tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-235206112024-03-07T08:53:27.503-05:00The Asheville GardenerA gardener's diary on growing vegetables, fruits and flowers in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains of Asheville, North Carolina.Goodboy Norman Featherstonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12816477519280692229noreply@blogger.comBlogger252125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23520611.post-26232761715203380532012-06-11T12:01:00.002-04:002012-06-11T12:01:50.453-04:00Finally Found a Cure for the Flea Beetle!OK, so maybe it's not a cure so much as it's a distraction, but at least I've found a way to keep flea beetles from tearing through my eggplant - plant kale near the eggplant. Flea beetles love kale, and kale grows fast, so it's not damaged by the little holes those nasty flea beetles leave when they chomp into the leaves. I honestly don't even notice the holes, but I've been organic gardening for so many years that holes are the norm.Goodboy Norman Featherstonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12816477519280692229noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23520611.post-62061691640139223482012-03-12T11:15:00.003-04:002012-03-12T11:18:01.858-04:00The Spring Veg is In!We took advantage of 60 degree weather this weekend by sowing the spring vegetables; lettuce, spinach, kale, beets, radishes and sugar snap peas were carefully covered by a layer of compost to awaken them from their winter hibernation. It was so nice to get my hands into the dirt again!Goodboy Norman Featherstonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12816477519280692229noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23520611.post-72530860049198514152012-02-27T08:39:00.002-05:002012-02-27T08:41:46.617-05:00Sowing the VegI sowed some of the summer veg this weekend; 4 varieties each of tomatoes, eggplant and peppers, a whole tray of white and yellow zinnias, and a little bit of basil. I have a whole other tray that needs to be sown, but with only one seedling mat, they'll have to wait there turn. As usual, I sowed far too many tomatoes again this year, but I'm sure I can find people to share them.Goodboy Norman Featherstonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12816477519280692229noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23520611.post-78519891604328929582012-02-27T08:37:00.004-05:002012-02-27T08:39:19.122-05:00Pruning the RosesIan and I spent 2 hours pruning back the roses this weekend. While it may be a little early to give them their annual haircut, we have had an extremely mild winter this year, and they should be just fine. We took them down by 1/3, trimmed off all the dead wood and culled out the weak branches. We have numerous scratches to show for all our hard work!Goodboy Norman Featherstonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12816477519280692229noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23520611.post-10177082629319634252010-07-28T14:22:00.003-04:002010-07-28T14:39:57.564-04:00Cupid TomatoesI have grown <a href="http://www.parkseed.com/gardening/store/TextSearch?storeId=10101&SearchUnion=Y&CustSearchText=marcellino&x=0&y=0">Marcellino</a> cherry tomatoes for the past three years for their crisp, tangy flavor, but each year they seemed to become more prone to splitting. This year I decided to give another variety a shot and switched to <a href="http://www.parkseed.com/gardening/store/TextSearch?storeId=10101&SearchUnion=Y&CustSearchText=cupid&x=0&y=0"> Cupid</a>, which is actually a grape tomato, but still a nice little bite-sized treat.<br /><br />The packet of Cupid seeds cost $3.95, the same as Marcellino. When I went to sow them, I was shocked that there were only 10 seeds in the packet since Marcellino ships with 30 seeds! Each of the little Cupid seeds cost .39! That's kind of pricey for a seed in my experience, but Park's proclamation of them being, "Simply the best grape!" gave me hope that they would be worth the extra cost.<br /><br />I sowed the seeds indoors in February, set out transplants in mid-May, and we started harvesting tomatoes in late June, a little earlier than we ever harvested Marcellino.<br /><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4133/4837712173_d08a2b8bb7_m.jpg" /><br /><br />We have had a very rainy Summer, which generally leads to cracked tomatoes that rot on the vine. Despite all the rain, I have not found one cracked, split or otherwise damaged tomato on any of the six plants.<br /><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4088/4837711821_c21d78108f_m.jpg" /><br /><br />The one complaint I have about the Cupid is that they seem to be particularly susceptible to blight. Most of the plants have been stripped 3/4 the way up their stem of all leaves due to infection. I spray them with fungicide every Saturday, but still, the blight keeps coming.<br /><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4128/4837714257_7c06b009d0_m.jpg" /><br /><br />If you are fed up with splitting cherry tomatoes, give Cupid a try next season!Goodboy Norman Featherstonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12816477519280692229noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23520611.post-27172025012727979032010-07-16T17:12:00.006-04:002010-07-16T17:21:24.805-04:00Bee Balm<span style="font-size:100%;">The Bee Balm put on a great show so far this Summer and is ready for a good shearing. I hope it sends up a second flush of blooms, but this is the first year it has bloomed, so I don't know what to expect.<br /><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4141/4793763046_98a707390b_m.jpg" /><br /><br />The bees are still squeezing the last bit of pollen from the floppy heads, so I think I'll leave my dead-heading chore until next weekend.<br /><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4142/4793130291_fe520ddc9e_m.jpg" /><br /><br />Bee Balm is a fast grower that loves full sun, doesn't require staking and won't wilt in dry weather. This variety was supposed to reach only 18", but mine appears to have taken steroids when I wasn't looking and is over 4' in height. When Bee Balm gets a little out of control and tries to crowd out other plants, just pull up the unwanted plants. They pull right out of the ground very easily.<br /></span>Goodboy Norman Featherstonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12816477519280692229noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23520611.post-20116148305725033432010-07-14T15:05:00.002-04:002010-07-14T15:18:54.962-04:00Growing OkraWe're growing okra this year for the first time. I sowed a row of "Clemson Spineless" seeds directly in the garden in mid-May. The seeds are from Park's Seeds, but are no longer available on their website. The germination rate was very good. I think I only had to resow 2 seeds that either didn't come up or were plucked from the ground by a bird. The seed pack advises to sow 1 1/2 to 2 feet apart, but I sowed mine about 4 inches apart. I'm a rebel like that. When you don't have much space, you have to push the limits!