In theory, it is spring – something to be cheerful about after all the bad weather.

Another storm is just blowing itself out as I write. Met Éireann still thinks there is more broken weather to follow. Hard not to feel gloomy about this, with not much sign of ploughing in our sunny southeast.

However, I have plenty of daffodils in full flower to lift the spirits. They are not much use to wildlife, but there are also plenty of crocuses in bloom and their pollen is a welcome food for awakening queen bumble bees and their brood. I have seen none so far but others have.

Switching to organics

The March issue of BBC Wildlife magazine has an interesting piece on the real cost of so-called cheap food. But the author queries the down-the-line costs.

They cite the large cost of removing pesticides, nitrates and phosphates from water. They then move on to organic farming and also other schemes such as Conservation Grade.

I think we should stick to organic in this country or the whole issue becomes confusing. With farm incomes declining, should we not all seriously look at converting to organic?

Those who have done so seem to be happy with the prices obtained. They win, and of course the environment wins. Some surveys have shown that organic produce tastes the same as normal food. I beg to differ as the same surveys ignore the health advantages and ignore the benefits to the environment. Surveys in the UK and here have shown bird life bouncing back on organic farms.

Hedge-laying

Our hedge-laying day went well. We were lucky to have a fine day and I think all participants went home happy. It was a hands-on event and everyone had a chance to lay a piece of hedge. Luckily there were no accidents. I did not even have to apply a sticking plaster.

We hope to run this course again in November. Please let me know if you might be interested in attending. I would also love some feedback on my articles and am open to all suggestions.