Dear reader,
There’s nothing quite like being outdoors, even in the coldest winter days, and perhaps being outside is something that benefits us even more in the shorter months.
Tons of research backs this up, which is why the Greenspace project in Nottingham is such a welcome development. Greenspace is all about improving people’s mental health through nature-based activities, and we are one of the first ‘Trusted providers’ of this scheme. You can read more about our plans for the project here.
Best wishes,Holly
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Foraging workshop
This workshop will be a relaxing and practical morning gathering food for free. The workshop will be led by Paul Paine, a local forager. Depending on the arrival of Spring, we’ll be gathering wild garlic, nettles, jack by the hedge, hairy bittercress, fat hen and hawthorn leaves.
To find out more and to book, visit Eventbrite.
On the Orchard
You can book onto upcoming free events at the Community Orchard here:Community Open Day, Saturday 22 January, 12-3pmNew Shoots for ages 0-4, Every Tuesday morning 9:30-11am in term time
Volunteering
If you’ve thought about volunteering this new year as a way to meet people, get out, get fit, learn new skills, or connect with nature then you might want to come along and try one of our sessions.Tuesdays at the Nursery, 10:00-14:00Wednesdays at the Heritage Display Garden, 10:00-14:00Induction for new volunteers, Tuesday 18 January, 10:00-12:00Winter woodland management, Saturday 22 January, 10:00-14:00If you have any questions about volunteering, please contact Lucy at volunteering@staa-allotments.org.uk
On the blog
Last month on the blog, Paul explained why onions used to be a prized-stocking filler, and shared a sad tale of a young boy living on the Hungerhills in 1867. Read all about it: https://staa-allotments.org.uk/newsIf you’d like to write a blog, get in touch at holly@staa-allotments.org.uk
Support nature in your garden
January is a great time to help garden birds by putting out food, and clearing out/putting up nest boxes for the Spring. Many species will start scoping out potential nesting sites now, and you may hear more birds singing as they claim their territories. The annual RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch takes place between 28-30th January. All you need is one hour to sit and record the birds that visit your garden. There are free resources on the RSPB website to help with identification.If you’re thinking about putting up a nestbox, the BTO has produced a guide to help you choose.
