Allotment Gardening Advice Help Chat

Chatting => Chatting on the Plot => Topic started by: jambop on March 17, 2020, 09:01

Title: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: jambop on March 17, 2020, 09:01

Well France is in lock down now all I have to occupy my time is the garden... place will be like the hanging gardens of Babylon by the time the crisis is over ! Seriously though stay safe people.
Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: OakR on March 17, 2020, 09:14
I'm not sure what people will do or be allowed to do in terms of visiting allotments. In the UK I think it will be allowed, and hopefully people can just be careful at the entry and exit points.
Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: Hampshire Hog on March 17, 2020, 11:44
Hopefully we will be allowed to visit allotments. Unless you had a very small plot you must be a metre away from neighbours. I think I’m going to grow salad crops at home in case we are banned from allotments. Sorry to mention it but I also think we have be aware that some crops might pilfered at allotments and I don’t just mean the rabbits and slugs we normally contend with.
Good luck to all
Stay safe!
Cheers HH
Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: rowlandwells on March 17, 2020, 15:59
i must say we need to get clarification regarding visiting our allotments because there is so much to be done being held back by the wet autumn the late spring most of us have potatoes onion sets and more to plant so we really need know if we can visit our allotments within the government guidelines

taking into account that we would be there working and therefore not as a  social gathering  less than five people i know we all need to consider the health implications of this virus to us older members of society and others but  being out in the fresh air basically not having any contact with people like on busses or trains or in shops and other places surely this must be taken into consideration when advising people if working on the allotments is acceptable within the present health guidelines



Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: Tenhens on March 17, 2020, 16:09
Good question .

Hopefully we should be able to tend our crops and not have to rely on the shops.
Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: Hampshire Hog on March 17, 2020, 16:20
I am definitely wanting to start the season. My spuds are ready to plant too as soon as the ground dries out a bit more and my onion sets need to go out too. I have just bought some more large pots for salad and vegetables at home but it would be a waste to not cultivate my plot. The weather down here in Hampshire seems to be perking up so I think I will have a go at preparing my beds before the week end. At present we seem to be living from day to day as far as guidance is concerned so I will prepare whilst I think I’m still allowed.
Cheers HH
Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: Christine on March 17, 2020, 16:27
Suppose it depends on the allotment sites and the ages of the plot holders. It's an individual thing. As one of the plot holders said as we came home today, he can walk in, has no underlying health issues and we can both work our plots without coming into contact except shouting at each other at a great distance. That comes under the heading of exercise. ?
Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: jambop on March 17, 2020, 17:20
It is a real concern but I would assume if the correct protocols are followed people should be OK to work on their allotment, it is not as if you are having a big party down there... are you?? :lol:

Looks like the next four or five days are going to be really nice down here so I should get a lot done. I have nearly finished re posting my fence 80m long and a post every two meters bloomin hard work. My garden ground is very wet still so nothing can be done in the open ground but my raised beds are workable so I have a fair bit to do there. In many ways this virus has helped focus my attention ... I have no escape from doing the work!
Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: andyww2013 on March 17, 2020, 17:54
I did some work a few weeks back.  Will have some seedlings to put in soon.  My allotment is quite out of the way, I'll disinfect after touching the gate and go down when nobody else is there.

As a poster has already said I fear if things get worse there are some in the community who'll think nothing of stripping allotments empty on basis that they believe they are above queuing or going without.
Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: Yorkie on March 17, 2020, 18:29
We've been told today that "At this time, government advice is that exercising outdoors for those without symptoms is still acceptable so long as people maintain a distance between each other."

Obviously, if government advice changes, so may this too.
Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: juvenal on March 17, 2020, 19:28
Having an allotment is going to be a godsend over Spring and summer. I intend to be down there most days, weather permitting. No need to get within six feet of anyone else, yet still able to chat with others.
Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: Plot 1 Problems on March 17, 2020, 19:55
I shall certainly continue to work the plot, salad sowing starts this week and we'll be wanting the homegrown stuff to supplement our shopping as we have no idea how long the greedy muppets are going to continue the feckless stockpiling.
Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: New shoot on March 18, 2020, 11:04
I think a really nice gesture to anyone you know who is going to have to self isolate to protect themselves would be to offer a few spare seeds, perhaps some seedlings, plus pots and sort them out with some compost.

I can see tending a few easy going flowers or veg every day in the garden could be a great activity.  Fresh air and exercise are still going to be important to everyone  :)
Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: Plot 1 Problems on March 18, 2020, 11:52
I think a really nice gesture to anyone you know who is going to have to self isolate to protect themselves would be to offer a few spare seeds, perhaps some seedlings, plus pots and sort them out with some compost.

