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plate of pasta with tomato sauce on dark table, top view
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“Change the food in the schools and we can influence how children think. Change the curriculum and teach them how to garden and how to cook and we can show that growing food and cooking and eating together give lasting richness, meaning, and beauty to our lives.” ― Alice Waters
If you have been following me for any length of time, you know I am an advocate for kids in the garden. Over the years, you’ve watched my children grow in my gardens helping to build new raised beds, harvesting the crops, and finally helping prepare the fruits of our labors in the kitchen.
I believe every school in the country should have a school garden in order to teach our children where food comes from. I will be discussing in upcoming blogs how to incorporate kids in the garden, as well as the anonymity of food in our culture today. This is the main reason why I think it is crucial to incorporate school gardens!’
Thankfully, school gardens have become increasingly popular in recent years, and for good reason. Incorporating a garden into a school’s curriculum can have a range of benefits for students, teachers, and the wider community.
In today’s blog post, I am going to provide you with the many benefits of incorporating a school garden and why it’s a worthwhile investment for any educational institution.
Now let’s look at the many benefits school gardens can have!
Let’s Look at the Academic Benefits of School Gardens!
School gardens have the ability to provide a hands-on and engaging way for students to learn about science, math, and other subjects. For example, students can learn about the life cycle of plants, the importance of pollination, and the role of soil nutrients in plant growth. They can also use math skills to measure the growth of plants and calculate the amount of water and fertilizer needed.
School gardens also provide an opportunity to help students develop critical thinking skills as they problem-solve and make decisions about garden design, plant selection, and pest management.
Besides enhancing academic learning, school gardens can also foster teamwork, leadership, and communication skills. Students can work in groups to plan and plant the garden, share responsibilities for watering and weeding, and harvest the produce. They can also take on leadership roles by leading garden tours, organizing fundraising events, and teaching younger students about gardening. Through these activities, students can develop a sense of responsibility, confidence, and teamwork.
What are Some of the Potential Health Benefits of School Gardens?
School gardens can promote healthy eating habits and improve overall health. When kids can grow their own fruits and vegetables, they now have the opportunity to learn about the nutritional value of different foods and develop a taste for fresh, healthy produce. They can also learn about the benefits of eating a variety of fruits and vegetables and the importance of balanced diets.
School gardens can help address issues of food insecurity and promote healthy eating habits among students and their families. The produce grown in the garden can be used in school meals or donated to local food banks, providing fresh and nutritious food to those in need. By involving families in the garden project, schools can also encourage parents and caregivers to incorporate healthy foods into their own meals.
And let’s face it… kids are more likely to try something they decided to grow!
What are Some of the Potential Environmental Benefits of School Gardens?
School gardens can promote environmental awareness and encourage sustainable practices. By learning about the importance of soil health, water conservation, and biodiversity, students can develop a sense of stewardship for the environment. They can also learn about the impact of human activities on the environment and ways to reduce their ecological footprint.
Moreover, school gardens can provide habitat for wildlife and attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies. By planting native species and avoiding the use of pesticides and herbicides, school gardens can help support local ecosystems and promote biodiversity.
This is another opportunity to teach kids about the benefits of organic gardening and incorporating companion planting, rather than using harmful chemicals.
Can the Local Community Benefit From School Gardens?
The answer to this question is a responding YES! School gardens have the ability to serve as a valuable resource for the wider community. By donating produce to local food banks or hosting community events such as farmers’ markets or garden tours, schools can help promote healthy eating habits and support local food systems.
They can also serve as a gathering place for community members, fostering social connections and community involvement.
School gardens can also provide opportunities for intergenerational learning and mentorship. By involving older adults or community members with gardening experience, schools can create meaningful connections between generations and promote lifelong learning.
That Sounds Great! Now, How can I Help Start a School Garden in my Community?
Starting a school garden can seem daunting, but with the right resources and support, it can be a rewarding and successful project. Here are some steps to get started:
Get support from school administrators, teachers, and parents. Starting a school garden requires buy-in from all stakeholders, as well as support for funding and maintenance.
