Bad timing

[northmaid]

Why, oh why do things happen at the most inconvenient times? Having just taken over the half plot adjacent to my original half and fully prepared to start on the mountain of work needed to get it in some sort of shape, what happens but I suffer a detached retina and after an operation. am confined indoors with strict instructions not to lift anything or even raise my head for more than 10 minutes in every hour for at least the next two weeks. I've managed to contact a fellow plot holder to see to the greenhouse watering but am so frustrated that there is so much planting and sowing still to do down on the plot and I'm stuck here feeling helpless. Aargh!
I realise I'm lucky that it isn't more serious but know that even when the two weeks is up I will still be limited in what I can do. I'm feeling this year will be a bit of a washout as far as crops go. Is there anything I can start off on he kitchen windowsill that will be appropriate to plant out in say a couple of months time when hopefully I'll be back to something like normal?
Have to go now as my ten minutes are up.

[janeyo]

you could sow some psb and sprouts maybe

Oh and hope you heal up quick

Sounds painful x

[bearded bloke]

Thats a blow,how about some all year round Cauliflower

[Patchninja]

I feel for you.Patience will bring the best results even if it IS hard to put up with.

[Mikey]

Been there, and understand exactly how you feel. Over the last two years I've had three surgeries on my leg one in april, and two in june, all leaving me little time on my allotment when you want it most. All I can say is don't stress over it, and when you are able to potter work with what you can get in, lettuce, peas, winter veg. Don't worry too much about watering, your veg will search out there own. I doubt this dry spell we are having will last indefinitely.

You have to accept that you will not be able to achieve everything you want to do, but what might be in your reach are some pots around the house, herbs, carrots, anything you fancy. Pots can be tended in minutes and would help no end with that overwhelming feeling that you are missing out.

If possible get someone to cover the beds which haven't been started and accept that these are out of reach for this season, but at least this way they won't be covered in weeds come next year.

Good luck

[Headfry]

Poor you, please take it easy and get well soon!

[SarzWix]

Excellent advice there from Mikey, having been in the same position as him re. broken bones...

It IS frustrating, but, getting frustrated doesn't change the situation, so you just have to accept it... If you have ground ready to plant in, but nothing to plant, order in some plants. If you have ground that isn't ready, get it covered - set your OH or family on the job, collecting cardboard or weedblock. For all else, just write it off for now. It's only one season, and healing yourself is for the long term good

Oh, and I invested in a netbook when I was laid-up - it was definitely worth the outlay... Perhaps someone could loan you one (or a Smartphone) for a couple of weeks? They're small enough to sit on your chest when you're lying down

[Aberdeenplotter]

North, be sure to let your fellow plotter know the calamity that has befallen you. I know that on our site we are very happy to help those in difficulty

[Florence Fennel]

How rotten for you. You're going to have to be a patient patient. All the advice above is good stuff. Hope you feel better very, very soon.

[Hillwalker]

Hi Northmaid,

I do sympathise. I had a detached retina last September and know exactly what you're going through. It's going to get very boring and frustrating over the next 14 days, but don't be tempted to extend the 10 minutes away from the head down period, you'll only regret it. Let the bubble do its job.

Someone's probably suggested this at the hospital: you can try rigging up a mirror to watch TV.

Best wishes for the healing process.