Face mask donations appear courtesy of a plot holder in the Community Hut. We are all getting used to wearing masks whenever we shop or are in a communal area. These masks have a delightful message on the packet being from Tzu Chi Foundation. The allotments remain on the list of permitted activities for everyone in Salford. It has been a tough time for the Greater Manchester area. We are being held in tighter measures due to the increasing numbers of Covid-19 cases.
Sunflower Fun in the Sun
Sunflowers don’t have to wear masks, but this cheery chap appeared on one plot. Birds do enjoy sunflower seeds, but we are not so sure they are that artistic! It’s lovely to do something to bring a smile to everyone else around the allotments.
It is a busy time of year with bramble fruits and squashes filling out. Salad leaves and roots are needing to be picked regularly. New sowing of seeds taking place for a succession of crops. We are working hard to make sure that our plots continue to provide us with food. Any surplus is going to Salford Food Parcels who have a collection point for us on their plot on site.
Continuing to face coronavirus
Notices are checked and up-dated around the site. More disinfectant and gel is obtained and put in key areas like the gate and community hut. Egg collection continues from the Community Chickens by volunteers. Fortunately the chickens cannot get coronavirus. Anyone with symptoms is asked to stay away from the allotment. If a family member or friend needs to come on the plot holders behalf they arrange that with the Secretary.
No Face Mask on your own plot
Plot holders are also enjoying the benefits of being able to attend the allotment to do exercise outside. Each plot has clear boundaries marked by paths on each side, a roadway at the front and fencing at the rear. The plots in the middle have an extra path at the rear rather than a fence.
Allotment Etiquette
It is allotment etiquette that you do not enter a plot that does not belong to you without an invitation from the plot holder. One exception is Buttercup, the allotment cat, who has a fine time roaming around. If people do need to do tasks together, for example lifting heavy items, they should be from the same household. Items that are being sold from the shop are dealt with by gloved volunteers. Face masks on if they need to share the shop space.