July Update - Potatoes are IN

Thank you weather for a lovely SUNNY weekend, as such I prepared Garden Bed #2 for Potatoes (Pontiac).
First up I had to remove the Perpetual Spinach in Bed#2; it got relocated to Bed#1.
This is my first attempt at potatoes and I am very excited. I understand it will take a fair bit of time for them to grow and quite a bit of space, both of which I have.

Now I must confess that Bed#2 does not get as much sun as I would like in June/July and part of August, but more than enough to start the potatoe patch. There are 12 seed spud, which should be more than enough for two.

I also bought & erected a 4 Tier Glasshouse (made of plastic) from trusty old Bunnings.
I hope to raise a lot of seedlings and out of season items in the Glasshouse, I already have Pineapple Sage and Grapefruit Sage sitting pretty and keeping warm.

There is still a few carrots floating around Bed#1, but they should get eaten in the next few days. The next round of carrots are a long way off.

I also planted some red coral lettuce and more leeks, thanks to my dad. Who had waiting for me on my last visit a pot of lettuce & leeks seedlings.

Waiting for my COS lettuce to seed so I can collect and store for summer.

Brocoli & Cauliflower are coming along nicley.

Sugar Snap Peas are being picked on a daily basis. YUM. I have about 12 plants on the go.

I planted Broad Beans this weekend gone, they replaced the Butter Beans that I planted way to late in season.

Til next time

Recipe - Pickled Beetroot

Pickled Beetroot
I know it is not very original, but beetroot is easy to grow and easy to pickle.
This is for about a kilo of beets
You will need:-
750 grams (5-6) of beetroot
Water to cook beets

2 Cups White Vinegar
3/4 Cup White Sugar
2 Bay Leaves
12 Doz Peppercorns
3 - 4 Jars Glass (200-250ml) & lids

Cover beetroot (skin still on) with cold water and bring to boil.
Simmer for about 15-25 minutes depending on size of beets.
When a skewer goes through it is cooked.
Drain of water. Cool for 5-10 minutes. Then while still warm rub skin off.
It comes of quite easliy...Slice or Cut into preferred sizes; I baton them (strips) or cut into 1/4's.
Once cut place into sterilised jars (place clean jars in oven at 150C degrees for 20 minutes. If lids are metal also place in oven, if not boil for 5 minutes)

Pickle Liquid
Bring Vinegar, Sugar, Bay & Pepper to boil, simmer until sugar is dissolved.
Pour into jars of beetroot, place lid on.
Once cooled store in dark dry space.

They will be good to go in about 3-4 weeks.