Editorial Spring 2013

Written by Nell Merionwen

2013 is romping along with gusto.

Here we are at the beginning of spring already.

With bracing weather and promise of the year's harvests it is time to breath life back into the plots. Have a look here for an idea of what is to be done in March to get the best from the land you have. We have articles a plenty even if you are starting from scratch with a new allotment. If, however the land you have is diminutive in stature then don't lose heart. With this article you can see that having your own home grown in the kitchen is still a good goal to aspire to. In fact, we at downsizer believe that you can still eat your own home grown goodies even if you have no garden at all.

So come on, pull on those gloves and get stuck in.

Of course, we at downsizer are not just about growing your own. We also like to raise our own, and believe you can too. From raising your own chickens, an introduction to Beekeeping, or even first time lambing we are here to help with the assistance of our many resident experts.

We can even assist you in how to deal with the animal before it comes to the table. From butchery to a recipe database we have helpful information on it all.

It's not all about filling our bellies though. We also cater for the crafter in you. From aspiring knitters to breathing a new lease of life into that much loved piece of furniture; it is all within your grasp with our make your own section. You too could become a wizz with your hands.

Never far from our minds are the downsizer ideals of conservation and environment. We can assist you to tread more lightly on the planet. From cutting petrol consumption by jumping on your bike, to promoting essential flora and fauna with a wildlife garden it is all possible.

And once you have browsed the articles and found inspiration please sign up and share your ideas on our friendly forum. You will be made to feel most welcome.

Thanks to colour it green, Shan, Mochyn, SandraR, Sally too, sally_in_wales, Jamanda, tai haku and Barefoot Andrew for the pics above.