website contributions: Karen Allen, 6 Jellicoe Court, Atlantic Wharf, Cardiff CF10 4AJ / 029 2045 5866 / ka.allen@btinternet.com

The Big Butterfly Count 2011

The Big Butterfly Count is a nationwide survey aimed at taking natures pulse during July. It was launched in 2010 and an impressive 10,000 people took part, counting 210,000 butterflies and day-flying moths across Britain. To take part in this years survey, the basic idea is to count butterflies for 15 minutes during bright (preferably sunny) weather on any day from 16th to 31st July. Records are welcome from anywhere: parks, gardens, allotments, fields and forests. You can count from a fixed position or on a walk - further details are available on www.bigbutterflycount.org/about Results can be logged online until the end of August.

Photograph by John Chichester (plot 94)

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Rhydypenau Allotment Association Annual Mini-Show

Saturday 13th August 2011
Come and support our Show and BBQ Bring your friends and family Entry: Adults 2 / Children 1

Includes food & drink tickets plus Quiz sheet BBQ from 2pm 3pm Show Judging 4pm Viewing of results and exhibits 4.30pm Raffle draw 4.45pm Quiz answers
(All times are approximate)

SHOW INFORMATION
Please Note: Exhibits to be staged from 11am - 2.30pm in Christ Church Hall Cards will be available for exhibitors to write class number, plot number and their name. For each exhibit - the card MUST be placed face down next to the exhibit. Judging by Bob Webb takes place 3pm - 4pm Rosettes to be awarded for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd places in each class. A Special Rosette will be awarded for the Best in Show exhibit in classes 1-27, plus a voucher. Exhibits can be removed after raffle draw and quiz answers (about 5pm). Parents and grandparents please encourage your children/grandchildren to be creative in the 2 classes listed specifically for them. For Children's Classes (28 & 29), rosettes will be awarded with vouchers for prize winners.

Volunteers & Donations of raffle prizes

If any plotholders have some spare time on the Saturday morning, the committee would be grateful for help with preparations for the show. Derek will be at Christchurch hall from 10am onwards. If anyone has any bottles, jams and preserves, or chocolates they would like to donate as raffle prizes, they can be delivered to John Stanton (Plot 28b) and will be gratefully received.
Show Information prepared by Claire Edwards

LIST OF SHOW CLASSES 2011

VEGETABLE CLASSES
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17.
PAIR OF MARROWS or SQUASH - wash exhibits leaving about 1 on stalk 3 CARROTS clean and uniform shape 3 BEETROOT even size, twist leaves off leaving about 3 of stem tied individually 3 LARGE ONIONS washed and dried, with unbroken top skin. Stalks cut 1 from top and tied 3 ONIONS - under 250 grams each uniform, firm, well ripened. Stalks cut 1 from top and tied 6 SHALLOTS uniform, firm, well ripened with tops tied and displayed on a bed of sand/sawdust 1 BULB OF GARLIC - Stalks cut about 1 from top and tied 5 White POTATOES uniform, good shape & washed displayed on a paper plate - name variety 5 red or coloured POTATOES - as for white potatoes above - name variety 5 TOMATOES uniform, firm and ripe, displayed on a paper plate. Name variety 6 BEANS OTHER THAN RUNNER - uniform size with small part of stalk left on. 6 RUNNER BEANS uniform size with a small part of stalk left on. 1 BRASSICA - firm head with root & damaged outer leaves removed 2 COURGETTES - uniform size up to about 15cm - any colour - can leave flower on 1 ANY OTHER VEGETABLE grown under glass/polythene not listed above - name vegetable 1 ANY OTHER VEGETABLE grown outdoors on allotment not listed above - name vegetable COLLECTION of different HERBS (maximum 5) - display and name

NOVELTY CLASSES
18. 19. 20. 21.
HEAVIEST POTATO wash off excessive dirt HEAVIEST ONION take off roots with about 1 stem HEAVIEST PUMPKIN, SQUASH OR MARROW with stalk cut off about 2 from fruit LONGEST RUNNER BEAN

FRUIT CLASSES
22. 23. Plate 4 APPLES (1 variety) and/or Plate of 4 PEARS (1 variety ) Plate or dish of any OTHER FRUIT not listed above

NEW CLASS
24.
HOME MADE JAMS, CHUTNEYS, PICKLES

FLOWER CLASSES
25. 26. 27.
VASE OF FLOWERS 3 blooms of any 1 type (e.g. Rose, Dahlia, Chrysanthemum) SINGLE FLOWER one exhibit of one flower to be shown in a vase/container FLORAL ARRANGEMENT

CHILDRENS CLASSES
28. 29. MINIATURE GARDEN displayed in a seed tray or similar. Max dimensions 12 x 18 ANIMAL OR BIRD made out of fruit and/or vegetables.