I can see tending a few easy going flowers or veg every day in the garden could be a great activity.  Fresh air and exercise are still going to be important to everyone  :)

Just been round to some retired friends of ours who have self isolated and dropped them some of my spare seed packs!
Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: rowlandwells on March 18, 2020, 15:09
seed sowing's are at present on hold i wish someone would give us a clear definitive answer can we go to the allotments a mile away or not I'm taking on board what Yorkie said  because its so hit and miss who the hell do you ask about these things dilly dallying about yes you can no you can't

its like putting a sack over your head somewhere you don't know and telling you find your way home :mad: one thing i do know i can self isolate down the allotments more than i can at home  >:(


Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: mumofstig on March 18, 2020, 16:35
As I can get to my allotment site along a rarely used footpath, I'm doing that to avoid meeting someone - just using gloves while opening the gate and disinfectant them afterwards so I can't transfer the virus to my face. Once inside the fences people are keeping on their own plots, so we are distancing ourselves from others. Any conversations are now shouted rather than a quiet chat - but at least we are out in the fresh air, getting some exercise.
When they start telling us not to go out for a walk, then I'll think again.
Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: Growster... on March 18, 2020, 20:42
I met our lovely neighbour today at our front gate.

She told me that their gorgeous lady dog had been sent asleep. All I wanted to do was to give my chum a huge hug, (I'd known and petted the beautiful three-legged Bosnian refugee dog, Georgie for years), but hugging human chums ain't allowed now...

So, we chatted about this and that and suddenly, an hour later, a huge pile of rhubarb appeared with a beautiful note.

Blimey, I just fill up when super people like that communicate.
Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: Tenhens on March 18, 2020, 22:18
One consequence of the virus is the halting of production of Eastenders and other soaps that have passed their sellby dates , have scrolled through some of the comments all of which hope the production break is permanent. Hopefully someone at the Beeb takes heed. I thinks not.
Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: Plot 1 Problems on March 18, 2020, 23:19
One consequence of the virus is the halting of production of Eastenders and other soaps that have passed their sellby dates , have scrolled through some of the comments all of which hope the production break is permanent. Hopefully someone at the Beeb takes heed. I thinks not.

I'm no fan of these kind of programs but the fact is they still have strong audience figures and there are a lot of jobbing actors involved who have families and bills just like the rest of us. I'm the first to give the Beeb a bit of a kicking, but wishing misfortune on popular entertainment at this time seems a bit unfair.
That's not a personal dig Tenhens, more an observation at the trolls that lurk under the articles :)
Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: Growster... on March 19, 2020, 07:20
I'm sure that the Gardening and Allotment Reporting staff on the Eastenders publicity department will be in touch with you very soon, P1P!

I have to confess that I have actually watched an episode of the prog once!

It was the first one...
Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: Longshanks on March 19, 2020, 07:47
You can't go if you're in isolation, but otherwise, carry on as usual until we're in lockdown. Take care when meeting others, but it's probably not much worse than going to the shops.
Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: WeavingGryphon on March 19, 2020, 08:17

Well France is in lock down now all I have to occupy my time is the garden... place will be like the hanging gardens of Babylon by the time the crisis is over ! Seriously though stay safe people.

The local plant sale will probably be stopped, we're growing for that and were planning growing seeds for a few of the kid's friends to grow on-you get loads in a packet and they only last so long. A friend assists in a local food bank and we were planning to give her a few chilli plants (spot me giving the plants away before the seeds have arrived) to share the fruit with people coming in. But now we can't meet up to hand over the plants and the food bank won't allow anything like that. The elderly are hiding from people when they are going to the shop. I thought that they were having a problem or waiting for a car to come, they were probably waiting for me to go away. I've tried to offer help to a neighbour "if you need anything or any help just let us know" and I offended her.

Just everything is closing in.
Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: New shoot on March 19, 2020, 10:21
You can't go if you're in isolation, but otherwise, carry on as usual until we're in lockdown. Take care when meeting others, but it's probably not much worse than going to the shops.

I went to my plot yesterday.  I saw one of our seniors and we had a chat, over a safe distance of course.  He was planing to come at less busy times, keep a few paces away from everyone else and just follow the basic rules on hand washing.  He is over 70,  but fit as a flea and he wants this part of his routine to carry on as long as he feels safe doing it  :)
Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: johnjsdb on March 19, 2020, 15:14
When at the allotment I carry an 8ft cane with me just in case ;)
Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: jmc1949 on March 19, 2020, 15:19
I am over 70, my husband has cancer and as our allotment site is small (20) I emailed everyone to say I would be coming less frequent and only early in the morning. I went to my plot this morning at 7.30 and was home by 9 and I didn't see anyone + I got a lot of work done.
Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: mumofstig on March 19, 2020, 15:34
Our Council has confirmed there will be no plot inspections until the pandemic is over, so no non-cultivation letters for weedy plots :)
Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: Longshanks on March 19, 2020, 16:48
What about getting food? I think all our supermarkets are ransacked by 8am.
Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: rowlandwells on March 19, 2020, 17:18
Tenhens you definitely have a way with words  :D anyway we are of down the allotments next week to have a go got a bit behind with sowing seeds but been busy at home  re-roofing and re-fitting the potting shed also have a poly tunnel cover to replace asap

but the weather here has been cold and wet more like a November day than March like you replies that i think make good sense
Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: OakR on March 22, 2020, 20:11
I was listening to Boris and co's update tonight, and it felt to me like a lockdown was on the way in the next few days.