<br /><br />Okra leaves resemble maple leaves.<br /><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4139/4793124477_f46d7c42a4_m.jpg" /><br /><br />The dark-eyed creamy white flowers resemble those of Rose of Sharon or even Hibiscus.<br /><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4121/4793123719_9e43264972_m.jpg" /><br /><br />The flowers fade quickly and develop into an edible Okra pod.<br /><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4101/4793123421_1df9e3a285_m.jpg" /><br /><br />Okra are generally ready for harvest at around 2-4 inches in length. When harvested often, the plants will continue to produce throughout the entire summer.<br /><br />I'm excited to cook up the first batch this weekend! I love it fried (naughty, I know) and lightly sauteed in olive oil (or butter), and Ian likes to use it in gumbo.Goodboy Norman Featherstonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12816477519280692229noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23520611.post-70105652217948630862010-07-09T11:17:00.002-04:002010-07-09T11:27:37.282-04:00Breaking the HeatIt has been so hot here for the past week - the news claims it reached 100 degrees yesterday, and I'm tempted to believe them. I don't generally believe things reported on the news, but it was really, really hot, so they may be onto some real facts with this one.<br /><br />I have been watering the garden from the rain barrel, lugging the watering can up the hill to give the plants some relief from the scalding sun. Sure, it's not that far of a walk and the hill isn't that steep, but did I mention how hot it is? Very hot. Yesterday the rain barrel went dry, and I had to set the hose loose on the garden. I have to admit it was nice to not lug can after can of water, but I'm trying to be a good steward of our natural resources so I use the hose sparingly.<br /><br />Last night we caught a break - it finally rained! It was such a wonderful, full blown downpour. The rain barrel is full again, and the plants are invigorated. I'm quite thankful seeing as we're down to our last 3 dozen squash, and if we hadn't got that rain, the plants might stop producing. LOL! It's supposed to rain again tonight and possibly tomorrow. Bring it on. I won't complain of a "ruined" weekend at all!Goodboy Norman Featherstonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12816477519280692229noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23520611.post-528493953034002752010-06-25T10:31:00.003-04:002010-06-25T10:50:36.012-04:00First Squash of the SeasonI had a lot of miscellaneous squash seed left-over from past gardening years that I decided to use up this year before adding to the collection. I ended up with 3 Crookneck Improved from Park's Seeds, and 2 Golden Dawn and 1 Raven Zucchini from Renee's Garden. I really like the Golden Dawn (<span style="font-style: italic;">pictured on the front row</span>). Not only is the buttercup flavored fruit rich and nutty, but the upward curving leaves are easier to inspect for squash beetles than other varieties. This variety also seems to be able to pollinate itself from all female flowers. There are 5 fruit on each plant, and no male flowers. Most squash require male and female flowers to produce fruit.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/50325108@N00/4732567255/" title="bottom left quadrant early summer by tammyleino, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1172/4732567255_6102614dca_m.jpg" alt="bottom left quadrant early summer" height="180" width="240" /></a><br /><br />We had a wonderful rain last night that helped ripen up the first of the Golden Dawn fruits. Summer squash is ready for harvest at 5 or 6 inches in length. Do not let the fruit grow much longer than this, or it will become tough and bland. Harvesting the fruit young and often will keep the plant producing for a longer period. Remember that squash plants are annuals, and their goal is to produce seed. Once they feel enough seed has been produced, they will die. It's your job to keep them from fulfilling their goal!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/50325108@N00/4733215952/" title="golden dawn squash ready to pick by tammyleino, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1230/4733215952_bbe20b7255_m.jpg" alt="golden dawn squash ready to pick" height="180" width="240" /></a><br /><br />When harvesting, never twist or snap the fruit from the vine. Use a knife, sharp scissors or pruning sheers to make a clean cut leaving about 2" of stem attached to the fruit. This will help the squash stay fresh longer after removed from the vine.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/50325108@N00/4732572607/" title="cutting squash from the vine by tammyleino, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1343/4732572607_585d111b36_m.jpg" alt="cutting squash from the vine" height="180" width="240" /></a><br /><br />Squash will become exhausted in the heat of the Summer and start to die back. To keep the garden full of squash all season long, sow a second crop in large peat containers around the time the first crop starts producing fruit. By the time the first plants die back, the second crop will be ready to take their place in the garden.Goodboy Norman Featherstonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12816477519280692229noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23520611.post-41334822094484696002010-06-18T10:29:00.004-04:002010-06-18T11:04:45.848-04:00Beets - From the Garden to the TableI never liked beets as a kid. Maybe it's because my Mom tried to pass off mushy canned beets as being edible, or maybe it's because I was overly picky. Whatever the reason, I hadn't eaten a beet in many years until I found them in my salad last Fall at <a href="http://ashevillebouchon.com/">Bouchon</a>. At first I thought I would pick them out, but I trust Michel's preparation of cuisine, so I hesitantly slipped one in my mouth, prepared to spit it into my napkin when no one was looking. To my surprise, it was the best thing I ate that night - so sweet, so juicy - so full of earthy goodness. I was in love and vowed at that moment to grow beets the following Spring.<br /><br />I sowed a 9' row of <a href="http://www.parkseed.com/gardening/PD/5047/">Red Cloud Hybrid Beets</a> in late March. Beets are a cool weather crop that can handle a bit of frost and should be sown in early Spring as soon as the soil can be worked. There is no need to fuss with sowing beets indoors and attempting to transplant them - just sow them right in the garden. Follow the directions on the seed packet - sow them shallow and give them enough space to grow. Since beets are a root crop, they need an airy soil that will enable unrestrained growth. I replaced about 50% of my heavy clay soil with compost to ensure the beets had enough breathing room. This variety matures in about 60 days.