Food Production
We have attempted to use as much of the garden at the Painted Fish for vegetable production as we can. Shani grew up growing her own vegetables in Canada, but we are still learning about the seasons, soil and pests in Fremantle. Neither of us are gardeners and we still have a lot to learn. Shani finds Diggers Seed Club and the Organic Growers Association great support. And there is a lot to be said for trial and error!
We find it really satisfying to be able to wander out of the front door or down the street and make a salad fresh from the garden. And, despite quite limited space, we have gone for nearly 12 months without buying veges from the shops.
Despite water restrictions, producing your own food is much more water efficient—David Holgrem suggests it is about six times more water efficient than commercially grown food. Other benefits include reduced carbon emissions, fossil fuel use, the ability to recycle waste into compost and the obvious health benefits of eating organic food (and digging in the garden!).
After using a home made solar drier last year, this summer w
e found the dashboard of Tim’s ute and a cake cooling rack worked just as well. Consequently we have a great store of sun dried cherry tomatoes. And Shani has discovered the joys of home preserving using an old fashioned fowlers vacola kit. You can check out Shani’s preserving at our home at 21 Hulbert Street.
Growing on the street
wooden beds on our neighbours verges, fruit trees on our verge, and two “guerrilla gardens” – make sure you check them out on the cycle way east and west of Hulbert Street.
Obi, our neighbour was recently overheard saying to his mum – “Tim and Shani are taking over our street – one vegetable at a time!”