Find a suitable location for the garden. Look for a sunny, well-drained area with access to water and close to the school. Ensure that the site is safe and accessible for students.
Develop a garden plan. Consider the garden’s size, layout, and design, as well as the types of plants to grow. Involve students in the planning process to ensure that the garden reflects their interests and needs.
Secure funding and resources. Look for grants, donations, or partnerships with local organizations or businesses to support the garden’s development and maintenance.
Involve students in the garden project. Encourage students to take ownership of the garden by involving them in the planning, planting, and maintenance. Provide opportunities for leadership and teamwork.
Integrate the garden into the curriculum. Use the garden as a teaching tool to support academic learning and promote healthy lifestyles.
We Have Our School Garden! Now, How Do We Maintain It?
Maintaining a school garden requires ongoing care and attention. Here are some tips to keep the garden healthy and productive:
Develop a maintenance plan. Create a schedule for watering, weeding, fertilizing, and pest management. Involve students in the maintenance activities to ensure that they take ownership of the garden.
Provide ongoing support and training for teachers and volunteers. Ensure that they have the knowledge and skills to maintain the garden and address any issues that may arise.
Use sustainable practices. Avoid the use of pesticides and herbicides, and use organic methods for weed and pest control. Compost garden waste to improve soil health.
Involve the wider community. Encourage families and community members to volunteer in the garden and participate in events such as harvest festivals or farmers’ markets.
What are Some Curriculum Ideas for School Gardens?
School gardens can be integrated into a range of subjects and learning activities. Here are some curriculum ideas for school gardens:
Science: Learn about plant growth, soil health, and the life cycle of plants.
Math: Use the garden to teach measurement, geometry, and data analysis.
Language arts: Write garden journals, poetry, or stories about the garden.
Social studies: Learn about the history of agriculture, food systems, and cultural traditions related to gardening.
Art: Use the garden as inspiration for art projects such as painting, sculpture, or photography.
Nutrition: Learn about the nutritional value of different fruits and vegetables, and use the garden to prepare healthy meals and snacks.
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“ Growing your own fruit at home is a wonderful treat and a huge money saver. Homegrown food of any kind tastes delicious and being able to go outside and pick fresh fruit from a tree is something everyone should experience.” ― Julio Belson
You may think growing grapes is for those who want to make wine. Well, that is only one of many reasons you would grow grapes. I had a beautiful grape arbor of just four vines to make my own grape juice and jellies. I never used any of them for wine, however that’s not to say you can’t.
So let’s get started! Today I’m going to show you how easy it is to plant your own grape arbor and to care for them!
So why bother growing grapes you ask? Well, maybe you’re someone who enjoys gardening and wants to try something new. Planting grapes and building a grape arbor can be a fun and rewarding experience. Not only will you have fresh grapes to enjoy, but you’ll also have a beautiful addition to your garden or backyard.
But how do you get started? In today’s Gardening 101, I’m going to walk you through the steps of planting grapes, building an arbor, and caring for your grapevines. From selecting the right variety of grapes to pruning and harvesting, I’ll cover everything you need to know to create a thriving grapevine. So grab your gardening gloves and let’s get started on creating your very own grape arbor.
How do I decide the perfect location for my grapes?
The first step in planting grapes is selecting the perfect location. Grapevines need plenty of sunlight, good drainage, and protection from strong winds. Ideally, you should choose a spot that gets at least six hours of sunlight per day, with well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Avoid planting in areas that are prone to flooding or have poor drainage, as this can lead to root rot and other issues. You’ll also want to make sure the area is protected from strong winds, as this can damage the vines and reduce grape production.
When selecting the location for your grapevines, consider the size of the area you have available. Grapevines can grow quite large, so you’ll need to make sure you have enough space to accommodate them. If you’re planting more than one vine, you’ll want to space them at least six feet apart to allow for optimal growth. Keep in mind that grapevines can also be trained to climb trellises or arbors, which can help save space and create a beautiful focal point in your garden.
What’s the right grape variety for me?
