H & H Preserves: BlogBloghttp://hnh.net.au/Tue, 19 Mar 2024 02:24:53 GMTurn:store:1:blog:post:23http://hnh.net.au/2023-harvest-sarting-to-happen2023 Harvest Starting To Happen<p>We finally got some spring weather, be it in Dec 2022, and now we are finally getting some summer weather.</p> <p>The cool nights through Nov/Dec 22 meant our seedlings were bedded back into the greenhouse most nights, with planting out only occurring during mid to late Dec. Even then, our gherkins and zucchinis suffered some set backs due to some late cool days and nights and have only now (early Jan 23) got into production, see gherkins and zucchinis picked today.</p> <p><img src="/images/uploaded/First Gherkins 23.jpeg" alt="" width="472" /></p> <p><img src="/images/uploaded/First Zucc 23_1000.jpeg" alt="" width="472" /></p> <p> The zucchini beds are now looking good, hopefully a long and fruitful Jan and Feb and hopefully Mar ...</p> <p><img src="/images/uploaded/Zucc 23_1000.jpeg" alt="" width="472" /> </p> <p>Our heirloom tomatoes are starting to fruit...</p> <p><img src="/images/uploaded/Tomatoes 23_1000.jpeg" alt="" width="472" /></p> <p> And another bumper beetroot harvest is about to be made with those beauties soon to be turned into our delicioius pickled beetroot and beetroot relish...</p> <p><img src="/images/uploaded/Beetroots 23_1000.jpeg" alt="" width="280" /> <img src="/images/uploaded/Beetroot to Harvest 23_1000.jpeg" alt="" width="285" /></p> <p>This year we have created a new garden, the "woodshed garden" so we can increase our production of pickled gherkins, gherkin relish and our chilli sauces..</p> <p><img src="/images/uploaded/New Garden Beds 23_1000.jpeg" alt="" width="472" /></p> <p>Our garlic (goes into most of our delicious products) has been picked and is currently drying...</p> <p><img src="/images/uploaded/Garlic 23.jpeg" alt="Garlic Drying" width="472" /></p> <p>Given the winter, spring and early summer conditions (cool and wet) and the prospect of not getting any produce planted and growing, we are now hopeful...</p>urn:store:1:blog:post:22http://hnh.net.au/2022-tomato-harvest-commences2022 Tomato Harvest Commences<p>It has been a slow and worrying start to the 2022 season, the cool wet spring followed by a cool wet summer has had a significant impact on our tomato growing.  The last week or so has given us some sunshine and temperatures consistently into the high 20's which has got the tomatos ripening, and so the first harvest for the season has now taken place ....</p> <p><img src="/images/uploaded/First harvest 2022 30-jan.jpeg" alt="" width="472" height="329" /></p> <p>The gherkins have been fruiting, even though the lack of bees in early January were a worry. However, the eucalyptus have flowered this year and that seems to have attracted the bees.  This has been good for both the gherkins and zucchinis, with a good harvest well and truely now in swing, in fact, another large batch of pickled zucchinis is underway...</p> <p> <img src="/images/uploaded/Zucchini batch jan 2022_1000.jpeg" alt="" width="472" /></p> <p> And a batch gherkins being sorted before being pickled...</p> <p><img src="/images/uploaded/Gherkins Jan 2022.jpeg" alt="" width="472" /></p> <p>The cooler start to the season also meant that our serrano chillies were late into the ground, we are only now seeing the fruit appearing, we might have to finish them off under a "polytunnel" if we look like getting early frosts...</p> <p><img src="/images/uploaded/Chillies 2022-01-30 v2_1000.jpeg" alt="" width="472" /></p> <p>Here's hoping for slow end of summer and a long autumn.</p> <p> </p> <p> </p>urn:store:1:blog:post:21http://hnh.net.au/xmas-basket-display-at-the-crookwell-emporiumXMAS BASKET DISPLAY AT THE CROOKWELL EMPORIUM<p><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="/images/uploaded/25-11-21 30 days until Xmas.jpeg" alt="" width="304" height="138" /></p> <div data-block="true" data-editor="6vdkb" data-offset-key="78rig-0-0"> <div class="_1mf _1mj" style="text-align: center;" data-offset-key="78rig-0-0">You<span data-offset-key="78rig-1-0"> should take a trip to Crookwell and visit the Crookwell Emporium, 100 Goulburn Street, Crookwell. </span></div> </div> <div style="text-align: center;" data-block="true" data-editor="6vdkb" data-offset-key="1imql-0-0"> <div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="1imql-0-0"><span data-offset-key="1imql-0-0"> </span></div> </div> <div style="text-align: center;" data-block="true" data-editor="6vdkb" data-offset-key="58b3u-0-0"> <div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="58b3u-0-0"><span data-offset-key="58b3u-0-0">H&amp;H have set up a Xmas Basket display with baskets ranging from $35 to $55 and if you would like a different combination of products, just let us know and we can make it to your specific needs.</span></div> </div> <div style="text-align: center;" data-block="true" data-editor="6vdkb" data-offset-key="7qjd8-0-0"> <div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="7qjd8-0-0"><span data-offset-key="7qjd8-0-0"> </span></div> </div> <div style="text-align: center;" data-block="true" data-editor="6vdkb" data-offset-key="3p2ng-0-0"> <div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="3p2ng-0-0"><span data-offset-key="3p2ng-0-0">Whilst your there take the time to look around the beautiful products created by local artisans including Natural Indulgence, Crystal Brook Lavender Farm, The House of Alpaca and many many more, all offering wonderful ideas for your Xmas gifts.</span></div> </div> <div style="text-align: center;" data-block="true" data-editor="6vdkb" data-offset-key="2klco-0-0"> <div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="2klco-0-0"><span data-offset-key="2klco-0-0"> </span></div> </div> <div data-block="true" data-editor="6vdkb" data-offset-key="1tel4-0-0"> <div class="_1mf _1mj" style="text-align: center;" data-offset-key="1tel4-0-0"><span data-offset-key="1tel4-0-0">H&amp;H Preserves will be doing tastings in store on Friday 10th and Saturday 11th December, 2021. So come along and have a taste of our delicious products, before deciding on which Gift Basket would suit that special someone and maybe just for you!