Planting parsnips

Friday 3rd April
I was on a mission today - to get all the other jobs done and still leave time for the allotment. The weather had been damp and misty in the morning, but had started to clear by mid-afternoon, so definitley good timing. I decided to plant some peas in the guttering destined for the shed. I thought it might as well be put to good use while it's waiting to be put up. Just another in the ever-growing list of JOBS TO BE DONE. I mixed up some rotted manure with some compost and planted the peas carefully every two inches. I had cleared the inside of the cold frame of weeds, so I put the smaller piece of guttering inside the cold frame, and larger piece just outside, so that the lid could overhang and afford some protection.
Next, I prepared the soil ready to plant carrots and parsnips. Peter had already rototilled the ground so it just needed a little turning and raking to leave it fine enough for the seeds. I planted the Hybrid Purple Haze carrots which Lee Ann and Matthew had bought me for Christmas. It was difficult to sprinkle them very finely, so by the end of the row, I realised I had used all 180 seeds! The parsnips were much easier, as they were bigger, and it was almost possible to plant them individually. I had watered the soil first as suggested on the packet, with water taken from the river. I'm lucky enough to be within easy reach of the river. The swan didn't think so though, as he let me know his displeasure with a long hissssss!
Stopped at Sarah's plot on the way home - she's got some superb winter lettuce growing. Some is protected, but some is open to the elements - I'm not sure how she is keeping it a secret form the rabbits!