Eleven GoodGym legends headed over to Hervey Road Sports Field Community Garden last night to help break new ground by planting lavender and with the ground baked dry after the recent weather, it wasn't quite as simple as digging a few holes.

We spent the evening getting diggy with it, carefully planting the lavender before giving every new addition a much-needed drink. Because when in drought, watering is every bit as important as planting, and we made sure the new plants had the best possible start in their new home.

A huge congratulations to Aman on joining the TaskForce, its brilliant to have you taking on this new role. And another big congratulations to Mark for completing his 10th Good Deed!

Thanks to everyone who came along for a lovely evening of gardening, teamwork and plenty of puns courtsey of Aman and Ivar.

Until next time you lavly bunch!

Rachel

On a very warm and barmy evening, nine GoodGymers made their way (gently) to Hervey Road Sports Ground. Some ran (slowly in the heat), while others walked. We all panted breathlessly and wondered if we would ever feel a gentle breeze again…

When we arrived at the sports ground community garden, we were greeted by James, the son of Anne, who is behind the Hervey Road Sports Ground gardening project. Poor Anne has broken her wrist, so James (who had even cut short his holiday!) stepped in to brief us in her place. Thank you, James, and get well soon, Anne!

Over the last few years, GoodGym has regularly helped with the annual lavender planting around the border of the car park. This time, GoodGym was replacing some of the lavender plants that hadn't survived with 27 fresh new ones.

After some clear instructions from James, we all set about watering, digging holes, adding soil and planting the lavender. Before long, the wonderful fragrance of lavender filled the car park. There was just enough time for a final group photo before we sauntered home in the now cooler evening light, leaving behind a little more L❤️vendar than we'd arrived with.

Title by @Aman

Gardening at Hervey Road when the temperature is close to body temperature, what can possibly go wrong? For starters, the gate was locked. The first few minutes were spent trying to find someone to contact to get the code or walk along the field to find another way in. We had no luck with either, so we decided to go to Annie’s place to do some gardening instead. Then, out of nowhere, a woman from across the street appeared, who happened to know the code. We were finally in, and the code to the gate is now a secret that a select few Goodgymers are in on.

Today’s main task was to water the trees and plants that were struggling in the extreme heat. Four watering cans made their way across the car park countless times, providing much needed water to the scorched ground. But all this hard work and scorching sun made us see stars in the end. We decided to wrap up a few minutes early, to seek out some shade and a cold drink. If trees can feel gratitude, then the ones at Hervey Road are feeling it right now!

On this fine morn, the brave gardeners of Goodgym — Sir Ivar, Dame Carolin, and Squire Sam — gathered at the enchanted garden of Hervey Road to perform acts of noble horticulture. With secateurs as their trusty swords and a bucket for their spoils, they ventured forth to tame the wild lavender that had grown too bold.

Swift hands and Annie’s keen eyes guided the pruning, filling the air with the sweet, magical fragrance of lavender — enough to enchant any wandering soul. The precious sprigs were carefully gathered, destined to bring joy indoors.

As the sun climbed higher, the trio turned to a few rogue weeds daring to challenge their domain. With courage and a touch of mischievous glee, they vanquished the intruders, leaving the garden orderly and serene.

Thus ended the quest of the day: lavender subdued, baskets full, and spirits lifted, ready to return another day to their verdant realm.

Eight of us hit the streets last night with purpose, energy, and plenty of good vibes. Our destination? The ever-welcoming Hervey Road Playing Fields. But before we got there, we had a very special delivery to make…

On our way over, we helped spread the word about the upcoming Prince Philip Maritime Collections Centre (PPMCC) Community Day, dropping leaflets through letterboxes. It's going to be a fantastic event, and you can sign up to help man the GoodGym stall and soak up the community spirit here.

With the leaflets delivered and our legs nicely warmed up, we headed on to Hervey Road. When we arrived we found Jenny, Ivar, and Annie already hard at work, weeding and pruning back the lavender with impressive focus. The rest of us joined in, tackling a good amount of weeding and bramble-pulling to help get the space looking its best. The combination of teamwork, elbow grease, and a few laughs made for a hugely satisfying session.

Thanks to everyone who came along, until next time!

💥 Coming up this weekend in Greenwich:

🌿 Saturday – Gardening at Mycenae Gardens Join us for a peaceful and productive morning of planting and pruning in this much-loved community space. A perfect way to start the weekend!

🚮 Sunday – Group Run & Litter Pick at Woolwich Common We’re heading out for a run followed by a community litter pick at Woolwich Common. A great way to combine fitness with a bit of environmental impact.

Next Wednesday we're back at the Memorial Hospital for a special session with a bonfire, tea and creative session - don't miss out!

A sunny August morning took 2 goodgym-ers to Hervey Road Sports Field Gardens, a haven for wild flowers just off Shooters Hill Road.

We met Annie and were briefed with 2 straightforward tasks: weeding & watering. Some new plants had been put in last weekend so after a few dry days they were a little parched! 3 gentle waterings over the session hopefully revived them a little. The rest of our time was spent clearing weeds & grass from the beds to allow space both for existing wildflowers to grow, and new seeds to sprout, helpfully guided by expert Annie, so now we know our Feverfew from our Alison...! 

The time flew by and we were ready for some final watering & on to the rest of the weekend. See you all soon! ☀️