</span></div> <div class="_1mf _1mj" style="text-align: center;" data-offset-key="1tel4-0-0"> </div> <div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="1tel4-0-0"><span data-offset-key="1tel4-0-0"><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="/images/uploaded/Emporium Xmas display 25-11-21 (3).jpeg" alt="" width="697" height="892" /></span></div> <div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="1tel4-0-0"> </div> <div class="_1mf _1mj" style="text-align: center;" data-offset-key="1tel4-0-0"><strong><span data-offset-key="1tel4-0-0">Hope the see you at the Crookwell Emporium on the 10th or 11th December, 2021</span></strong></div> </div>urn:store:1:blog:post:20http://hnh.net.au/finally-started-our-plantings-for-20212022-harvestFINALLY STARTED OUR PLANTINGS FOR 2021/2022 HARVEST<p style="text-align: center;">What can you say about the weather here on the Central Tablelands, nothing that would not offend the delicate shell like ears of most.</p> <p style="text-align: center;">Horrendous does just not cut it.   We have waited and waited for the weather to improve during the Spring, but with little hope of that on the horizon we planted out the seedlings from the greenhouse, wished them all the best and crossed fingers.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"> </p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="/images/uploaded/New Plantings Nov 2021 (4).jpeg" alt="New Plantings 2021" width="640" height="480" /></p> <p style="text-align: center;"> </p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/uploaded/New Plantings Nov 2021 (2).jpeg" alt="New Plantings 2021 (2)" width="640" height="480" /></p> <p style="text-align: center;"> </p> <p><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="/images/uploaded/New Plantings Nov 2021 (3).jpeg" alt="New Plantings Nov 21 (3)" width="469" height="626" /></p> <p>.</p> <p style="text-align: center;">We have mulching to finalise and we hope that this latest rain event won't lead down a path of powdery mildew and tomato fungal diseases, but we intrepid gardeners have faith and will see our little seedlings through to the harvest line.</p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p style="text-align: center;">We have had some success with the Garlic crop which was looking very uncertain.  With the massive winter and spring rain, collar rot was a big concern and we waited as long as we could before taking the plants out to dry for a couple of weeks.  They have not been all cleaned and prepared for storage as yet as they were harvested in the pouring rain from sodden soil and will just wait for a week or so to let all the dirt dry to brushing and trimming.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"> </p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="/images/uploaded/Garlic Harvest (1).jpeg" alt="" width="480" height="640" /></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/uploaded/Garlic Harvest (2).jpeg" alt="" width="480" height="640" /></p> <p style="text-align: center;">All in all despite the conditions not a bad harvest and should see us through the harvest season and the new season preserves.</p> <p> </p> <p> </p>urn:store:1:blog:post:19http://hnh.net.au/new-xmas-gift-box-ideaNew Xmas Gift Box Idea<div data-block="true" data-editor="d8tqg" data-offset-key="duche-0-0"> <div class="_1mf _1mj" style="text-align: center;" data-offset-key="duche-0-0"> </div> </div> <div data-block="true" data-editor="d8tqg" data-offset-key="kjja-0-0"> <div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="kjja-0-0"><span data-offset-key="kjja-0-0">We have been working on something different from H&amp;H this Christmas. A very festive Xmas Gable Box of 3 products for $30. </span></div> </div> <div data-block="true" data-editor="d8tqg" data-offset-key="4o22h-0-0"> <div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="4o22h-0-0"><span data-offset-key="4o22h-0-0"> </span></div> </div> <div data-block="true" data-editor="d8tqg" data-offset-key="2vo02-0-0"> <div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="2vo02-0-0"> </div> <div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="2vo02-0-0"><span data-offset-key="2vo02-0-0"><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="/images/uploaded/Xmas Gable Box.jpeg" alt="" width="640" height="480" /></span></div> <div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="2vo02-0-0"> </div> <div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="2vo02-0-0">  </div> <div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="2vo02-0-0"> </div> <div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="2vo02-0-0"> </div> <div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="2vo02-0-0"> </div> <div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="2vo02-0-0"> </div> <div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="2vo02-0-0"> </div> <div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="2vo02-0-0"> </div> <div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="2vo02-0-0"> </div> <div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="2vo02-0-0"> </div> <div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="2vo02-0-0"> </div> <div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="2vo02-0-0"> </div> <div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="2vo02-0-0"> </div> <div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="2vo02-0-0"> </div> <div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="2vo02-0-0"> </div> <div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="2vo02-0-0"> </div> <div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="2vo02-0-0"> </div> <div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="2vo02-0-0"> </div> <div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="2vo02-0-0"> </div> <div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="2vo02-0-0"> </div> <div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="2vo02-0-0"> </div> <div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="2vo02-0-0"> </div> <div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="2vo02-0-0"> </div> <div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="2vo02-0-0"> </div> <div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="2vo02-0-0"> </div> <div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="2vo02-0-0"> </div> <div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="2vo02-0-0"> </div> <div class="_1mf _1mj" style="text-align: center;" data-offset-key="2vo02-0-0">We will be displaying these in the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/CrookwellEmporium/" target="_blank">Crookwell Emporium</a> from mid November if you are browsing the lovely shops in Crookwell looking for some Xmas gift ideas.