The Kitchen Garden

July/August 2006

Have you never seen your hens sunbathing? Lying with one wing spread and one leg stretched to catch the rays, all they're really missing is a pair of Raybans. Although a little sun does us all good, birds don't really thrive in hot weather.

Make sure that there is plenty of shade in the run. Without trees and shrubs, you will have to resort to canopies, tarpaulins or bamboo panels. Out in the garden, your flock will soon find a shady spot, but keep an eye on them anyway. Waterfowl suffer especially from heatstroke.

Water must be available, and changed regularly. You'll probably notice increased consumption by your hens, especially if all their little private drinking spots around the garden have dried up.

Itchy parasites, like mites and lice may prove to be a problem. I use Johnson's caged bird spray from the petshop, which although not licensed for poultry, is very effective. Discard any eggs your hens may lay for the next 36 hours, though.

Enjoy your birds and the fine weather.

PS. The Henkeepers' Association is now a free information network, sponsored by the Kitchen Garden. Check it out and subscribe free online at www.henkeepersassociation.co.uk - HELP US KEEP THE HOBBY ALIVE

WHAT'S ON

COURSES

Counting your Chickens - All this years Henkeeping Courses are fully booked, but Francine will hold individual Beginners' Days for 2 or more people. Choose a date to suit yourself (not Friday or Saturday) and learn all you need to know to start, especially tailored to your needs. Including lunch £75.00 per person.

Knowing your Onions - October 18th at 10am to 3.30pm with Francine Raymond & Penelope Hands. Growing and cooking unusual vegetables. Design your kitchen garden, choose yourseed and plants and you will harvest, cook and eat your own produce. On-site advice for beginners and know-alls alike. Sample a selection of seasonal fruit and vegetables for lunch. £75.00 including a delicious home-cooked lunch and wine.

Cheque payment in full required on booking please. Refunds (minus £20.00 admin charge) offered for cancellatons within a month of the course date, but we suggest if you can't make it you try to find a friend to take your place. If we have to cancel, you will of course receive a full refund.

Call 01359 268322 to book places on the above courses.

JOIN THE HENKEEPERS' ASSOCIATION - FREE ONLINE SUBSCRIPTION

A website-based information/advice service. To support those who keep poultry; to lobby for the vaccination of small garden flocks; to protect our hens and families from avian flu. Subscribe free online at www.henkeepersassociation.co.uk or join on the day and HELP US KEEP THE HOBBY ALIVE.