Before we’ve had time to tidy the potting shed and give the lawn a final cut… it’s almost the end of the year! But never fear, KG is here to see you through the winter months.
Editor Steve Ott (pictured below) writes: “With the harvest gathered it’s a great time to catch up on some out-of-season jobs and to prepare for the year ahead.
“Of course, no one would have chosen the strange and difficult year we’ve had, but lockdown has at least given us time to tend to our crops in a way we could usually only dream of. The confinement and concerns regarding food security also encouraged lots of newcomers to take the plunge and interest in growing your own has blossomed once again.
“So this issue is packed with great features which we hope will inspire experienced plotters and give confidence to beginners. Looking ahead to next year, we have growing guides for globe and Jerusalem artichokes as well as cucumbers and squashes of all kinds, rhubarb, dwarf French beans and sweet peas. And if you turn to page 24, you can even learn how to grow your own salsa!
“Of course, there are jobs that are best tackled over the winter months and fruit grower David Patch brings you his expert advice on pruning pear trees. Starting on page 36 keen plotter and gardening expert for new daytime TV show Steph’s Packed Lunch, Rob Smith, offers his top tips for planning your plot to give bumper pickings next year.
“Your KG team has some great seasonal advice for you too. Deputy editor Emma Rawlings encourages you to care for your garden birds this winter while staff writer Tony Flanagan has been putting some greenhouse heaters to the test.
“Finally, if you are looking for Christmas gift inspiration we have some great ideas.”
As always, KG‘s imaginative and creative culinary queen Anna Cairns Pettigrew is on hand to whip up some delicious dishes. This roast chicken dinner (pictured below) is sure to please the meat-eaters in the family, but Anna never fails to offer alternatives for vegetarians or vegans and her hearty vegan pie, also featured in the December issue, is a good addition to the festive table.
Remember, if you’re looking for the gift that just keeps on giving, why not buy a friend or relative a subscription to KG? They’ll get a supply of free seeds and the joy of receiving their magazine through the letterbox every month, with seasonal advice and tips from the expert team. Enjoy!