</div> <div class="_1mf _1mj" style="text-align: center;" data-offset-key="2vo02-0-0"> </div> <div class="_1mf _1mj" style="text-align: center;" data-offset-key="2vo02-0-0"><span data-offset-key="2vo02-0-0">Or, We can deliver to your location if within 100klm of Binda NSW. or send them direct in the post for you if you contact us via our email info@hnh.net.au.</span></div> </div> <div data-block="true" data-editor="d8tqg" data-offset-key="6g7vb-0-0"> <div class="_1mf _1mj" style="text-align: center;" data-offset-key="6g7vb-0-0">Hope you like them!</div> <div class="_1mf _1mj" style="text-align: center;" data-offset-key="6g7vb-0-0"> </div> <div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="6g7vb-0-0"> </div> <div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="6g7vb-0-0"> </div> <div class="_1mf _1mj" style="text-align: center;" data-offset-key="6g7vb-0-0"><strong>Only 52 more sleeps till Christmas from today.  </strong></div> <div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="6g7vb-0-0"> </div> <div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="6g7vb-0-0"> </div> <div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="6g7vb-0-0"> </div> <div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="6g7vb-0-0"> </div> <div class="_1mf _1mj" style="text-align: center;" data-offset-key="6g7vb-0-0"> </div> <div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="6g7vb-0-0"> <img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="/images/uploaded/HoHOhO.jpeg" alt="" width="537" height="329" /></div> </div>urn:store:1:blog:post:18http://hnh.net.au/time-to-think-about-christmas-giftsTIME TO THINK ABOUT CHRISTMAS GIFTS<p><strong><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="/images/uploaded/Xmas Basket advert G Post Dec 20.jpeg" alt="Xmas Gift Baskets" width="1000" height="714" /></strong></p> <p> </p> <h2 style="text-align: center;">H&amp;H can create a beautiful and unique Xmas Gift Basket as a Corporate Gift, to say thank you to a special Teacher, a great Kris Kringle idea or just something different for that someone special.</h2> <h2 style="text-align: center;"><strong>Gift Baskets can be made with your specific combination of H&amp;H products and can be presented in a cane basket, wooden box or cardboard gift box.  </strong></h2> <h2 style="text-align: center;"><strong>Prices will depend on presentation specifics, see below for some examples, but prices are generally based on $30 for three products, $40 for four products and so on.  </strong></h2> <h2 style="text-align: center;"><strong>Delivery can be arranged to Crookwell, Goulburn and surrounding districts.</strong></h2> <h2 style="text-align: center;"><strong>Contact us to discuss your specific requirements.</strong></h2> <h2 style="text-align: center;"> </h2> <p><strong><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="/images/uploaded/Sample H&amp;H Xmas Baskets (2).jpeg" alt="Gift Basket" width="640" height="480" /><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="/images/uploaded/Sample H&amp;H Xmas Baskets.jpeg" alt="Gift basket" width="640" height="480" /></strong></p> <p> </p>urn:store:1:blog:post:17http://hnh.net.au/preparations-begin-for-the-new-season-harvestPreparations Begin for the new season Harvest<p style="text-align: center;">The sun has decided to shine for the last couple of days and it was time to break the seedlings out of the Greenhouse and let them bask in the sun - for a while at least.   These are the Zucchini seedlings planted up from their seed raising mix and in a couple of months they will become the next batch of delicious <strong>ZUCCHINI PICKLES.</strong></p> <p> </p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/uploaded/Oct 2021 Zucchini Seedlings_1000.jpeg" alt="Zucchini Seedlings planted up from Seed Raising Mix" width="800" height="363" /></p> <p style="text-align: center;"> The new season seedlings - Tomatoes, Capsicum, Gherkin Cucumbers and Beetroot having a day in the sun.  Soon they will be ready to plant up from their seed raising mix so they can get cracking to be ready for planting in mid November.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/uploaded/Tomato, Capsicum, Beetroot and Gherkin Cucumber Seedlings_1000.jpeg" alt="New Season Seedlings - Oct 21" width="800" height="363" /></p> <p style="text-align: center;">The GARLIC is coming along and despite all the endless rain, seems to be holding up well.   Plenty of Garlic to use in the <strong>SWEET CHILLI SAUCES</strong>.  I just joined a Facebook page for Australian Garlic Growers to get as much information from other growers on tips and tricks and understanding what is going on with your garlic crop and different harvesting times depending on your location.   It has been really helpful in understanding the problems Garlic can have, in different growing conditions, so encourage anyone who is interested in growing their own garlic to have a look at the page it is great.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/uploaded/Oct 2021 Garlic coming along_1000.jpeg" alt="Garlic Growing _Oct 21" width="800" height="363" /> </p> <p style="text-align: center;">Meanwhile, their less cold tolerant counterparts the <strong>CHILLI SEEDLINGS</strong> still have pride of place in the loungeroom window, on their heat pad, growing ever so slowly.   Very pleased that the seeds saved from last year's harvest have germinated brilliantly.  </p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/uploaded/Chilli Seedlings.jpeg" alt="Chilli Seedlings in the Lounge Room Window" width="740" height="580" /></p> <p style="text-align: center;"> </p> <p style="text-align: center;">Just planted out some Rhubarb plants, which are sharing the Asparagus patch.  Have a new product in development but we will need a couple years to get the Rhubarb to full production.   The guard dog is making certain all is well and no interlopers go undetected.