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/50325108@N00/4711295993/" title="growing beets by tammyleino, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4050/4711295993_9c6e59837f_m.jpg" alt="growing beets" height="240" width="180" /></a><br /><br />Beets are ready to harvest when they have reached about 2" across. Be sure to pick them before they get too big; otherwise, they will lose their flavor and become really tough. The fat round root and fresh leafy greens are both edible, making for a wonderful salad when paired.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/50325108@N00/4711936882/" title="picking beets by tammyleino, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4065/4711936882_9b37a5f0a3_m.jpg" alt="picking beets" height="180" width="240" /></a><br /><br />Beets are pretty tough when they're raw, so it's best to give them a light sauteing to soften them up and bring out their sweet flavor.<br /><br />To prepare the beet for cooking, wash thoroughly, and then cut the leafy greens free of the root and snip off the long tap root from the bottom.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/50325108@N00/4711297229/" title="preparing beets by tammyleino, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4051/4711297229_15512b6265_m.jpg" alt="preparing beets" height="180" width="240" /></a><br /><br />Using a potato peeler, peel off the tough outer skin to reveal the bright red juicy goodness beneath. It's best to wear gloves or slip a baggy over your hand while doing this since the red juice can stain your hands and clothes.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/50325108@N00/4711297417/" title="peeling beets by tammyleino, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4015/4711297417_b2a400b05f_m.jpg" alt="peeling beets" height="180" width="240" /></a><br /><br />Slice the beets up however you want to eat them. Some people like to cube them, others like them in little sticks. I prefer half discs. So pretty, just like little red rainbows!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/50325108@N00/4711938198/" title="slicing beets by tammyleino, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4056/4711938198_a5b3757b43_m.jpg" alt="slicing beets" height="240" width="180" /></a><br /><br />Saute for a couple minutes in a bit of olive oil over medium heat, then add a splash of white wine. Reduce the heat and cover for 10 minutes until very tender.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/50325108@N00/4711938860/" title="saute beets by tammyleino, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4052/4711938860_7f60ed650e_m.jpg" alt="saute beets" height="180" width="240" /></a><br /><br />Beets can be eaten warm or cold. I prefer them cold, so I stick them in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes when they have finished cooking.<br /><br />The greens can be eaten cold in a salad or lightly sauted and served warm. To saute, add a bit of olive oil to a warm pan and cook over medium heat until the leaves shrivel to your liking.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/50325108@N00/4711939410/" title="saute beet greens by tammyleino, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1265/4711939410_c905d11aa3_m.jpg" alt="saute beet greens" height="180" width="240" /></a><br /><br />We served our beet greens under chicken with chilled beets on the side.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/50325108@N00/4711299309/" title="beets with chicken by tammyleino, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4028/4711299309_fce7858faf_m.jpg" alt="beets with chicken" height="180" width="240" /></a><br /><br />I will be sowing a second crop of beets in late Summer for Fall harvest. Beets can be stored for up to two weeks in the refrigerator. I have never tried to freeze them, but I might saute some up and give it a try.Goodboy Norman Featherstonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12816477519280692229noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23520611.post-794004950086489662010-06-11T08:32:00.001-04:002010-06-11T09:02:13.869-04:00Reporting for Duty!The first time I heard the word "<span style="font-style: italic;">volunteer</span>" in terms of gardening was from Ian's granny describing cosmos that were growing in a place she had not specifically planted them. They had "volunteered" themselves to grow! I thought it was a really cool word and started using it myself. Not everyone uses this word, so I'm passing it on to you (if you weren't already familiar).<br /><br />Each year I get hundreds of volunteer tomatoes that grow from the seeds of the previous year's fallen tomatoes. I usually just hoe them out of the soil, but this year I'm going to let one grow.<br /><br />This costuloto volunteered himself to grow in the mulch at the bottom right of the garden bed! He already has a cute little fruit forming, and is stronger than the plants I set out in late May. How could I possibly hoe him out when he has such a strong will to serve me some tomatoes!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/50325108@N00/4678849452/" title="volunteer tomato by tammyleino, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4041/4678849452_cf743c490d_m.jpg" alt="volunteer tomato" height="240" width="180" /></a>Goodboy Norman Featherstonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12816477519280692229noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23520611.post-12251193917859283692010-06-10T08:26:00.000-04:002010-06-10T08:26:00.596-04:00HydrangeasYear four has started out great for the hydrangeas! Their sturdy branches are already bursting with multi-colored blooms, and the bees are loving it!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/50325108@N00/4678850072/" title="perennial garden late spring by tammyleino, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4066/4678850072_be97f621fa_m.jpg" width="240" height="180" alt="perennial garden late spring" /></a><br /><br />Endless Summer opens with a green flower head, which turns pink, purple and blue.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/50325108@N00/4678220419/" title="endless summer hydrangea late spring by tammyleino, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4054/4678220419_edd7cde78d_m.jpg" width="240" height="180" alt="endless summer hydrangea late spring" /></a><br /><br />Blushing Bride opens with a similar green flower head which turns white and blushes to pink, purple and blue as it ages.