There has been much excitement at Muddy Fork, Retford’s Gardening for Wellbeing charity, with the long-awaited installation of the new shell for the old polytunnel. The day finally arrived when preparations were complete, risk assessments done, and the weather was calm and dry – perfect conditions for the team to get to work.
The operation wasn’t without its challenges. One notable glitch occurred when it seemed the new shell wouldn’t fit, only to realise it was a simple case of trying to place the cover on the wrong way round! (If all else fails, read the instructions!) Fortunately, this was quickly resolved, though the entire erection process took the team a full morning. Afterward, the trenches around the edges were refilled, making the structure secure and stable, allowing the next stage of work to commence.
The raised beds inside the polytunnel then needed topping up with topsoil, which involved a slow but satisfying process of riddling. The end product looked very healthy. While this is still a work in progress, good use is already being made of the prepared beds, with some courgette plants moved in. It’s hoped they will fare better than outside, where their flowers were being eaten almost as soon as they appeared—a common story in this year’s challenging growing season.
Muddy Fork is extremely grateful to Retford Rotary Club, especially Rob Morrison, Chair of their Community Services Committee. The Club funded the polytunnel shell and has been a staunch supporter of the project over the years. Assistance from local organisations is always deeply appreciated. In a year when weather and predators have conspired against the garden, the new poly-tunnel offers hope that something may finally grow!
For more information, visit www.muddyfork.uk. To make a referral, offer your services as a volunteer, or make a donation, contact Rose, Muddy Fork’s General Manager, at rose.muddyfork@outlook.com. Visitors to the garden are always welcome, and you might even find some produce on the honesty stand at the gate.