It might seem that we're enduring a long, damp, and very wet winter this year, but here at the Nene Wetlands, we're embracing the spring vibes. The crocuses, daffodils, and some early tulips are blooming happily in the spring bulb lasagne planters—created by the children at our October family open day at the community garden. Our regular community groups have been bustling with activity as they prepare for our second growing season.
Over the last couple of months, Cando Care clients visited us for some garden-related activities. They planted spider plants and we also did some planning for the sowing and planting season. We organized our vegetable seeds and created a plan chart with colourful vegetable and fruit info cards, skillfully decorated by the group members. They're all eagerly anticipating March when the 'real' gardening work begins.
In February, Rushden Lakes kindly offered us some wooden planters that are no longer needed on-site. We decided to upcycle these, and two of the groups worked tirelessly to prepare them for future use in the community garden. The Headway East Northants group had a busy afternoon repairing, sanding down, and lining two of the planters. The following day, the Growild Outreach group prepared two more planters in the same way, followed by a painting session. Both groups are looking forward to getting these ready for a spring display in the garden during their March sessions.
In the upcoming weeks, we'll begin sowing seeds for indoor growing and continue working on some upcycled planters, including two large ones donated by Rushden Lakes. These will be located in the garden area, and more donated cherry trees will soon be planted. In other garden-related news, with the funds from a recent successful funding application, we'll be installing a shed, building an outdoor cooking station, and Moulton College students and tutors will create and install a picnic bench with seats and a pergola over the existing bench for much-needed shade. This will enable us to deliver outdoor cooking sessions to families and educate them about sustainability and how to use the fruits and vegetables they can grow at home or in the community garden.
We're also super excited about the launch of our new Family Wildlife Gardening Club, aimed at local urban families. It will kick off in April with a launch session supported by Rushden Lakes, featuring lots of promotion and entertainment, followed by a session during the Easter holidays. Fingers crossed for dry weather! For more information and to book onto our events please visit here.
We also have school visits and open days planned in the next few months at the garden area. Here's to a busy spring season!
If you would like more info or if you would like to get involved with the project, please email Viktoria.marta@wildlifebcn.org