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/50325108@N00/4678851002/" title="blushing bride hydrangea late spring by tammyleino, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4062/4678851002_e420a3c434_m.jpg" width="240" height="180" alt="blushing bride hydrangea late spring" /></a><br /><br />These shrubs receive just 2 hours of direct sunlight, one hour in the morning and one in late afternoon. From the look of things, they seem to enjoy their homes!Goodboy Norman Featherstonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12816477519280692229noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23520611.post-59193706955421782372010-06-09T08:18:00.001-04:002010-06-09T08:18:00.327-04:00Tropical PlantersI decided to move the jumbo fern to the far side of the porch this year so guests are not accosted as they try to enter the door. I figure the knock-roses and primrose impede their path enough that if they have to fight past the fern too, they might just give up and turn around. While this is a good plan for people selling meat out of the back of their truck, I would like friends and family to make it into the house, at least when they're invited - LOL!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/50325108@N00/4678210847/" title="porch view late spring by tammyleino, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4017/4678210847_7cca88f6b7_m.jpg" width="180" height="240" alt="porch view late spring" /></a><br /><br />I was really fond of the firecracker fuchsia I found at the Herb Festival last year, and while I intended to dig it up before Winter, my intentions fell short. Thankfully the same vendor offered the variety again this year. Paired with New Guinea impatiens, bacopa and a succulent houseplant, this potted creation has a tropical feel that makes me crave a mojito!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/50325108@N00/4678841810/" title="tropical planters late spring by tammyleino, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1270/4678841810_0509017fa5_m.jpg" width="240" height="180" alt="tropical planters late spring" /></a><br /><br />I'd like to find a low profile bench for the porch, where I can enjoy my mojito alongside my little bit of the tropics.Goodboy Norman Featherstonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12816477519280692229noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23520611.post-63834552154119719312010-06-08T08:07:00.000-04:002010-06-08T08:07:00.240-04:00Perennial PowerI'm very happy with the "English cottage" garden look I've got going on in the front of the house. While I still haven't ripped out the evening primrose, things are coming along quite nicely.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/50325108@N00/4678214045/" title="perennials late spring by tammyleino, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4037/4678214045_abc0f56046_m.jpg" width="180" height="240" alt="perennials late spring" /></a><br /><br />The right side is my pride and joy at the moment. Knock out roses create a lovely background for bee balm, goldenrod and phlox, which sets the scene for yarrow, veronica, coreopsis, butterfly weed and asiatic lilies. I would like the bee balm and goldenrod to take a chill pill and quit growing before they completely block the roses, but you can't control an English cottage garden! I'm eager to see some blooms from the taller plants too, but I can wait ...<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/50325108@N00/4678842666/" title="perennials late spring by tammyleino, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4044/4678842666_659135bb10_m.jpg" width="240" height="180" alt="perennials late spring" /></a><br /><br />The "out of control" ratty nature of the primrose adds to the look in this bed, right? Phlox towers proudly in the background as shasta daisies and coreopsis open the show.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/50325108@N00/4678843766/" title="perennials late spring by tammyleino, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4064/4678843766_714863f181_m.jpg" width="240" height="180" alt="perennials late spring" /></a><br /><br />I am determined to rid the bed of that primrose soon, but I have yet to decide what will replace it. I'm leaning toward yarrow and foxglove, but I am easily swayed by the abundant choices at the plant stores right now!Goodboy Norman Featherstonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12816477519280692229noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23520611.post-51240082757408518722010-06-07T09:59:00.003-04:002010-06-07T12:17:57.634-04:00What's Growin' in the Garden?It has taken me a little longer than usual to get the garden in this year, but it is finally complete!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/50325108@N00/4678214913/" title="garden late spring by tammyleino, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4019/4678214913_74aa0ab489_m.jpg" alt="garden late spring" height="180" width="240" /></a><br /><br />Sugar snap peas, lettuce and corn rule the top left quadrant. I planted a new type of sugar snap peas this year, hoping they would produce bigger yields, but they have grown slower than ever! The plants are only 2' tall after 3 months in the garden. They do have peas on them, but the harvest is going to be pretty sparse.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/50325108@N00/4678217587/" title="garden late spring by tammyleino, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4030/4678217587_80b4a66cd5_m.jpg" alt="garden late spring" height="180" width="240" /></a><br /><br />Costuloto tomatoes, cupid tomatoes, yellow wax beans, okra and edamame take dominion in the top right. This is my first year growing okra, and I'm pretty stoked! Ian loves to make gumbo, and I love to fry it up!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/50325108@N00/4678848752/" title="garden late spring by tammyleino, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1307/4678848752_a69cdd3286_m.jpg" alt="garden late spring" height="180" width="240" /></a><br /><br />Beets, squash, eggplant and potatoes rock the bottom left. The potatoes are trying to recover from the colorado potato beetles, flea beetles and what seems to be a touch of some disease. I lost one plant so far, but I'm trying to save the rest.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/50325108@N00/4678215791/" title="garden late spring by tammyleino, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4069/4678215791_137753b48e_m.jpg" alt="garden late spring" height="180" width="240" /></a><br /><br />Jubilee tomatoes, costuloto tomatoes, cupid tomatoes, eggplant, cucumbers, turtle beans and lima beans hold down the bottom right. This is my first year growing turtle beans and lima beans. We're going to dry the turtle beans since we love dark black beans in the winter.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/50325108@N00/4678847088/" title="garden late spring by tammyleino, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4007/4678847088_160954d709_m.jpg" alt="garden late spring" height="180" width="240" /></a><br /><br />This is the first year I split the tomatoes into two quadrants. I did this so I could reach them easier for watering and anti-fungal spraying. Hopefully this will help me stave off blight a little easier than the previous two years. I started an anti-fungal spray two weeks ago on the tomatoes, and noticed yesterday a couple black spots on some leaves. Fingers crossed that it is just a touch of sun scald!Goodboy Norman Featherstonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12816477519280692229noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23520611.post-59181943382674976432010-05-26T08:57:00.001-04:002010-05-26T08:57:00.785-04:00Colorado Potato BeetlesBack in March I planted Yukon Gold potatoes at the bottom of the lower left bed and Red Cloud Hybrid beets at the top. This weekend I finished off the bed by sowing squash in 2' mounds, tucking some extra eggplant between the mounds. Marigolds fill in the empty spaces to help protect against insects.