On that basis I think tomorrow I'm going to plant out my remaining potatoes, sow some more peas and any onion sets I have left, bring back  some bits from the greenhouse and sow some green manure to cover the rest of the ground.
Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: DHM on March 23, 2020, 06:01
I hope my site doesn't get closed down, the situation I'm in I'm having to use my allotment shed as an office at the moment!

I think any lockdown will most likely be policed by way of a chat and 'words of advice' to start with, anyone 'caught' on the way to their allotment will most likely be allowed on their way.
Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: Potty Plotty Lotty on March 23, 2020, 06:22

I think any lockdown will most likely be policed by way of a chat and 'words of advice' to start with, anyone 'caught' on the way to their allotment will most likely be allowed on their way.

It probably depends on where you are but in Paris there are police everywhere enforcing the lockdown. You have to carry out a form ticking why you are heading out and show your ID and the form or have a 100 euro fine. They stop pedestrians and drivers.

Of course Paris is quite highly populated and this is in a fairly central neighbourhood that my sister in law lives in. Her vlog was quite insightful... 5 of them in a 60m2 apartment...
Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: Longshanks on March 23, 2020, 06:56
I sowed a load of chard, spinach and agretto the other day. I also sowed some carrots and today will put in some parsnips and beetroot. I'm also going to drop in a few tomato seeds, maybe a squashed tomato, and see what happens in the summer. Maybe the watering will be the biggest problem if there's a lock down.
Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: Hampshire Hog on March 23, 2020, 09:06
I went to the plot yesterday and planted my onion sets.
My spuds are still chitting at home but I am holding off planting as it may be too early but also if we do get locked down I would prefer to put them into bags here at home.
Obviously if things are really dire I would at least have new potatoes to eat.
The other thing I have done is order some cherry tomato plants from Thompson Morgan as my local garden centre was right out when I visited. I am also trying to germinate some seeds too but I want to make sure I have a supply of tomatoes this summer.
Good luck
HH
Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: rowlandwells on March 23, 2020, 09:23
i to hope this site doesn't  get closed down because having contact with other members really helps me through each day and because our members are country wide we can get info of whats happening in other places all be it that gardening and talking about gardening and other topics does help pass these dark days especially if we home bound

so lets keep this site going and you all keep safe RW

Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: Comfreypatch on March 23, 2020, 09:54
My daughter and family are in Paris as well, three, soon to be four, of them in an apartment but at least they do have a balcony. Daughter says the air there is so much better now there is no traffic.
Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: jambop on March 23, 2020, 11:18
My daughter and family are in Paris as well, three, soon to be four, of them in an apartment but at least they do have a balcony. Daughter says the air there is so much better now there is no traffic.
Yes Paris has lots of cars that now no longer make the pollution levels high. Not that I am advocating getting rid of cars ... far from it! I live out in the country and a car is an absolute essential tool but so many, though not all, of the people who commute into Paris could use public transport.
Anyway even out here in the sticks it is still noticeable that there is much less traffic on the main road.
In the garden I had two shrubs that had got completely out of control and also had bramble through them so I got the chainsaw out and hacked right through them at ground level. I am using my hand cart to get rid of the waste to the communal garden waste tip and on the way back filling my cart with manure from the farmers yard. He has been spreading and I am just cleaning up the stuff that missed the spreader :D Hard work but rewarding... and what else is there to do? I will have enough to enrich the soil in my seven new raised beds . My spuds are gonna be the size of footballs so they are :lol:
There are many downsides to this lockdown but I am enjoying the garden work I can really see the difference . We are about to get a wee cold snap though so I may have to protect some of my stuff with fleece.
Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: Growster... on March 23, 2020, 15:02
Going back to the original theme, we've just seen mums and dads in the churchyard path behind us with their kids!

Gorgeous to watch and listen to...
Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: goose on March 23, 2020, 18:35
if we do get a lockdown, could allotment associations ask for us to be able to go on a rotation basis?  eg, our plots all have numbers, a spreadsheet for separation and rotation for which days you are able to go, to be away from others, cant be that difficult. and with everyone at home, im sure each association could find someone to come up with a solid plan?  we would be further away from each other on the plots than we are from our neighbours in homes/gardens, plus we are keeping healthy and growing food.

our allotment is HUGE, but i would be happy to draw up a social distancing timetable for my quadrant so we can all continue to do what we love without risk.
Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: al78 on March 23, 2020, 20:50
Sounds like we have a lockdown now. Does that mean I can't go to my allotment even if I will be nowhere near anyone else? I honestly don't know why I bother. The last few years it has been bouts of freak weather, now this ridiculous extreme scenario. What is the point of having a hobby if you are going to get extreme opposition whenever you try and engage in it?
Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: WeavingGryphon on March 23, 2020, 22:01
I was listening to Boris and co's update tonight, and it felt to me like a lockdown was on the way in the next few days.