There are hundreds of grape varieties to choose from, each with its own unique flavor and growing requirements. When selecting grape varieties, consider your climate, soil type, and personal taste preferences. Some popular grape varieties for home gardeners include Concord, Niagara, and Thompson Seedless. These varieties are easy to grow and produce delicious grapes that are perfect for eating fresh or making wine. I grew the Concord variety due to what I wanted to make with my grapes. Take into consideration what you are going to do with them.
If you’re looking for a specific flavor or want to grow grapes for wine-making, do your research to find the best variety for your needs. Some grape varieties are better suited for cooler climates, while others thrive in warmer temperatures. You’ll also want to consider the type of soil you have, as some grape varieties prefer sandy soils while others do better in loamy or clay soils.
Once you’ve selected your grape varieties, it’s time to prepare the soil for planting.
Now it’s time to build your grape arbor!
This photo was my grape arbor at my farm.
A grape arbor is a beautiful and functional addition to any garden or backyard. It provides support for your grapevines to climb on, as well as a shaded area to relax and enjoy your grapes. To build a grape arbor, start by selecting the right materials.
You’ll need sturdy wooden posts. I recommend using 4x4x8 pressure-treated pine posts. I used hog paneling for my grapes to grow on. They are easy to attach to the posts with U shaped nails and are heavy-duty enough to withstand the weight of the vines when weighed down with the grape clusters. You can also add decorative elements such as lattice panels or climbing plants to make your arbor even more beautiful. Metal twine also works, but it will rust quickly and evenly break in a few years. I don’t recommend the wire for anything you want long term.
PRO TIP: The key thing to remember when choosing your material for the grapes to grow on is allowance for your hand to go through the holes to harvest the grapes, as well as the grape clusters to grow through!
To build the arbor, start by digging holes for the posts at least two feet deep. Set the posts in the holes and fill with concrete to secure them in place. I use Quikrete because it dries quickly.
Once the posts are set, attach the material you chose for the grapes to grow on. If you use the metal wire, attach to the top of each post and stretch it across to the other side, securing it with nails or screws. Repeat this process until you have created a grid of wires or twine for the grapevines to climb on.
When can I plant my grape vines and how do I?
Grapevines can be planted in the spring or fall, depending on your climate and grape variety. When planting, make sure to dig a hole that is twice as wide and deep as the grapevine’s root ball. Gently loosen the roots and place the vine in the hole, making sure the soil is level with the surrounding ground. Plant each vine centered between the two posts, only one for each 6 foot section.
The vine will more than likely not be long enough to reach the bottom of your new trellis or arbor. You will need to watch, and as it grows, carefully begin training it onto the material you choose to grow your grapes on. You can use garden tape in the beginning to secure the vine onto the fencing. This will help the vine grow upward and make it easier to prune and harvest the grapes.
After planting, water your grapevines thoroughly and add a layer of mulch around the base to help retain moisture and prevent weeds. I recommend you purchase a bale of straw for each vine and spread it out evenly about 2 feet wide between each 6 foot section.
Grapevine care and maintenance
To ensure your grapevines grow and produce healthy grapes, it’s important to provide proper care and maintenance. This includes regular watering, fertilizing, pruning, and pest control.
Grapevines need regular watering, especially during hot and dry weather. Aim to water your grapevines at least once a week, giving them a deep soaking to encourage deep root growth. You can also add a layer of mulch around the base of the vines to help retain moisture and prevent weeds.
Fertilizing is also important for grapevine growth and grape production. You can use a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 or 8-8-8 blend, and apply it in the spring and early summer. Be careful not to over-fertilize, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth and reduced grape production.
Pruning is essential for grapevine growth and grape production. In the winter, prune your grape vines by removing any dead or damaged wood, as well as any shoots that grew from the base of the plant. You’ll also want to thin out any overcrowded or crossing branches to improve air circulation and sunlight exposure. During the growing season, remove any new shoots that emerge from the base of the plant to encourage upward growth.
Finally, it’s important to protect your grapevines from pests and diseases. Common grapevine pests include aphids, spider mites, and Japanese beetles. You can use insecticidal soap or horticultural oil to control these pests, or introduce beneficial insects such as ladybugs or lacewings. To prevent diseases such as powdery mildew or black rot, make sure your grapevines have good air circulation and avoid overhead watering.
