The commencement in November of the 2020/2021 Apprenticeship Programme will start with the wonderful nutrition that plant medicines offer us. The first flush of spring plants like miners lettuce, dandelions, chickweed, fat hen and cleavers are all providers of fantastic nutrition. The spring apprenticeship classes with explore wild plants and how they can improve our nutrition and keep us well.  Prevention is better than cure.

PHYTOFARM SPRING TIPS FOR MAKING YOUR OWN MEDICINE GARDEN

Time for an exploration of the garden, what has happened in the garden over winter. Take note of any garden beds that need to be cleaned out – we did our peppermint house. New soil, compost and dug up and cleaned the peppermint plants of other weeds, replanted and sorted the watering system.  

Look for any landscape elements that need to be done – we are making new raised beds down the right-hand slope of the garden – for purple sage, lemon balm and arnica.

Keep a good hygiene standard by removing any diseased plants or leaves with clean, sharp pruners. Cut back and divide clumping perennials where necessary.  

Examine the soil for humus and nutrient content. Top dress garden beds with an inch or two of compost and prepare for dry summer periods with a thick layer of pea straw to help retain moisture.