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/50325108@N00/4639597776/" title="potatoes, beets, squash and eggplant by tammyleino, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3344/4639597776_62be766785_m.jpg" alt="potatoes, beets, squash and eggplant" height="180" width="240" /></a><br /><br />As it turns out, marigolds do not help protect against this nasty insect, the Colorado Potato Beetle, identified at its larval stage by its reddish brown ribbed body, black head, and pair of dark spots down either side of the body.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/50325108@N00/4639004541/" title="colorado potato beetle larva by tammyleino, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4042/4639004541_6a52ffc182_m.jpg" alt="colorado potato beetle larva" height="193" width="240" /></a><br /><br />According to every article I've read, the Colorado Potato Beetle is a nasty little bugger that quickly builds up resistance to pesticides and will defoliate potatoes, tomatoes and peppers in a short amount of time. Thankfully, my potato beetles are still in the stage 1 larval period, and have not caused much damage.<br /><br />The small holes in the leaves are from flea beetles, which don't eat a whole lot compared to potato beetles. The potato beetles, on the other hand, join forces with their newly hatched siblings to tear down any potato plant in range!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/50325108@N00/4638988369/" title="colorado potato beetle larva by tammyleino, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4071/4638988369_c90107b246_m.jpg" alt="colorado potato beetle larva" height="180" width="240" /></a><br /><br />They do the most damage in their stage 4 larval form, which I am trying to keep them from reaching. Since I have just a single 10' row of potatoes, manually squashing them to control the population shouldn't be a problem. I'll have to keep an eye on the tomatoes too, because I certainly don't want them setting their sites on other plants!Goodboy Norman Featherstonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12816477519280692229noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23520611.post-3858395860174401532010-05-25T12:06:00.002-04:002010-05-25T12:18:30.888-04:00Perfectly UnplannedLast year I planted two foxgloves in the front perennial bed. When the flowers faded, I took <a href="http://www.mygardenersguide.com/">Linda Cobb's</a> advice and laid the spent stalks across the back of another bed, hoping they would sprout new babies. I totally forgot about this until an unexpected surprise popped up ...<br /><br />Foxgloves peeking their heads up over the herb box!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/50325108@N00/4635633116/" title="herbs and perennials by tammyleino, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3342/4635633116_f5f972afc1_m.jpg" width="240" height="180" alt="herbs and perennials" /></a><br /><br />They spaced themselves out beautifully across the back of this bed to produce a lovely backdrop for the herb garden.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/50325108@N00/4635025917/" title="perennials in the morning by tammyleino, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4029/4635025917_8e7ab88f1e_m.jpg" width="240" height="180" alt="perennials in the morning" /></a><br /><br />While the parent plants were light yellow, these children range from light yellow to bright pink! I just love nature - she's so unpredictably creative! I hope her next surprise is as good as this one.Goodboy Norman Featherstonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12816477519280692229noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23520611.post-7462357120924196242010-05-21T09:36:00.003-04:002010-05-21T09:44:32.720-04:00To Weed or Not To WeedThere is much debate inside my head right now about whether the evening primrose I foolishly planted two years ago is a weed. It is definitely invasive, but it's also quite lovely and pleasantly scented. It is choking the other plants out, and each time I pull it up, it just comes right back. I guess that does qualify it as a weed. Primrose spreads via roots, which makes it more difficult to contain than plants that spread via seed. It has even burrowed under the sidewalk to the soil on the other side!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/50325108@N00/4615084867/" title="knockout roses and pink evening primrose by tammyleino, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3347/4615084867_1c0ce9daaf_m.jpg" alt="knockout roses and pink evening primrose" height="180" width="240" /></a><br /><br />I wish it were just 12" shorter, then I would leave it be, but at 24", it's hiding all my other perennials and spilling onto the sidewalk, which really annoys Ian!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/50325108@N00/4615705340/" title="pink evening primrose by tammyleino, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4069/4615705340_a0cd03baa8_m.jpg" alt="pink evening primrose" height="180" width="240" /></a><br /><br />I'll probably let the bees gather their last feeding from these blossoms today and yank it out this weekend. I'm sure it will be back in a couple weeks though. Gah ... When the seed packet said, "fills in quickly" I should have known what would happen!Goodboy Norman Featherstonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12816477519280692229noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23520611.post-88679930872110784112010-05-07T09:25:00.003-04:002010-05-07T10:02:52.791-04:00Hardscaping - How to Edge with Stone<span style="font-style: italic;">Hardscape </span>is a gardening term used to refer to anything structural that is not a plant; ie, bird bath, trellis, rock wall, edging, art, etc. I have been wanting to add some sort of border to the front yard perennial beds for some time, but just haven't been able to find the right material. Most pavers are made of poured concrete that just don't appeal to me. I prefer soft lines and natural materials. During a trip to Home Depot a couple weeks ago, we spotted a new paver made of real stone and decided it would be the perfect hardscape material for edging the beds.<br /><br />We aimed to edge along the lawn-facing side of the daisies.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/50325108@N00/2946314763/" title="knockout roses and perennials by tammyleino, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3167/2946314763_69b6ba0c4d_m.jpg" width="240" height="180" alt="knockout roses and perennials" /></a><br /><br />And last year's new perennial bed.