On that basis I think tomorrow I'm going to plant out my remaining potatoes, sow some more peas and any onion sets I have left, bring back  some bits from the greenhouse and sow some green manure to cover the rest of the ground.

Lockdown has commenced.
Does going to the allotment count as a form of exercise? We almost never see anyone else at our site so it's not like we're having a party up there. Most of the Aberdeen sites are down a road from a big police station so we're easily visible.
Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: juvenal on March 23, 2020, 22:38
I'm proceeding on the basis that my allotment is my only form of exercise. We are allowed a form of exercise. I can stay distant from anyone else by twenty yards.

I shall be down there tomorrow morning on my own, doubtless shouting 'Good morning!' to others doing likewise.

It's worth noting that indoor and outdoor fruit/veg markets are exempted from the restrictions. It's growers like us that won't need to go to those potemtially busy/risky places later in the year.
Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: goose on March 23, 2020, 22:40
I will be devastated if we cannot go, after all, allotments have been there for people to grow food for centuries mainly due to war effors/food shortages.

 I am further apart from people at the allotment than I am in my own back garden. 
im sure that allotment holder opinions are pretty much down the list of priorities of our government right now, I get that, but hopefully, given time, we get the ok to go if we follow serious guidelines, timetables for each plot/distances etc.

i have been living this virus nightmare since December when i got wind of it when i was in the far east and have seen this coming onto our shores for a while and have been trying to prepare my vunerable family members and emailing my MP. 

its too little too late IMHO, but hopefully people will start to realise this is a national emergency, NOT a national holiday and do the right thing.

stay safe. x
Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: OakR on March 23, 2020, 22:53
I was listening to Boris and co's update tonight, and it felt to me like a lockdown was on the way in the next few days.

On that basis I think tomorrow I'm going to plant out my remaining potatoes, sow some more peas and any onion sets I have left, bring back  some bits from the greenhouse and sow some green manure to cover the rest of the ground.

Lockdown has commenced.
Does going to the allotment count as a form of exercise? We almost never see anyone else at our site so it's not like we're having a party up there. Most of the Aberdeen sites are down a road from a big police station so we're easily visible.

I was wondering this myself. I think it might qualify, but I guess we will all have to decide on the risks we are taking, and as if not more importantly, the risks we pose to others by doing this. My personal view is that alloments seem reasonably safe, safer than the streets and parks where people tend to stick to paths. The main contention point is the entrance \ exit points. At mine, assuming I can wipe down the lock \ use gloves etc, I could drive in and park and then walk to my plot easily not going near anyone.

Somewhat ironically after my post, my wife developed a temperature that night, so we've been in lockdown  since Sunday night and nothing got planted and no-one in our family is leaving the house for another 12-13 days til we are all clear. A very kind person has offered to water my toms that I put in the greenhouse there, but that was before the lockdown - I am going to resow but glad I kept roughly half of them here at home so I can keep them going for a while - all minor of course in the context of the bigger picture and gives me a chance to start some bits afresh with the kids which should be nice.
Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: John on March 24, 2020, 00:13
First of all, I hope your wife is OK, OakR - at best a worrying time.

On whether to go to the allotment or not, difficult to know. I suppose claiming it's your exercise might be sufficient. The intent of the new rules are clear - and the cause. Those morons who were crowding the parks and tourist spots at the weekend.
I'd suggest that so long as you can get to and work the allotment keeping at least 2 metres from others then fine to be plotting. I suspect the police have more important worries than allotmenteers. Most police officers are sensible and reasonable although there's always the odd jobsworth. Mind you, now is not the time to try their patience.

Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: snowdrops on March 24, 2020, 07:28
Sounds like we have a lockdown now. Does that mean I can't go to my allotment even if I will be nowhere near anyone else? I honestly don't know why I bother. The last few years it has been bouts of freak weather, now this ridiculous extreme scenario. What is the point of having a hobby if you are going to get extreme opposition whenever you try and engage in it?

I don’t think it’s personal to you al78, 😊
Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: Enfield Glen on March 24, 2020, 07:49
Some Good News!

Mr Gove has just said on the BBC that its perfectly fine to go to our allotments as long as we keep our distance from other people.
Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: Longshanks on March 24, 2020, 07:50
Beat me to it, but this cough won't let me....
Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: John on March 24, 2020, 08:32
Some Good News!

