
One challenge has been to create a symmetrical layout, given that the obvious reference point, the long back wall which contained the old farm yard, is not straight. There is in fact a 60cm "drift" from one end of the wall to the other. So we've referenced other landmarks, like the paving that surrounds the barn, to create a symmetrical layout, and conceal the back wall's "drift." Once beans and pumpkin clamber up poles, and the Yew hedge grows, people shouldn't notice any asymmetry.
The Kitchen Garden will contain several beds for perennial vegetables, like asparagus, artichokes, and fruit bushes. I've chosen three Asparagus cultivars - Guelph Millennium, Mondeo, and Pacific 2000 - aiming for good taste over the entire season. Unfortunately they've arrived a little early, so they're currently having a long nap in the pantry, wrapped in moist towels to keep them cool and damp.
Rather than lengthening the plant queue any further, I've asked Ashridge Trees to deliver the Yew hedging next week, when I should be able to start planting. One of the nice things about their service is that you can specify a delivery week, which works well if you've got a lot of planting to do. Meanwhile, we're hoping for another frost this evening, so that the turf stays dormant.