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/50325108@N00/3525410929/" title="new perennial bed by tammyleino, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3360/3525410929_0d7688c5d6_m.jpg" width="240" height="180" alt="new perennial bed" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Step 1 - Outline the Path</span><br /><br />Carefully place each stone in its intended position, measuring the proper distance from a common anchor to ensure clean, straight lines. There is nothing more noticeable than a crooked line that was meant to be straight. <br /><br />Here we measured to ensure each stone is laid 12" from the sidewalk.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/50325108@N00/4586046617/" title="building the stone edging by tammyleino, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4006/4586046617_90398354a6_m.jpg" width="180" height="240" alt="building the stone edging" /></a><br /><br />The perennial bed was a little tricky since it is a flowing line of two arches. We employed a bit of high school math by measuring the distance between each of the two arches to ensure they are equal.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/50325108@N00/4586046115/" title="building the stone edging by tammyleino, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4065/4586046115_a9e0107001_m.jpg" width="180" height="240" alt="building the stone edging" /></a>v<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Step 2 - Edge the Sod</span><br /><br />Use an edging tool to cut a clean, deep line into the sod to denote where to start digging. A flat-head shovel could also be used for this step, but the edging tool is a little more convenient.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/50325108@N00/4586670714/" title="building the stone edging by tammyleino, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4026/4586670714_03197c95fd_m.jpg" width="240" height="180" alt="building the stone edging" /></a><br /><br />Once the line is cut, gather up the stones and set them aside.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Step 3 - Dig the Sod</span><br /><br />The sod can now be lifted out of the ground with a flat-head shovel. Don't use a regular shovel, as the curved blade will ruin your clean line.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/50325108@N00/4586671000/" title="building the stone edging by tammyleino, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4013/4586671000_4bc11e6881_m.jpg" width="180" height="240" alt="building the stone edging" /></a><br /><br />Smooth out the soil to create a flat, even foundation.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/50325108@N00/4586671346/" title="building the stone edging by tammyleino, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4036/4586671346_955243b945_m.jpg" width="180" height="240" alt="building the stone edging" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Step 4 - Prepare the Foundation</span><br /><br />The whole purpose of edging a bed is to keep a clean, weed-free line. With that in mind, measures must be taken to prevent weeds from growing up between the stones. <br /><br />Start by positioning a layer of landscape fabric in the newly dug trench. We doubled it over to provide extra protection.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/50325108@N00/4586671624/" title="building the stone edging by tammyleino, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4052/4586671624_15c86e199d_m.jpg" width="180" height="240" alt="building the stone edging" /></a><br /><br />Next, pour sand over the landscape fabric to create a level base for the stones.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/50325108@N00/4586671870/" title="building the stone edging by tammyleino, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4040/4586671870_dfc735ef56_m.jpg" width="180" height="240" alt="building the stone edging" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Step 5 - Set and Level the Stones</span><br /><br />Set the first stone in place, and add/remove sand beneath it as needed to create a level appearance.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/50325108@N00/4586672010/" title="building the stone edging by tammyleino, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4009/4586672010_e2e5c8abb0_m.jpg" width="180" height="240" alt="building the stone edging" /></a><br /><br />Each successive stone is laid at the same level as the previous stone, as close to the previous stone as possible. Try to minimize the gap between stones to keep weeds from sprouting up.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/50325108@N00/4586048365/" title="building the stone edging by tammyleino, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4071/4586048365_2823257e66_m.jpg" width="240" height="180" alt="building the stone edging" /></a><br /><br />This can be more difficult on curved areas. Try to keep the curve wide enough to reduce the required gap between stones.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/50325108@N00/4586046453/" title="building the stone edging by tammyleino, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4023/4586046453_40c4641f91_m.jpg" width="180" height="240" alt="building the stone edging" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Step 6 - Fill in the Gaps</span><br /><br />Brush <span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">polymeric paver sand</span> between the cracks of the stones. Do not use regular sand for this step. Polymeric paver sand hardens when wet. This prevents weeds from growing between the stones and keeps the stones in place.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/50325108@N00/4586045421/" title="building the stone edging by tammyleino, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4017/4586045421_2dba6dfc11_m.jpg" width="180" height="240" alt="building the stone edging" /></a><br /><br />Wipe away excess sand with a broom, then use the mist setting of the hose to water in the sand. Be gentle with the hose!<br /><br />And the project is complete!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/50325108@N00/4586669050/" title="building the stone edging by tammyleino, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3311/4586669050_d55d21c557_m.jpg" width="180" height="240" alt="building the stone edging" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/50325108@N00/4586669526/" title="building the stone edging by tammyleino, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4020/4586669526_83ae1599df_m.jpg" width="180" height="240" alt="building the stone edging" /></a><br /><br />This project took us about 4 hours to complete, but the benefits will last a very long time.Goodboy Norman Featherstonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12816477519280692229noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23520611.post-77861206567084301462010-04-23T08:57:00.002-04:002010-04-23T08:57:00.365-04:00SnowballedI planted four <a href="http://www.greenwoodnursery.com/page.cfm/87525">Japanese Snowball</a> bushes in 2006 that I ordered from Greenwood Nursery. (<span style="font-style: italic;">Wow, their prices have really gone up since then.