Mr Gove has just said on the BBC that its perfectly fine to go to our allotments as long as we keep our distance from other people.
What time was that? - trying to find it on Iplayer
Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: Enfield Glen on March 24, 2020, 08:48
@7:45
Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: John on March 24, 2020, 09:00
@7:45
Sorry, I assumed it was radio 4 - but it wasn't. What channel?
Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: bayleaf on March 24, 2020, 09:24
Looks like it was on Good Morning Britain so ITV1 according to the BBC rolling report on Covid 19
Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: mumofstig on March 24, 2020, 09:25
It's here John  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tKaFUJwlSKc (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tKaFUJwlSKc)
Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: WeavingGryphon on March 24, 2020, 09:38
It's here John  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tKaFUJwlSKc (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tKaFUJwlSKc)

Thank you so much for posting that.
Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: John on March 24, 2020, 09:46
Thank You!!!  :D
Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: andyww2013 on March 24, 2020, 10:08
Thanks for posting that.  I was planning to stay away from mine in order to respect the rules, even though I personally thought it was pretty low risk. But now it’s classed as an exercise it will be a sanctuary for me during these times

Stay safe everyone.
Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: Ema on March 24, 2020, 10:13
Greatly concerned that the seeds I ordered on Thursday won’t be arriving it will ruin my veg garden teach me for being such a lastmin.com
Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: al78 on March 24, 2020, 10:43
Some Good News!

Mr Gove has just said on the BBC that its perfectly fine to go to our allotments as long as we keep our distance from other people.
What time was that? - trying to find it on Iplayer

Also states that here:

https://uk.yahoo.com/news/uk-lockdown-gove-tries-clarify-092825874.html

"On different types of exercise, he said people would be allowed to run, walk or go to an allotment, but not to do more social activities, such as playing golf."
Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: Ivor Backache on March 24, 2020, 10:54
Regarding comment made by Mr. Gove, I felt that it was a personal one. He has had to chance his stance on children with divorced/separated children.
John: I would imagine that you have contacts with the National Allotment Society, and possibly others who have contacts with Government Departments. Is it please possible that you can obtain a clear policy statement on working on allotments?
Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: juvenal on March 24, 2020, 10:54
Some Good News!

Mr Gove has just said on the BBC that its perfectly fine to go to our allotments as long as we keep our distance from other people.

Excellent news. Thanks for posting link.
Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: mumofstig on March 24, 2020, 11:03

John: I would imagine that you have contacts with the National Allotment Society, and possibly others who have contacts with Government Departments. Is it please possible that you can obtain a clear policy statement on working on allotments?
Today the NSALG posted this
Quote
Following the instructions around movement and gatherings from the Prime Minister on 23 March 2020, we are consulting with central government but as we understand the situation at the moment it is still permitted to visit your plot, ideally on your own to take daily exercise. It is vitally important that you follow all the advice about social distancing and hygiene in the points below and not gather together on site.

I know many Associations have taken decisions to cancel plot inspections, seed swaps, association trips and annual judging; scheduled Committee meetings and AGM’s should also be postponed.  It is important that any plot-holders over 70 years and those with underlying health issues follow the guidance and information issued by the government. ……
 Any plot-holder who is self isolating because a household member is ill with corona-virus should not be visiting the site.
Members should take the following precautionary measures :
•Keep hand sanitiser in your shed and wash your hands regularly
•Use hand sanitiser before opening and closing any gate locks
•Observe “Social Distancing” with each other 2-3 metres
•Do not share tools
•Minimise the contact with each other for example no handshakes
•Do not wash your hands in water troughs
•We recommend that all communal facilities are closed
There is more so here's the link for you to keep an eye on :)
https://www.nsalg.org.uk/news/covid19-information/
Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: John on March 24, 2020, 11:04
Regarding comment made by Mr. Gove, I felt that it was a personal one. He has had to chance his stance on children with divorced/separated children.
John: I would imagine that you have contacts with the National Allotment Society, and possibly others who have contacts with Government Departments. Is it please possible that you can obtain a clear policy statement on working on allotments?
No I don't have any more info than you do - but Michael Gove is a cabinet minister and since he's a contributor to the policy making, I think it reasonable to accept what he says. :) I don't think allotments are too high in the government concerns at the moment. Crowds of morons at the seaside and tourist spots however...
The purpose of all this is to reduce transmission rates. On the BBC last night they showed how if one person infects 2.5 people it ends up as 400 cases in 30 days but halving the infection rate results in just 15 cases. Those of a mathematical mind can check this out!
Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: Christine on March 24, 2020, 11:32
I'm happy that NASGL has run with the advice for now. We've been running with what they have said as our committee and will change the advice when they change the advice. It's cheered our chairman up no end - except that he has taken me up on a misspelling of corvid 19 but as I retorted I was just thinking of the jackdaws who frequent my plot from the houses in the area.
Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: Mr Dog on March 24, 2020, 11:40
No I don't have any more info than you do - but Michael Gove is a cabinet minister and since he's a contributor to the policy making, I think it reasonable to accept what he says. :) I don't think allotments are too high in the government concerns at the moment. Crowds of morons at the seaside and tourist spots however...
The purpose of all this is to reduce transmission rates. On the BBC last night they showed how if one person infects 2.5 people it ends up as 400 cases in 30 days but halving the infection rate results in just 15 cases. Those of a mathematical mind can check this out!