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"> </p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/uploaded/Oct 2021 Rhubard and Asparagus_1000.jpeg" alt="Rhubarb Plantings Oct 21" width="800" height="363" /></p> <p style="text-align: center;"> </p> <p style="text-align: center;"> </p> <p style="text-align: center;">Things are progressing well and all on track for next years harvest.  We just need a whole lot more sunny days, and warmer weather and whilst we always need rain, maybe just not quite as much and a little less hail and hurricane winds would be appreciated.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"> </p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>ENJOY YOUR NEW FREEDOMS N.S.W. </strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong> EVERYONE BE SAFE AND LOOK AFTER EACH OTHER</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"> </p>urn:store:1:blog:post:16http://hnh.net.au/spring-has-finally-sprung-Spring has finally Sprung !<p>We have all come out of hibernation, the long cold and very wet winter is behind us, hopefully.  We have had snow a couple of times this year, and of course, yet another Covid lockdown.   </p> <p><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="/images/uploaded/Snow picture (3).jpeg" alt="" width="243" height="248" /></p> <p style="text-align: center;">Some have found it all just a bit overwhelming all this confinement!</p> <p><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="/images/uploaded/Georgie Photo.jpeg" alt="" width="243" height="248" /></p> <p>However this last weekend we were one of the very lucky Shires to be allowed to come out of lockdown and happily it co-incided with some of the warmest weather we have had for many a month. </p> <p>The trees are now starting to bud up or get their new leaves and so all thoughts turn to preparing the gardens and the next harvest.</p> <p><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="/images/uploaded/Pears in blossom.jpeg" alt="" width="243" height="326" /></p> <p>The greenhouse is full of the seeds awaiting their little green heads to pop through the seed raising mix.  The Chilli seeds, raised from seeds saved from my harvest last year, have been sitting on their warming pad, in the sunniest spot in a window and like magic they have germinated in record time.</p> <p><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="/images/uploaded/Chilli Seed germinating.jpeg" alt="" width="243" height="184" /></p> <p style="text-align: left;">You always know it is spring time when we start to harvest the first of the Asparagus, and this year looks to be a record crop. </p> <p style="text-align: center;"> This is one morning's harvest!</p> <p><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="/images/uploaded/Asparagus Harvest.jpeg" alt="" width="243" height="340" /></p> <p>The asparagus patch is looking good and will continue to give a crop each day for some months.</p> <p><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="/images/uploaded/Asparagus Patch.jpeg" alt="" width="243" height="340" /></p> <p>The Garlic crop which should be ready Nov/Dec are coming along wonderfully and the peas, as always, will give us a bumper crop to freeze for use throughout the year.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/uploaded/Garlic and Peas Growing.jpeg" alt="" width="243" height="309" /></p> <p style="text-align: center;">The sun is shining the weather is warming and it is a brand new day. </p> <p style="text-align: center;">Everyone enjoy the beautiful spring weather wherever you are.  </p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/uploaded/New Dawn.jpeg" alt="" width="243" height="187" /></p>urn:store:1:blog:post:15http://hnh.net.au/crookwell-emporium-welcomes-hh-preservesCrookwell Emporium welcomes H&H Preserves<p>It is now the quiet of winter and the last of the garden beds have been cleared, planted with green manure and left to recover over the winter hiatus.</p> <p>Focus moves away from the garden and the preserving kitchen to the planning for next season.   As well, we are excited about our new location <a href="https://www.facebook.com/CrookwellEmporium/" target="_blank">Crookwell Emporium </a>and how warmly those wonderful folk have welcomed us into their beautiful store.</p> <p><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="/images/uploaded/Crookwell emporium display Jun 21 close up.jpeg" alt="Crookwell Emporium inside display" width="493" height="370" /></p> <p>We have just created a little window display, which we hope sets the taste buds dreaming of a glass of wine, some wonderful local cheese and a selection of H&amp;H preserves to serve with them.  If your lucky share it all in front of a lovely warm fire.</p> <p> <img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="/images/uploaded/Window display Crookwell Emporium Jun 21.jpeg" alt="Crookwell Emporium Window Display" width="480" height="640" /></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="/images/uploaded/Goodie basket window display Jun 21.jpeg" alt="" width="479" height="359" /></p> <p> </p> <p><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="/images/uploaded/In front of the fire_1000.jpeg" alt="" width="477" height="369" /></p> <p> Take some time to put your feet up in front of the fire and enjoy the wonderful winter in the tablelands!</p> <p> </p>urn:store:1:blog:post:14http://hnh.net.au/hh-preserves-now-available-at-the-crookwell-emporiumH&H Preserves now available at the Crookwell Emporium<p>H&amp;H Preserves is now a part of the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/CrookwellEmporium/" target="_blank">Crookwell Emporium</a>, 100 Gouburn Street, Crookwell NSW.  We are so pleased to be a part of this wonderful store, a friendly authentic environment which supports and showcases local artisans and producers.</p> <p>The <a href="https://www.facebook.com/CrookwellEmporium/" target="_blank">Crookwell Emporium</a> stocks the whole range of H&amp;H Preserves and holds tastings on most Saturdays featuring one of it local suppliers. </p> <p>So we hope to see you soon for a tasting of our H&amp;H products.</p> <p>Come in and see Sandy and Susan and pick up one of our delicious preserves next time you are in Crookwell.  </p> <p>The Emporium is a must see when you are next in Crookwell, as there are some beautiful products in store and we are sure you will find something you will love.