Now it’s time to harvest & enjoy your grapes!
After all your hard work, it’s time to enjoy the fruits of your labor. Grapes are typically ready to harvest in late summer or early fall, depending on the grape variety and climate. To harvest grapes, simply cut the grape clusters from the vine using a sharp pair of scissors or pruning shears.
You can enjoy your grapes fresh, or use them to make juice, jelly, or wine. There are many resources available for home winemakers, so do some research to find the best method for your needs.
PRO TIP: Your grapes will be able to endure a light frost, and being frosted will make them sweeter!
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“I love things that are indescribable, like the taste of an avocado or the smell of a gardenia. ” Barbra Streisand
Welcome to Day 18 of my Gardening 101 Part 2 on how-to create a container garden. In Part 1 I discussed how to create an herb container garden, today let’s look at how to incorporate veggies into containers.
Many of the elements will be similar, especially in the types of containers, making this post a bit shorter. If you missed Part 1, just jump on over for an informative recap!
If you are a novice gardener you may be wondering how you can grow veggies in containers. You may be an experienced gardener who is considering the option of moving your veggies from a standard tillable garden to downsize or just utilize space more effectively.
If you are a novice gardener you may be wondering how you can grow veggies in containers. You may be an experienced gardener who is considering the option of moving your veggies from a standard tillable garden to downsize or just utilize space more effectively.
If you’ve been eyeing up container gardening lately, then you’re probably wondering what it has to offer you. After all, growing in a garden doesn’t really work like that. As you all know I am a huge advocate for container and raised bed gardening. Raised beds are in reality just another form of containers, as I showed in Part 1. You can grow herbs and vegetables in a standard tillable garden, but that type of gardening takes so much more effort and planning. With container gardening, everything becomes simpler and more accessible than it is with other methods.
If you missed my two part series on the benefits of raised bed gardening, click these links. Part 1 and Part 2.
Have you been wondering how to get started with a vegetable garden, or just want to be able to grow your own vegetables at home? Well, a vegetable container garden might be just the answer you’re looking for. A vegetable container garden is essentially an easy way to extend the space of your yard so you can grow plants more effectively.
With this guide, I’ll be showing you everything you need to know about creating successful container gardens as well as the many benefits they have to offer. After reading through the following tips, you will understand why having a container garden is one of the best ways to enjoy fresh fruits and vegetables all year round.
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“Help us to be ever faithful gardeners of the spirit, who know that without darkness nothing comes to birth, and without light nothing flowers. ” May Sarton
Welcome to Part 2 of my Easy 5 Step How-to Plan Your Spring Garden. If you missed episode 11 Part 1, be sure to check that out for some fundamental basics.
In today’s post, I am going to show you how to map out your garden. I do this every year so I can look back year after year. With that data, I can be sure to ensure I am rotating my crops effectively so I can rebuild my soil and the nutrients needed. It also helps me determine if I need to grow more or less of a particular crop.
This year is going to be an all new project. As you all know, we just moved into our new home this past December and I am creating an entirely new garden space. I’ve purchased 7 galvanized metal raised beds, (I am SOOO excited), so this is going to be a big project.
I will need to kill all the sod in the space, level the ground, install the ground cover, raised beds, and peestone. To say the least, it’s going to be some back breaking work… I’m so thankful for my boys and Dave who will be helping me install this. Each year the kids usually help me do yard work on Mothers Day weekend, so that is this year’s task!
I am also looking into a small greenhouse… but more on that. If not this year, maybe next. Fingers crossed friends!
This is what I will be working with this year. As you can see, it is a very nice sized space, and I love it is fenced in. Actually, it’s almost as big as my raised bed garden area at my previous home. But, you can see all the work that will be going into it. The table and chairs will be my reprieve in the garden… I cannot wait!
Planning your spring vegetable garden can be a fun and rewarding experience when done right. It allows you to grow your own fresh produce, save money on groceries, and enjoy the benefits of gardening. However, it’s important to take the time to plan and prepare properly to ensure a successful harvest. In drawing out your garden plot, you will have a much better chance at success.
