Farm life - busy bees

Farm Life - busy bees

by Roger Hill

May is such a busy month to look forward to. A Coronation to begin with, an event that few of us have witnessed before - congratulations King Charles III. We are celebrating in our village culminating with Abba (tribute!) performing in our pub garden.

We also have the start of the agricultural show season (see page 8 - Devon County Show preview), cricket in full swing and dare I mention Eurovision. In between all this it is a crucial month on many farms. Cutting grass for silage at the optimum sugar level, combining quality with quantity, ensures a successful following winter. Sheep shearing is also in full swing (photo opposite). I watch others now having done my fair share, but I still enjoy the spectacle.

Our vineyard bursts into life with the only worry being a late frost which can devastate the young buds. Flowers erupt providing nectar for our buzzy friends. Queen bees sometimes lead their troops to pastures new so if you happen across them, don’t panic. Contact a beekeeper who will be more than happy to help especially as ‘a swarm in May is worth a load of hay’.

Another saying my mum taught me was ‘don’t cast a clout until May is out’, so be warned! Busy days ahead.

‘Til next time, Roger #TuppertheTractor (website: quoit-at-cross.co.uk)

Gathering sheep for shearing