</span>) It didn't take me four years to realize that the flat-headed "lacecap" flowers on my shrubs do not look like the fluffy white rounded snowball heads of the shrubs on the Greenwood Nursery website!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/50325108@N00/4542827825/" title="japanese snowball year 4 by tammyleino, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4038/4542827825_ca4fa2ff72_m.jpg" alt="japanese snowball year 4" height="180" width="240" /></a><br /><br />So I set out to find an explanation. I consulted the trusty Internet before contacting Greenwood Nursery, as I have called Greenwood with questions/problems in the past, and to be honest, they haven't established a good reputation with me for their customer service.<br /><br />I did a google image search for "<a href="http://images.google.com/images?um=1&hl=en&tbs=isch%3A1&sa=1&q=%22japanese+snowball%22&aq=f&aqi=&aql=&oq=&gs_rfai=&start=0">japanese snowball</a>" and found shrubs with various flowers, but all sharing the same arrow-shaped leaf. Apparently these shrubs are all different varieties of the genus "Viburnum." With over 150 species, I decided to give up trying to conclusively identify my viburnum and resorted to emailing Greenwood to draw the issue to their attention. They have not responded to my query.<br /><br />While it's not the plant I thought I was getting, it's still a lovely shrub. The Greenwood website claims the plant flowers Spring, Summer and Fall (<span style="font-style: italic;">which is one reason I was drawn to it</span>), but they're fibbers, as it only blooms in the Spring. I have no idea how tall it will be at maturity, but it is currently 5'. I'm hoping it doesn't get much taller, as it fits into this setting very nicely. Perhaps it wouldn't mind a little pruning in the Fall.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/50325108@N00/4542828175/" title="japanese snowball year 4 by tammyleino, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4033/4542828175_5f88a94c60_m.jpg" alt="japanese snowball year 4" height="240" width="180" /></a><br /><br />Read <a href="http://www.finegardening.com/plants/articles/viburnums-are-versatile-shrubs.aspx">this fantastic article from finegardening.com</a> for a more in-depth discussion of viburnum.Goodboy Norman Featherstonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12816477519280692229noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23520611.post-91884691320719054532010-04-22T09:35:00.003-04:002010-04-22T09:58:01.128-04:00Prairie PetiteLilac is my favorite scent on earth. It's too bad for me that lilacs bloom only once a year, and for a very short amount of time.<br /><br />When we moved into the house, I knew I wanted to plant lilac somewhere in the yard, but to be honest, I'm not really fond of the dull Summer foliage and oversized often leggy habit of the lilac bush. When I saw a "miniature" lilac in the <a href="http://www.parkseed.com/gardening/GP/homepage/page1">Park's Seed</a> catalogue, I was very excited, and despite the $30 price tag, ordered one for my purple and yellow perennial bed.<br /><br />Here is Prairie Petite at the start of his 4th year. It took this little fellow a lot of energy to make those two blooms you see there, so don't laugh!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/50325108@N00/4538985028/" title="prairie petite lilac year 4 by tammyleino, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4039/4538985028_b024297ab1_m.jpg" alt="prairie petite lilac year 4" height="240" width="180" /></a><br /><br />I don't think he's grown much since last year. This bush is supposed to stay under 4', but I didn't realize they meant this much under 4'!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/50325108@N00/3503746659/" title="prairie petite lilac year 3 by tammyleino, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3573/3503746659_d10cfb36b8_m.jpg" alt="prairie petite lilac year 3" height="240" width="180" /></a><br /><br />He was a tiny little guy at year 2.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/50325108@N00/2467194631/" title="prairie petite lilac bush by tammyleino, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2052/2467194631_c6098740aa_m.jpg" alt="prairie petite lilac bush" height="240" width="180" /></a><br /><br />But not as small as when I first planted him.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/50325108@N00/1150007820/" title="prairie petite lilac by tammyleino, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1288/1150007820_f2230ab2a8_m.jpg" alt="prairie petite lilac" height="240" width="180" /></a><br /><br />Since he isn't taking up much room, I'll let him stick around a while longer!<br /><br />Park's Seeds does not offer this plant at this time. I did find the same plant for sale at <a href="http://www.whiteflowerfarm.com/67573-product.html">White Flower Farm</a> if you are interested. I have never ordered from this site, but I have friends who reported good experiences with their plants.Goodboy Norman Featherstonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12816477519280692229noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23520611.post-55746183199957782242010-04-20T09:41:00.003-04:002010-04-22T09:58:25.010-04:00Nature's DiamondsThe roses are not yet blooming, but Mother Nature adorned them with an early gift a couple days ago - a strand of diamonds delicately strung around each tender leaf.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/50325108@N00/4535519813/" title="water beads on rose leaves by tammyleino, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4033/4535519813_383e7ea656_m.jpg" alt="water beads on rose leaves" height="180" width="240" /></a><br /><br />I was amazed how beautiful something so seemingly simple could be.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/50325108@N00/4535518853/" title="water beads on rose leaves by tammyleino, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4024/4535518853_8af4f89fd3_m.jpg" alt="water beads on rose leaves" height="180" width="240" /></a>Goodboy Norman Featherstonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12816477519280692229noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23520611.post-45030819640931790992010-04-14T08:42:00.001-04:002010-04-14T08:42:00.236-04:00Spring SurprisesThe herb garden was covered under several feet of snow this Winter at least four times. I was surprised to find so much green after the snow melted. I expected a brown twiggy mess!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/50325108@N00/4517986910/" title="herb garden by tammyleino, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4048/4517986910_fe095926e9_m.jpg" alt="herb garden" height="180" width="240" /></a><br /><br />The chives are from seeds I sowed two years ago. They finally look ready to eat!