</p> <p><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="/images/uploaded/Crookwell Emporium.jpeg" alt="Crookwell Emporium" width="640" height="480" /></p> <p> </p>urn:store:1:blog:post:13http://hnh.net.au/a-great-day-at-the-little-church-markets-in-goulburn-nswA Great Day at the Little Church Markets in Goulburn NSW<p><a href="https://www.goulburnaustralia.com.au/event/the-little-church-markets-2/" target="_blank">Little Church Markets Goulburn NSw</a></p> <p>A Great Success!!!</p> <p>It was H&amp;H first market in Goulburn and we were blessed with magnificent weather. Alongside the St Saviours markets a little way down the road, people came along all day to support both markets. It was wonderful to meet so many local folk who really appreciated the local produce and products on offer. Thank you to all those who came and tasted our preserves and for all those who took a little something home, we hope you enjoy them very much.</p> <p>The markets are likely to be held every second month in the Baptist Church hall from 9 am - 2 pm. I hope to see you all again in a couple of months.</p> <p>Thanks Again to my dear friend Dianne and my beautiful assistant/husband Stephen who made the day such a lot of fun.</p> <p>See you all again very soon.</p> <p><img src="/images/uploaded/Church Markets_1000.jpeg" alt="" width="600" /></p> <p> </p> <p>Unfortunately the husband snuck up on me with the camera, so didnt have my smile on, busy setting up.   (:</p>urn:store:1:blog:post:12http://hnh.net.au/little-church-markets-goulburn-nsw-1st-may-2021Little Church Markets - Goulburn NSW - 1st May 2021<p>H&amp;H has their next market day coming up at the <a href="https://www.goulburnaustralia.com.au/event/the-little-church-markets-2/" target="_blank">Little Church Markets in Goulburn NSW</a> on the 1st May, 2021 from 10.00am to 4.00 pm. </p> <p><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="/images/uploaded/Little Church Markets_1000.jpeg" alt="Little Church Markets Goulburn NSW" width="814" height="513" /></p> <p> </p> <p>This will be the first markets in Goulburn which H&amp;H has been part of and we hope that we will see you all there.   Hopefully it will be a magnificent autumn day and everyone will come out and support the local makers and merchants.</p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p>urn:store:1:blog:post:11http://hnh.net.au/new-season-garlic-planted-out-for-2022New Season Garlic Planted out for 2022<p>The preserving season is coming to an end for another year, with only the late ripening Chillies slowly coming through for the Sweet Chilli Sauce.   May not be a bumper harvest of Chillies this year, though the plants are laden with green fruit.  However, with the cool summer and the return of true autumn weather to the Central Highlands, after a late burst of summer over the Easter weekend, we think many may simply not turn to the brilliant red we want.  The Chillies are the only thing that likes a really hot summer and this year that just did not happen.</p> <p>The tree are starting their change to magnificent autumn colour and we have lit the first fires over the past week and so we know it is almost winter.</p> <p> </p> <p><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="/images/uploaded/Autumn Colour begins 2021_1000.jpeg" alt="Autumn Colour begins 2021" width="760" height="570" /></p> <p>The plantings now turn to the winter crops of brassicas and peas and of course, the garlic bulbs are planted for harvest around November/December 2021.   Homegrown garlic is wonderfully flavoursome with the true strong garlic flavour and the bulbs, in the varieties I grow, are much larger than those you normally buy in the supermarket.   But later in the year I will share photos of the harvest and you can see what one little bulb can produce.  The garlic is used in the making of our Pasta Sauce and Sweet Chilli Sauces.</p> <p>Normally I plant the garlic around the edge of all the raised beds, in the hope, that as a companion plant of the onion family, it will deter insects and pests.   I have to admit that this is more a hope than a proven fact, as the beasties still seem to have no difficulty finding something they like to eat.</p> <p>I have decided to plant a complete bed of garlic this year and if the harvest is good enough and more than I can use, or share, I might sell some at the local markets.   I purchased my garlic bulbs from <a href="https://www.diggers.com.au" target="_blank">Diggers Club</a> and have always had great success with their varieties.  Here they are after just 2 weeks in the ground.</p> <p><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="/images/uploaded/Garlic Beds (1)_1000.jpeg" alt="Garlic Beds after 2 weeks 15-4-21" width="543" height="724" /></p> <p> </p> <p><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="/images/uploaded/Garlic Beds (2)_1000.jpeg" alt="Garlic and Peas 15-4-21" width="543" height="724" /></p> <p>The bed has garlic in the centre with podded, sugar snap and snow peas on each side of the bed which will be supported once they grow tall enough, making the bed productive for the next few months during the winter.</p> <p><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="/images/uploaded/Garlic (4)_1000.jpeg" alt="Garlic alongside the capsicum and chillies 15-4-21" width="543" height="724" /></p> <p>Here the garlic is planted around the edge of the garden already planted with Capsicums and Chillies, to act as a companion plant to deter the insects and pests.</p> <p>So whilst the garden goes into its winter hiatus in many places it springs to life others.  </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p>  </p> <p> </p>urn:store:1:blog:post:10http://hnh.net.au/bigga-market-easter-saturday-a-wonderful-successBigga Market Easter Saturday - A wonderful success<p style="text-align: left;">Here we are again at the Bigga Markets on Easter Saturday 2021.   We really missed the Markets in 2020 due to the whole year being called off.   Locals and visitors to the district came out in great numbers to support the local stall holders.  It was a great day!  It means a great deal to us to have so many people come back each year to purchase the products they love and then to continue to support us through our local outlets at the Binda General Store, Bigga General Store and Arcadia in Crookwell.  </p> <p style="text-align: left;">We appreciate the wonderful support of everyone and we look forward to seeing you all again at the Bigga Markets in 2022.