Even more sobering were the numbers quoted by Prof Hugh Montgomery whereby 10 layers of infection with an infection rate of 3 results in 59,000 infections (at 2.5 it would be 9500 - 400 is after around 6.5 layers). A simple explanation of why infections growing at an exponential rate are dangerous is given in this video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fgBla7RepXU&feature=share&fbclid=IwAR1DfvwLdbXMplB1SISQucVWJtU3CCjRvaCPWqaRSwu2laOJK21goz4ah0Y (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fgBla7RepXU&feature=share&fbclid=IwAR1DfvwLdbXMplB1SISQucVWJtU3CCjRvaCPWqaRSwu2laOJK21goz4ah0Y)
On a lighter note calculate how long your stash of toilet roll will last www.thepooptool.com (http://www.thepooptool.com)

Edit: for comparison flu has a transmission rate of about 1.4 meaning 10 layers of transmission result in 29 infections!
Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: Ivor Backache on March 24, 2020, 16:53
Thank you John and Mumofstig for your replies. I am the secretary of a small allotment society, and whereas I don't see a problem with working an allotment, as per guild lines, I am struggling with the word 'gathering'. So only two people can work the allotments. For us that's 17 full plots  and I could prepare a 'timetable' . What happens when there are 117  and some are even bigger. Would  the gathering in that public space is still be confined to two people, or is each allotment it own public space. It doesn't help when my plot is directly behind the police station. I have written to my MP, so I will circulate any reply that I receive.

On a lighter note calculate how long your stash of toilet roll will last Coronavirus poop calculator - How long will your toilet paper last? (http://www.thepooptool.com) . What's the going rate for second hand Daily Mails?
Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: mumofstig on March 24, 2020, 17:36
The way I have understood what was said -
Only 2 people can be together, so 2 on their plot would be ok - but if the people from 2 plots got closer together, for a chat or to share a flask of tea, it would become a gathering - which is banned in public places.
Surely an allotment is a largish open space, similar to a park where more than 2 people are allowed to walk in it, at any time, but they must keep a good distance between themselves, and mustn't meet up and make it a gathering.
It's all about  making sure that there is sufficient distance between people to avoid spreading the virus.

I was having a chat with my plot neighbour this morning, but we were shouting at each other with a good 10ft between us :)

I really don't think there's any need for a timetable system - no need to make things more difficult, the NSALG advice is simple enough.
Just remember to keep some distance between you and everybody else and wash your hands/wear gloves ;)
Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: Growster... on March 24, 2020, 17:49
Of course, this will be the year when everyone's cucumber seeds germinate and flourish!

Even cucurbits can read...

;0)
Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: fatbelly on March 24, 2020, 18:37
Thanks for the advice guys, was worried about if we were allowed to go to the plot. Like most on here I am in the middle of sowing my spuds & onions & was concerned that it'd be too late by the time the restrictions were lifted.
Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: WeavingGryphon on March 24, 2020, 21:59
We were up today and there was no one about but most plots have been worked on. Most are in the 70+ age group so I don't know if they will continue to come up.
But there was loads of people out and about walking rather than being deserted like we expected. The vast majority of people out walking were 70+ couples.
Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: AnneB on March 24, 2020, 23:03
Our allotment site of 41 people was relatively busy today, but I put that down to good weather plus no work.
I saw 13 people from 9 plots this afternoon but never got closer than 25 foot from any of them.
Our site is situated inside a public park, but that was very quiet indeed. Only 2 people walking a dog all afternoon.  No children playing.
Round our way people are following the guidelines I am glad to say.
Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: Aunt Sally on March 24, 2020, 23:36
The NSALG have an important page here:

 Covid 19 Emergency Measures (https://www.nsalg.org.uk/news/covid19-information/?fbclid=IwAR3nq_ywCBBL5HJKQ-dUspYZGEPTT7BfNjy6nqRVYZwkI9ZdEdDqrhxeLMc)
Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: Plot 1 Problems on March 24, 2020, 23:38
Our allotment site of 41 people was relatively busy today, but I put that down to good weather plus no work.
I saw 13 people from 9 plots this afternoon but never got closer than 25 foot from any of them.
Our site is situated inside a public park, but that was very quiet indeed. Only 2 people walking a dog all afternoon.  No children playing.
Round our way people are following the guidelines I am glad to say.

My observation is (and I mean no offence to anyone here from our capital) is that the bulk of both the contagion and the wilfull ignorance of guidance is occuring in London. From my own experience here, the vast majority are doing the right thing and anecdotally that's the case in most of the country.
Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: Enfield Glen on March 25, 2020, 08:18
Rocker,
You could be right on that and it could well be that in London there is a lack of community spirit. It could also be that it will always look worse in London due the the density of the population and lack of green space, Worcester has a population of just over 100,000 where as the Borough of Enfield has over 333,000.

I still will be taking care of one of the older plot holders plots whilst he is stuck with his family overseas. He will return to find his potatoes will be in and his beds dug and weeded. I will also sow extra seeds just in case he is away longer.
Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: jambop on March 25, 2020, 08:45
Our allotment site of 41 people was relatively busy today, but I put that down to good weather plus no work.
I saw 13 people from 9 plots this afternoon but never got closer than 25 foot from any of them.
Our site is situated inside a public park, but that was very quiet indeed. Only 2 people walking a dog all afternoon.  No children playing.
Round our way people are following the guidelines I am glad to say.

