Gardening is not something that you would normally associate with the cold, dark days of November, but then again the No Dig garden at Oxford Island doesn’t follow the conventional rules.
In fact November and early winter is the perfect time to begin planning for the 2025 crop of vegetables, as well as preparing the ground for a new vegetable plot.
On Saturday 30 November, the latest in a very successful series of workshops – organised by ABC Council’s Recycling Team – will be held at the No Dig plot at Kinnego Bushcraft Community Garden.
As part of the workshop, the No Dig plot will be expanded, allowing visitors the chance to see the simple steps needed to create a new bed for plants.
The No Dig bed is a partnership between Kinnego Bushcraft Community Garden, the Recycling Team at ABC Council and local firm Natural World Products who process the organic waste for ABC Council and produce peat free composts, one of which ‘New Leaf Compost is being used at the garden.
Sharon McMaster from Natural World Products’ outreach team, who will lead the workshop alongside gardening expert Biruk Sahle, said the winter months still provide opportunities in the garden.
“For many people, vegetable gardening starts in March or April and ends in October. But in reality there are lots of things we can be doing in the garden all year round, when the weather allows,” she said.
“This time of year is perfect for starting a No Dig bed, as it will give it time to establish before the arrival of Spring next year. At the workshop, I will also explain all the different vegetables which we can plant at this time of year, like garlic, onions, broad beans and peas.”
Sharon added: “We have had a great response to the No Dig garden at Kinnego and hopefully those people who come along to the next workshop, can learn some helpful tips, as well as saving themselves from all that back-breaking digging.”
The No Dig workshop at Kinnego Bushcraft Community Garden will be held from 10am – 12pm on Saturday 30 November, numbers for the classes are limited, if you are interested please email to register.