</p> <p style="text-align: left;">A special shout out to my two beautiful assistants on the day, my darling husband Stephen (picture evaded) and my wonderful BFF Dianne pictured below, who made the day such a lot of fun again.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"> </p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/uploaded/Bigga Markets April 2021_1000.jpeg" alt="Bigga Markets 2021" width="466" height="262" /></p> <p style="text-align: left;"> </p> <p style="text-align: left;">Next market day for H&amp;H Preserves will be the <a href="https://www.goulburnaustralia.com.au/event/the-little-church-markets-2/" target="_blank">Little Church Markets in Goulburn NSW</a> on the 1st May and will let you know more details as it gets closer.</p> <p style="text-align: left;">Thanks again to all who supported our wonderful local markets!</p>urn:store:1:blog:post:9http://hnh.net.au/our-chillies-are-rippeningOur Serrano Chillies Are Ripening<div style="max-width: 800px; word-wrap: break-word;"> <p>Chillies plantings for Sweet Chilli Sauce</p> <img src="/images/uploaded/Chillies Growing.jpeg" alt="" width="660" height="396" /> <p>Above, just one of our Serrano Chilli bed plantings and while its difficult to see them, there is an anbundance of chillies, a great relief after much trouble in getting the seeds to germinate this season.</p> <p>Below, a bumper season just waiting for them to slowly turn to red and take on their chilli heat. In the immature green form, they have similar heat to a Jalapeno</p> <table border="0" width="80%" cellspacing="2" cellpadding="10"> <tbody> <tr> <td><img src="/images/uploaded/Chillies rippening v2.jpeg" alt="" width="339" height="465" /></td> <td align="center"> <p> </p> <p style="text-align: center;">      Once they have had a week or so to gather all their flavour the harvest can begin and this years Sweet Chilli Sauce will be available</p> <br /><img src="/images/uploaded/Chillie Sauce.jpeg" alt="" width="143" height="305" align="center" /></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div>urn:store:1:blog:post:8http://hnh.net.au/gift-basketscorporate-baskets-hampers-for-all-occasionsGift Baskets/Corporate Baskets & Hampers for all occasions<p style="text-align: left;">Ever had that person who is just impossible to buy a gift for, who just has everything they need, or seems to.   Well what about a unique gift basket of H&amp;H Preserves?</p> <p>Last year the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Arcadia-Crookwell-1516707061914001/" target="_blank">Arcadia (Now Ensemble &amp; Co)</a> in Crookwell NSW took out a full page advertisement in the Goulburn Post to showcase their display holders and to advertise the one late night of Christmas shopping in December 2020.   Yes we only have one night a year when we stay open late so it is always something out of the ordinary and a lot of fun.</p> <p>As part of that H&amp;H put together Christmas baskets which were very popular with the locals and visitors to the district.</p> <p><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="/images/uploaded/Xmas Basket advert G Post Dec 20.jpeg" alt="Xmas Baskets Dec 2020" width="558" height="398" /></p> <p> </p> <p>My dearest friend who runs <a href="https://goulburnconveyancing.com.au/" target="_blank">Goulburn Conveyancing in Goulburn NSW</a> decided to give her clients an H&amp;H Gift Basket in 2020 instead of the old favourite of a bottle of something, most often with bubbles.  The response from her clients was wonderful with all who received them, seeking her out to thank her for something a little bit different.  Often real estates, lawyers and such, receive so many corporate Christmas gifts they just hand them off to their staff.  I think all who received these gift basket took them home for the holidays, so that is something!</p> <p>H&amp;H baskets can be personalised with handmade baked goods, such as White Chocolate and Macadamia cookies, Cranberry &amp; Pistachio Shortbread, or homemade Lavosh style crackers as well as a selection of preserves.</p> <p>Here is an example of a Mother's Day Hamper which we produced which included the cookies with the preserves.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"> <img src="/images/uploaded/Sample H&amp;H Gift Box.jpeg" alt="Sample Mother's day hamper Mar 21" width="350" height="430" /></p> <p>Gift Baskets can be very expensive, so a good way to estimate the cost of our gift baskets is to use a cost of about $8.50 - $10.00 per preserve, depending upon which ones are included, which covers a standard basket/hamper tray and decoration.  For example, if you had 4 preserves then the basket would be about $40 plus delivery or postage.  If a more expensive display is requested, such as a wooden box rather than basket then this would be an additional cost.</p> <p>If the delivery is within 100klm of my location then it would be delivered with a $10 flat fee, over 100klm would be a delivery or postage charge to be calculated.</p> <p> </p> <p><strong>Christmas in July 2021</strong></p> <p>2020 was a year where everything was different even Christmas.   Parts of Sydney were in COVID lockdown, there were restrictions on the number of guests who could attend a residence and generally it was not the Christmas we hoped to have.   There is a thought that Christmas in July may be a little bigger this year in more temperate parts of the country, such as where i live in the Central Tablelands.   We are known to have some snow not every year but who knows..... </p> <p><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="/images/uploaded/Picture10_1000.jpeg" alt="Snow in Central Tablelands" width="430" height="264" /></p> <p>Last year I conjured up some lovely Christmas cakes for a couple of locals who love my cakes.  These cakes can be made in an individual size and included in a gift basket for a special Christmas in July gift.</p> <p><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="/images/uploaded/Xmas Cakes 2020 3.jpeg" alt="Xmas Cakes 2020" width="467" height="223" />So keep us in mind for that little something different for a birthday, corporate or any occasion gift basket or hamper.