Nikki (Front of House Assistant Manager – Tiptree) has begun a ‘Get Growing’ project by growing vegetables from seed. She has kindly agreed to share her story with us. Nikki began her journey with little knowledge and has now grown an amazing variety of vegetables that she can enjoy at home. Even if you’re not sure how to get growing you can always achieve your best. Our helpful team is also on hand to give you plenty of advice to get you started.
“I have always loved the idea of gardening and when I was younger spent a lot of time with my grandad in his allotment. So this year I wanted to grow from scratch, I felt like I had all the gear but no idea so I got lots of advice from Alfie (Garden Shop Manager) and Trina (Plant Area Expert), they were super helpful.
I started off potting the seeds (salad, chilies, parsley, sprouts, peppers, and tomatoes) in little pots and as they grew a little I transferred them to bigger pots and put them in my greenhouse.
I check and water them every evening so they can get all the water they need overnight and then hopefully the sun will then help them grow.
Once a week I feed them with tomato food and I am now just waiting for them to grow some more.”
Update 3rd August
“My tomatoes are now starting to show on the plants now. Unfortunately, I had some slugs on my other vegetables but I’m keeping my fingers crossed for those that made it! I had some fresh parsley on my homemade beef ragu and it just gave it that extra taste.”
Update 13th August
“Unfortunately, a lot of snails have been eating my plants. However, my chili and tomato plants are still doing really well. I have now potted some more peas and herbs so fingers crossed they get a chance to grow.”
Update 26th August
“My chilies are now growing well, they have started to flower which is exciting. Peas are shooting and I am a proud owner of a waterbutt!.”
Update 7th September
“I’ve had the first and second pickings of my tomatoes. I’m really proud to have some fresh produce, especially after the snails demolished most of my plants.”
An update will follow, also lookout for more projects from other members of our team!