<br /><br />I learned today that parsley is not an annual as I had previously thought, but a biennial. A biennial does not bloom until its second year and then dies. This parsley didn't bloom last year, so I guess it will push out some seed this year and then retire. Although it's a biennial, I didn't expect to see it thriving under all that snow!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/50325108@N00/4517986092/" title="parsley survived winter? by tammyleino, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4027/4517986092_9164cf0913_m.jpg" alt="parsley survived winter?" height="180" width="240" /></a><br /><br />The chamomile was the big surprise. This is definitely an annual plant, but doesn't seem to know it. I sowed chamomile two years ago (with the chives), and it reseeded itself last spring. It did not bloom last year, so this is the same plant that survived countless hard freezes and of course a lot of snow.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/50325108@N00/4517986494/" title="chamomile survived winter? by tammyleino, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2766/4517986494_f6ffdd4562_m.jpg" alt="chamomile survived winter?" height="180" width="240" /></a><br /><br />I just never know what to expect from plants! It's like they've got a mind of their own ...Goodboy Norman Featherstonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12816477519280692229noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23520611.post-56214438097826667072010-04-13T08:07:00.001-04:002010-04-13T08:07:00.232-04:00Sowing the Spring VegWe broke ground in the vegetable garden two weekends ago. The main goal was to eradicate all the nasty weeds from the soil so the peas, lettuce and beets could take their place. We got most of the weeds dug out and the all the seeds sowed.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/50325108@N00/4502746778/" title="garden in spring by tammyleino, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2484/4502746778_9b6a6f06d3_m.jpg" alt="garden in spring" height="180" width="240" /></a><br /><br />This bed is just full of a new stubborn weed that has made its way into our yard - probably via a bird dropping or an ambitious squirrel storing up naughty seeds for the Winter.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/50325108@N00/4502113617/" title="weedy garden bed by tammyleino, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4036/4502113617_0029b2ef66_m.jpg" alt="weedy garden bed" height="180" width="240" /></a><br /><br />It forms a thick mat of white flowers, bolted into the ground by really strong roots. You have to dig it up with a shovel!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/50325108@N00/4502113971/" title="weed in the garden by tammyleino, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2784/4502113971_4d7306086e_m.jpg" alt="weed in the garden" height="180" width="240" /></a><br /><br />It's not horribly ugly, but it certainly doesn't belong in my vegetable garden! I gave a half-hearted attempt at identifying this weed, but gave up pretty quickly. If you know what it is, please share. I always like to call plants by name as I'm chucking them into the compost!Goodboy Norman Featherstonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12816477519280692229noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23520611.post-10286989477031181532010-04-12T08:40:00.001-04:002010-04-12T09:14:21.598-04:00SunbathingThe first week of April brought unusually warm temperatures for the mountains of western North Carolina. This wasn't much of a shock since our Winter was "unusually" cold. I'm learning quickly that there is never anything "usual" about the weather here in Asheville!<br /><br />Although it is a little early to think about hardening off the vegetable seedlings I sowed in early February, I thought I would bring the tomatoes out to stretch their legs in the warm sunshine.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/50325108@N00/4502114387/" title="tomato seedlings by tammyleino, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2761/4502114387_1c60737afe_m.jpg" alt="tomato seedlings" height="180" width="240" /></a><br /><br />I am growing <a href="http://www.parkseed.com/gardening/store/TextSearch?storeId=10101&SearchUnion=Y&CustSearchText=costoluto&x=0&y=0">Costoluto</a> for the third year, because it's my favorite variety and has proven itself year after year. I'm also trying two new varieties; <a href="http://www.parkseed.com/gardening/store/TextSearch?storeId=10101&SearchUnion=Y&CustSearchText=cupid&x=0&y=0">Cupid </a>, my first grape tomato, and my first yellow variety, <a href="http://thegardenpet.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=2_10_345_426&products_id=957&language=en">Jubilee</a>.<br /><br />I decided to retire my love for <a href="http://www.parkseed.com/gardening/store/TextSearch?storeId=10101&SearchUnion=Y&CustSearchText=marcellino&x=0&y=0">Marcellino</a> this year after an awful mess of cracked fruit last Summer. I just can't handle another heartbreak like that!<br /><br />Last year I used a seedling heat mat when sowing the veg to speed germination, then placed them under artificial grow lights. Something went wrong, because all the tomatoes were thin and spindly - <span style="font-style: italic;">poor little things</span>. I did some research this year and corrected my mistake - you have to place the seedlings no less than 2" from the light source. I propped the seed tray up on a couple of boxes to get the plants closer to the light, and this year I have a healthy lot!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/50325108@N00/4502748240/" title="hairy tomato legs by tammyleino, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4071/4502748240_02cc20d4f4_m.jpg" alt="hairy tomato legs" height="240" width="180" /></a><br /><br />At 8 weeks the stems of these plants are thicker than the ones I planted in the garden last year at 14 weeks!<br /><br />Have you ever wondered why tomatoes have such hairy legs?<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/50325108@N00/4502115041/" title="hairy tomato legs by tammyleino, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4036/4502115041_9e6ebe257d_m.jpg" alt="hairy tomato legs" height="240" width="180" /></a><br /><br />I've looked all around the Internet and can't find a conclusive explanation. One source claims the hair secretes an antibiotic, while another claims the little hairs assist new root growth. If you have your own answer, please share it with me!<br /><br />Now I just have to hold off until Mother's Day weekend to set these beauties in the ground. Blast mother nature for trying to trick me with this warm weather! I know there's another hard freeze around the corner, lady. You can't fool me!!Goodboy Norman Featherstonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12816477519280692229noreply@blogger.com3