</p> <p> </p> <p> </p>urn:store:1:blog:post:7http://hnh.net.au/hh-preserves-is-looking-for-new-retail-opportunitiesH&H Preserves is looking for new Retail Opportunities<p>We have been very lucky to have the support of local retail outlets around the district, but H&amp;H Preserves would love to hear from anyone interested in including our offering of homegrown and handmade preserves in their retail environment.</p> <p>We think it is high time that we shared our delicious preserves and not keep them just a secret of the beautiful Upper Lachlan Shire.</p> <p>If you are interested please contact Veronica at <a href="mailto:info@hnh.net.au">info@hnh.net.au</a></p> <p> </p>urn:store:1:blog:post:6http://hnh.net.au/bigga-markets-easter-saturday-3-april-2021Bigga Easter Markets Saturday 3 April 2021<p>The <a href="https://www.facebook.com/biggansw/" target="_blank">Bigga Easter Markets</a> are back for 2021!</p> <p>H&amp;H preserves have been part of the Bigga Easter Markets for some years now and as was the case with many things in 2020 the markets were cancelled due to COVID.   However with the easing of restrictions they are on again bigger and better than ever.  Of course, with COVID protocols in mind.</p> <p>Come and join us, it is always a really popular event with locals and visitors to the district for school holidays or the Easter Break.</p> <p><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="/images/uploaded/Di and I in our H&amp;H aprons.jpeg" alt="Di and Veronica at Bigga Markets " width="597" height="463" /></p> <p> </p> <p>Look forward to seeing you there!</p> <p> </p> <p> </p>urn:store:1:blog:post:5http://hnh.net.au/end-of-the-chutney-and-pasta-sauce-seasonEnd of the Chutney and Pasta Sauce season<p>I have made the decision, which is a tough one for me each year, when have I made enough and when should I stop preserving.   I have reached my goal for each of the tomato products, the 3 chutneys and the Pasta Sauce and despite still having great quality tomatoes off and on the vines I have drawn a line in the sand.  I am sure that every preserver has the same dilemma.   It ends up being a decison of head over heart, not my strong point, keep making my preserves past what I think I can sell and using up hard earned capital or say enough is enough.  </p> <p><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="/images/uploaded/Stock store Mar 2021.jpeg" alt="Stock Mar 21" width="596" height="447" /></p> <p>So the best of the surplus tomatoes and any new harvest will go to friends or neighbours and down to our local Binda Store to be given away to the locals or visitors who would like them.   During the apple season every trip to the local store ends with bringing home a big bag of free local apples from a backyard tree, which are just superb.  I have made many a jar of apple sauce from these wonderful apples.  So I will return the favour with my tomato surplus.</p> <p>Every year we struggle with the decision of when to clear out the tomatoes beds and start to plant the winter crops or green manure.  It just seems wrong to take out plants with so many green tomatoes and just throw them away but I only once found a home for my green tomatoes.  A local chap made his green tomato relish and was just so happy to take them off my hands.   Might see if I can find that fellow again this year because there will be a lot.</p> <p>Now the focus is on the new Beetroot and Chilli crops.  Despite the rain and surprisingly cool summer / autumn the beetroots are thriving and another good harvest will come through this week.   The long awaited ripening of the chillis is slowly happening but the cold weather is definitely not helping speed this along.</p> <p>However in anticipation of that wonderful event the covering of the beds has begun, because there is just nothing that a Currawong likes more than a lovely big meal of red hot chillis.  Well so it seemed last year, when times were tough for all the native birds.    We are not going to take the chance this year and the bird netting is in progress.  Temporarily suspended due to the inclement weather but later in the week there is hope of some sunny skies so we all look forward to that.</p> <p><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="/images/uploaded/Chilli Netting Mar 21.jpeg" alt="Start of Chilli Netting Mar 21" width="640" height="480" /></p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p>urn:store:1:blog:post:3http://hnh.net.au/markdale-station-and-farmstay-crooked-corner-nswMarkdale Station and Farmstay - Crooked Corner NSW<p>The historic <a href="http://www.markdale.com/" target="_blank">Markdale Station</a> offers bespoke farmstay and equestrian experiences.  This wonderful property has magnificent Edna Walling designed gardens surrounding the historic homestead building. The <a href="https://www.crookwellgardenfestival.com/" target="_blank">Crookwell Garden Festival</a> will be held on the 6th &amp; 7th November 2021, with Markdale being one of the featured properties. </p> <p>The Markdale owners believe in supporting the businesses and producers of the local district.   It is very exciting that H&amp;H Preserves have been chosen by Markdale to provide a selection of our preserves as welcome gifts for their guests.   </p> <p>We thank Louise and her family for this wonderful opportunity and look forward to working with Markdale, in some small way, in providing the full country experience that this property offers to their guests.</p> <p><a href="http://www.markdale.com" target="_blank"><img src="/images/uploaded/markdale.jpeg" alt="" width="847" height="560" /></a></p>urn:store:1:blog:post:4http://hnh.net.au/finding-your-heirloom-tomato-varietyFinding your Heirloom Tomato Variety<div style="max-width: 800px; word-wrap: break-word;"> <p>What is the difference between a Hybrid and an Heirloom tomato?</p> <p>Hybrid tomatoes are what we all have purchased in our supermarkets, they are bred for long term storage, to be less susceptible to diseases, to be perfect in appearance but are less flavoursome. If you save the seeds to replant you cannot be certain that your seed will grow true to type. The hybrid is a combination on many varieties bred to give all the attributes listed above.</p> <p>An heirloom tomato is an older-style tomato variety which can be susceptible to diseases, cannot be stored long term, may or may not be perfect in appearance but will have the most wonderfully intense tomato flavour. An heirloom tomato seed should always grow true to type.