THE ALCHEMIST GARDEN - MAY

My second compilation of notes and observations from my sanctuary. 

An opportunity to remember, reflect, observe, and mindfully learn from our mutually platonic relationship with Mama earth.

HERB ROBERT

(Geranium robertianum) grows in dry, exposed places, such as crevices in walls and pavements.

This plant has crept up and entwined itself within our veg beds. Despite their pretty pink little flowers, we had to take some of them out to ensure our veggies thrive.

Herb Robert has quite a distinctive smell, unpleasant to some. When rubbed onto the skin it is said to act as a mosquito repellent. It acts as an insect and animal deterrent making it a good companion plant for our vegetables. So we left these beauties to grow abundantly and free just outside our raised beds.

Some people eat the fresh leaves of Herb Robert in salad. The leaves and the flowers can be used to make tea. In herbalism, it's said to aid toothache and heal wounds.

Other common names are - red robin, death come quickly, storksbill, fox geranium, stinking Bob and crow's foot

COMPOST THRONE

We had an exceptionally large clear out today and finally started a sufficient sized compost heap. By directly recycling our organic matter, we are literally turning our trash into treasure, perfect to help our royal seedlings thrive this summer.

DEAR GINGER

Sorry I forgot about you at the back of my cupboard. Luckily for me you have started to sprout! So I'm going to carefully plant you in a little pot and throw you back to Mama Nature and she will help you flourish into a bigger, stronger and better plant. See you soon!

Love from your forgetful owner x

STRAWBABIES ARE TURNING RED

Fruits of our labour, ready to pick tomorrow!

TODAY'S HARVEST

We managed to gather a few sticks of delicious asparagus. Our garden is overrun with mint and sage so we have cut some bulky bunches for the second round of sage bundles, tea, tinctures and for our dinner. Yes...we made that clichéd mistake of planting the mint directly into the veg bed, and three years later, it's still seeking attention everywhere! We also shared it with our neighbours (because we actually like them!) Even after lockdown is over, please remember to be kind to one another. Please selflessly help each other, even in the littlest of ways. This situation has brought many people together. I even find myself literally smiling at everyone who walks past my house and they smile back! The bonding power of social distancing! 💚

Follow us on Instagram for more updates from our sanctuary! @thelondonalchemists

Moni Dajee, founder of The London Alchemists - artist, creator, explorer, beekeeper and avid practitioner of natural alchemy.