My observation is (and I mean no offence to anyone here from our capital) is that the bulk of both the contagion and the wilfull ignorance of guidance is occuring in London. From my own experience here, the vast majority are doing the right thing and anecdotally that's the case in most of the country.

The problem is that some people will just not be told! I have just finished reading about a group of about twenty people in Coventry who were having a BBQ and refused to stop when asked by the Police ! I was talking with a friend on the phone the other day who told me that at the weekend the weather was really nice in Edinburgh and the local parks were full of people. The same in Paris they were carrying on as though there was no danger at all. Then the government stepped in and imposed fines for those ignoring the law...seems to be working.
Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: Tenhens on March 25, 2020, 20:58
Youths have been caught by police in Derbyshire have been returned to their parents who were then stung with £250 fine.   
Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: WeavingGryphon on March 25, 2020, 21:39
They've stopped the green waste and recycling uplift here.  :(
But they've also had all the council workers gathering up the rubbish buried in hedges. I've never seen the place look so clean.
Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: juvenal on March 25, 2020, 23:15
Our local tip/recycling plant in Poole has just closed. I hope it doesn't signal an epidemic of fly tipping...
Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: Pauly1958 on March 26, 2020, 03:45
Our local tip/recycling plant in Poole has just closed. I hope it doesn't signal an epidemic of fly tipping...
hope not fly tipping is bad up here to start with
Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: JayG on March 26, 2020, 12:38
Looks like those like me who have relied on B&Q for Verve compost for several years might be out of luck for the foreseeable future - the stores are of course closed and their multipurpose compost is unavailable for either home delivery or click and collect in both the 50L and 125L sizes (didn't look at the smaller sizes as they're not much use to me.)  :(
Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: mumofstig on March 26, 2020, 13:30
Have you got a Wickes near you? they are still delivering :)
Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: JayG on March 26, 2020, 15:42
Thanks mum - Wickes MP compost 50L looks quite decent, but, despite registering, can't find the 'Add to basket' button for the life of me (perhaps not taking orders for delivery at the moment, or more likely I need a lie down!)
Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: mumofstig on March 26, 2020, 16:08
Ooh that's changed, I checked before I posted and it was ok then. Suggest you do as it says and phone your local branch to see if they have any in stock - mines supposed to be being delivered Thursday 2nd April. Fingers crossed  ::)
Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: JayG on March 26, 2020, 16:13
Can you remember what the delivery charge was (and for how many?)

Wouldn't want to be paying more for the delivery than the compost!  :ohmy:
Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: mumofstig on March 26, 2020, 16:20
 ::) I ordered 8 bags (it was on special last week) and paid £7.95 for delivery - I don't drive any more so this seems a reasonable price for delivery to my door, other companies have been known to want to leave it at the end of the footpath (no road along the Terrace).
Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: JayG on March 27, 2020, 16:57
The 'deal' just got worse - no 3 for £10 now (£4 each for 50L) - not that you can order it anyway!  ::)
Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: WeavingGryphon on March 28, 2020, 14:20
We need to go get manure from a garden centre. 6x chicken pellets for the plot and garden.
Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: Christine on March 28, 2020, 16:08
The local garden centres are decimated around here. The small one which has a good plants man in Hexham is closed for the duration. The other, larger and cheaper one in Hexham is wearing a notice that says they are closed till further notice and can't do deliveries till they have clarified the situation whatever that means. There's a small husband and wife team in the next village taking telephone orders which they will deliver to the garden gate so long as you stay out of the way. My favoured garden centre is trialling taking orders by email, phoning you for delivery address and payment by card then delivering to your garden gate so long as you stay out of the way. The allotment association Hut was going to sort out deliveries by phone and email by the store keeper has been told to self isolate for 12 weeks by the doctor. The allotment association will survive most likely. However not sure about the other three.
Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: WeavingGryphon on March 29, 2020, 17:37
There's a small husband and wife team in the next village taking telephone orders which they will deliver to the garden gate so long as you stay out of the way.

That's what our garden centre of choice is doing (the other is closed), you pay over the phone, they put it in their car park, and then hide while you pick it up. they then take the next order out.
But they are limited in what they can sell. Only essential things so no misters (I was after one but they aren't essential and the NHS bought them all), no ornamental plants, only veg seed, some tools, compost and manure. I might have missed some things, he was run ragged and verbally sprinting.
Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: Mr Dog on April 02, 2020, 13:56
Getting eerily close here - plot holder from my site sadly died of Covid yesterday.

The lock on his gate has already been forced open, I truly despair of some......
Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: snowdrops on April 02, 2020, 18:32
Getting eerily close here - plot holder from my site sadly died of Covid yesterday.

The lock on his gate has already been forced open, I truly despair of some......

That is dreadful, I hope karma comes & bites them in the derrière  :unsure:
Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: Mr Dog on April 02, 2020, 18:51
Getting eerily close here - plot holder from my site sadly died of Covid yesterday.

