I built my first fence the other day. Using young hazel sticks, harvested last the autumn, I created this stunning curve to keep the raspberries in place.

Well, I consider it stunning. Not quite up to Monty’s standards I suspect. In his construction, he combined sturdy hazel sticks with chestnut posts, which last a very long time.

While it stands, I will use my new fence to grow peas. Apparently, hazel with its rough surface makes the ideal pea stick. And as a vegetable gardener I need any help I can get.