</p> <p>There are many seed suppliers who specialise in heirloom tomato seeds in Australia, <a href="https://www.diggers.com.au/seeds/" target="_blank">Diggers Club</a>, <a href="https://www.edenseeds.com.au/" target="_blank">Eden Seeds</a>, <a href="https://seedfreaks.com.au/" target="_blank">Seed Freaks</a>, <a href="https://www.boondieseeds.com.au/" target="_blank">Boondie Seeds</a> are just a few. There are many others around the world who are dedicated to saving heirloom seeds so that these varieties are not lost to future generations.</p> <p>After a lot of investigation and trial and error in growing, we discovered a book called <a href="https://www.pennywoodward.com.au/store/books-by-penny-woodward/tomato-know-sow-grow-feast/" target="_blank">"TOMATO" written by Penny Woodward, Janice Sutton and Karen Sutherland</a>, it has become our tomato bible.</p> <a href="https://www.pennywoodward.com.au/store/books-by-penny-woodward/tomato-know-sow-grow-feast/"><img title="" src="images/uploaded/tomato book cover.jpg" alt="" width="115" height="133" /></a> <p>One of the great things that is included in the book is a list of Heirloom varieties and all their attributes, colour, size, flavour, uses etc. After a couple of years planting different varieties, we have settled on our selection which we use for our preserves. <img title="" src="images/uploaded/heirlooms.jpg" alt="" width="700" height="350" /><br /> Each of the past few seasons have brought with it different challenges. Extremely wet summers, causing fungal infections, excessive heat causing wilt and poor germination, drought and bushfires or as we experienced in 2020/21 almost no summer with the whole season being spring like in its temperatures and above average rainfall.</p> <p>Then our friends the insects and birds cause their own problems, caterpillar infestations are a big problem for tomatoes. In tough seasons the native birds such as King Parrots, Crimson Rosellas and Currawongs, find tomatoes a great alternate food source.</p> <p>The "TOMATO" publication gives great assistance with the types of diseases which affect tomatoes, also eco-friendly alternatives to chemicals, such as chilli and garlic spray to combat caterpillars. Really when you get right down to it, tomatoes can be quite the Goldilocks, liking everything just at the right temperature, not to cold and not to hot, not too much water, or too little, but just the right amount.</p> <p>It is all worth it when you get a tomato harvest like we have had this year, which has been exceptional. We never get everything right, we make mistakes every year, but normally different ones! In the end we get a harvest like this that makes it all worthwhile.</p> </div>urn:store:1:blog:post:1http://hnh.net.au/welcome-to-the-hh-preserves-websiteWelcome to our H&H Preserves....Our Story<div style="max-width: 800px; word-wrap: break-word;"> <p>Hello, I'm Veronica and I live in the Central Tablelands of New South Wales.   I share my country haven with wonderful husband Steve and our two ferocious attack dogs, Rosie and Georgie. </p> <img title="" src="\images\uploaded/Entrance to Property.jpeg" alt="" width="480" height="280" /> <img src="\images\uploaded/Picture4.jpeg" alt="" width="280" height="220" /> <p>I was a city girl, Steve was raised on a farm, but once we moved to the country about 12 years ago, we both channelled our German and Irish farming ancestors and found the greatest joy in planting a seed, seeing it grow and harvesting our own produce.  We discovered the wonderful <a href="http://www.diggers.com.au" target="_blank">Diggers</a> Club site where we learnt so much about heirloom varieties of vegetables.  We try wherever we can to grow heirlooms so that we don't  lose those wonderful true tasting varieties of vegetables.</p> <p>Our range of preserves grew from the realisation that, though it is wonderful to grow and harvest kilos of fresh produce, the two of us, and the attack dogs, can only consume so much.</p> <p>So what can we do with those kilos and kilos of zucchinis and tomatoes that we have grown and all ripen at the same time.  <strong>Preserve them</strong>,<strong> </strong>of course, in as many and varied ways as we can. Our range of preserves are made from our produce grown without harmful pesticides and chemicals, always with the environment, our friends the bees and a wish to eat healthy fresh produce, in our mind.  We also take the bounty of our friends, neighbours, local farmers and suppliers. </p> <p><img src="\images\uploaded/Tomato harvest 2021_1000.jpeg" alt="" width="750" height="310" /></p> <p>We have over the years dealt with one in a hundred year droughts, which seem to happen more often then the name suggests! Incredibly hot summers for our temperate climate, fires and endless choking smoke and at the other end of the spectrum unexpected snow falls.</p> <p><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="\images\uploaded/Picture10_1000.jpeg" alt="" width="500" height="325" /></p> <p>With plenty of hard work and a great deal of satisfaction we have built an oasis for our little family and everyday is full of new discoveries and there is simply never nothing to do.   Our gardens are a souce of endless joy and each season brings its own beauty.  Every discovery of a new native bird which has taken up residence is always a reason for celebration.</p> <p><img src="\images\uploaded/Picture15_1000.jpeg" alt="" width="750" height="400" /></p> <p><img src="/images/uploaded/side of house_1000.jpeg" alt="" width="750" height="400" /></p> <p><br /><img src="\images\uploaded/Picture9_1000.jpeg" alt="" width="750" height="400" /></p> <p>With the growing popularity of our preserves we have extended our vegetable garden to make sure that we are able to offer our range of preserves well after the harvest is done. </p> <p><img src="\images\uploaded/Extended garden_1000.jpeg" alt="" width="750" height="290" /></p> <p>We hope that you get an opportunity to try our delicious preserves and enjoy them just as much as we enjoy growing and making them.   I really hope that you find our journey enjoyable and we will be able to learn and enjoy everything gardening and preserving together.</p> <img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="\images\uploaded/Picture17_1000.jpeg" alt="" width="500" height="346" align="centre" /></div>