At last, the first signs of spring are here

Bean feast: it’s early, but broad beans are among the first to go into the ground. Photograph: Allan Jenkins

A sunny day in February, though still chill. The ponds have defrosted and we are hoping to soon be seeing baby frogs. Howard and I are here to hoe. There is a broad bean bed to get ready, and the rest of the plot to prep.

We will leave most of the self-sown poppy plants; much of the chervil, too. The ragged kale and the purple frills mustard are thrusting on despite the cool nights.