The lock on his gate has already been forced open, I truly despair of some......

That is dreadful, I hope karma comes & bites them in the derrière  :unsure:

Yes, I'm not even going to give them the benefit of doubt that it was someone getting in to care for his chickens as he was one of a group who can access each others plots through shared keys.
Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: WeavingGryphon on April 03, 2020, 12:49
Yes, I'm not even going to give them the benefit of doubt that it was someone getting in to care for his chickens as he was one of a group who can access each others plots through shared keys.

Oh no, are the chickens okay?
Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: Mr Dog on April 03, 2020, 14:50
Oh no, are the chickens okay?

Yes, they are being looked after by others - the gate had been re-locked today. One sad thing is that we won't be able to pay our respects at his funeral.
Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: WeavingGryphon on April 04, 2020, 16:39
Yes, they are being looked after by others - the gate had been re-locked today. One sad thing is that we won't be able to pay our respects at his funeral.

That's a relief, I hope they are coping with being rehomed. 
You can have a later ceremony to remember him and make a posy out of your own flowers since the flower shops are closed. It would probably mean more.


Today both neighbours are totally ignoring the 2m rule among all the other rules. One has someone over working on the house and they are standing too close. Both to each other and some other random man who showed up.

The ones on the other side are having a party. They are still working, but their friends aren't so they are all over here. For the 3rd time this week.
Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: Growster... on April 04, 2020, 18:08
Mrs Growster and I were planning to visit a daught for her birthday tomorrow.

Of course, that's off now, but while we said we'd take her present over to her and celebrate as in normal times, we always included taking a bottle and a decent card as well!

Guess who completely forgot the post...

:0(

Luckily, she is head of IT at her firm, and has devised a three-way Ipad chat for her staff, and we'll try and use that...

Watch this space - we may all be doing it, but I'll need to get a haircut first..:0)
Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: Blackpool rocket on April 06, 2020, 21:36
I sincerely hope Boris pulls through, ICU isn't a place I would want to be.

He's been working himself to a frazzle the past weeks and it's taken its toll. My thoughts are with him and his family, as they are with anyone who has been touched by this terrible place we find ourselves.

Pointless sentiment but, be strong Boris.

Br

Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: WeavingGryphon on April 08, 2020, 08:30
Is anyone else dreaming of being movement restricted or locked in? I am.
I'm dreaming of trying to get cooking ingredients and not being allowed to the shop because I've already had my walk. Panic PANIC.
Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: WeavingGryphon on April 08, 2020, 09:06
Found this on the BBC, how to care for someone with Covid.

-20200408-[bbcnews_howtocareforsomeonewithcovid19athome_newshealthcvd]]
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/av/health-52161088/coronavirus-how-do-you-care-for-someone-at-home?xtor=ES-211-[31134_PANUK_SOT_WK14_CNV_SendBCNV1to4Openers_RET]-20200408-[bbcnews_howtocareforsomeonewithcovid19athome_newshealthcvd] (https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/av/health-52161088/coronavirus-how-do-you-care-for-someone-at-home?xtor=ES-211-[31134_PANUK_SOT_WK14_CNV_SendBCNV1to4Openers_RET)
Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: Growster... on April 08, 2020, 14:17
One of the more extraordinary consequences of CV, is that I actually mowed the lawn with a small hand-mower yesterday, as I'm nearly out of petrol!

I also did the kerbage area outside the Turrets, just to make the place look nice, but I could easily show off my winter-white legs on the third day of wearing shorts in this glorious weather!

Luckily, there were only three cars and a van passing by, and nobody 'tooted'!
Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: WeavingGryphon on April 09, 2020, 09:56
One of the more extraordinary consequences of CV, is that I actually mowed the lawn with a small hand-mower yesterday, as I'm nearly out of petrol!

I also did the kerbage area outside the Turrets, just to make the place look nice, but I could easily show off my winter-white legs on the third day of wearing shorts in this glorious weather!

Luckily, there were only three cars and a van passing by, and nobody 'tooted'!

Toot toot (so you don't feel neglected).
Isn't fuel at it's cheapest? Fill it up.


I'm looking at buying a trolley wagon thing for the shopping (long term) and for taking the kids on walks. they can get in when they are tired or bored. I like going out for 2-3 hours and they can't cope, I can't cope with not getting my exercise. The wagon apparatus things can carry up to 150Kg
Having said that they'll spend most of their time in it because they are a lazy wee pair of tripes.
Title: Re: coronavirus and its consequences
Post by: Growster... on April 09, 2020, 14:30
"Toot toot (so you don't feel neglected)."

Thanks sooo much, Weavers, I feel really refreshed!

Back in the day when 'booze cruises' were popular, and ferries to Boulogne were cheap, we bought one online (standard orange contraption, lots of funny wheels and a useless sack-holder), and used it several times...

I still do but the Chateau Plonk and cheap 5% beer has been replaced with Jack's Magic, and the odd coal sack...