Quality on show despite lack of rain

Our main growing season which began with a cold spring period, developed into a series of destructive winds, followed by a prolonged shortage of rain, engendered thoughts of gloom and doom.

- BY TOM PATTINSON

Now that signs of autumn appear, we can start to assess the result as witnessed in our own gardens, those of others, and the quality seen on the bench at various shows.

Undoubtedly, our biggest problem has been the lack of rain and the inevitable concern for edible and ornamental plants.

However, the vegetables and fruit have performed well thanks to the widespread use of organic mulch and regular watering.

The best crop of 'Charlotte' second early potatoes we've had in years has just been lifted and stored in hessian sacks despite the high temperatures, dry conditions, a pheasant, and blight.