Here’s my easy step-by-step approach to designing your garden!
Location, location, location!
The first step in planning your spring vegetable garden is to choose the right location. A sunny spot with well-drained soil is ideal for most vegetables. If you have a small yard or limited space, you can still have a vegetable garden by using raised beds or container gardening.
What are you planning to grow?
Next, you’ll need to decide which vegetables to grow. Consider which vegetables you and your family like to eat and what will grow well in your climate. Some popular spring vegetables include lettuce, spinach, radishes, peas, and broccoli. It’s also a good idea to choose a variety of vegetables so you have a steady supply of fresh produce throughout the spring.
How much space do you have, & how much space do you need?
When planning your garden, it’s important to consider the spacing requirements of the vegetables you’ve chosen. Most vegetables need at least six hours of direct sunlight per day, so make sure to position your garden in an area that gets plenty of sun. Also consider the mature size of the plants and make sure they have enough space to grow and flourish.
If you are going to garden in a tillable plot, be sure to test your soil!
A soil test will give you an idea of the pH level, nutrient content, and other characteristics of your soil. This will help you determine which vegetables will grow best and what, if any, soil amendments you need to make. If your soil is heavy clay, you may need to add organic matter to improve its structure. If your soil is sandy, you may need to add compost or other organic matter to help retain moisture.
Get your soil prepared!
After you’ve decided on the location and vegetables, it’s time to start preparing the soil. If you have a small area to work with, you can use a garden fork or trowel to turn over the soil and remove any debris. If you have a larger area, you can use a rototiller. Clear the area of any weeds or debris, and add any necessary soil amendments.
It’s all in the timing!
Another important aspect of planning a spring vegetable garden is timing. It’s important to know when to plant your vegetables so they will have enough time to mature before the hot summer weather arrives. You can find this information in gardening books or on the internet. Some vegetables, such as peas and lettuce, can be planted as early as the soil can be worked in the spring, while others, such as tomatoes and peppers, should not be planted until the weather has warmed up.
When planning your garden spot, especially if this is your first time, be sure you have an accessible water source nearby. Even if you have to connect a couple hoses together that’s fine, but you do not want to have to worry about carrying water and using a watering can. Believe me, you will become quickly disheartened!
It’s important to remember to water and fertilize your vegetable garden regularly. Most vegetables need about an inch of water per week. You can use a watering can or a hose with a sprinkler attachment to water your garden. It’s also a good idea to use a slow-release fertilizer to ensure that your vegetables get the nutrients they need throughout the growing season.
Wrapping it up!
Planning your vegetable garden can be a fun and rewarding experience if you take all these factors into consideration. By choosing the right location, selecting appropriate crops for your needs and area, tending to your soil, timing your planting, and providing regular care, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of fresh produce all season long.
Remember, gardening is a trial and error process and it’s okay to make mistakes. Keep learning and experimenting, and you’ll find that gardening becomes more enjoyable and productive over time.
I certainly hope you are encouraged to grow your own food. Even if you start with only two or three of these things, that’s a great start!
If you enjoyed this blog , please LIKE, Follow, Share & leave me a comment! I love your feedback!
If you aren’t following me on Facebook or Instagram, go on over & give a LIKE & Follow me for daily tips & tricks for your home & garden!
Until next time friends, eat fresh, shop local, & have a happy day, Jean
Copyright Policy
All text and images on this site are copyright of For Dragonflies And Me. Unless otherwise noted, you may not use this content.
“Growing your own food may be one of the most powerful steps you can take for the health of yourself, your family, and your planet.” ― Lindsay Oberst (foodrevolution.org)
Welcome to Day 6 of my Gardening 101 Series! I am excited to share with all of you how easy it is to plant and care for asparagus so you have beautiful & bountiful harvests for years to come.
Asparagus is one of my favorite vegetables, and the fact it is a perennial that produces more and more each season is a huge bonus! It is a delicious and healthy vegetable that is relatively easy to grow, but it does require some special care when planting. To ensure optimal success follow these five easy steps.
Here are my five easy steps for planting and caring for asparagus:
Location, Location, Location!
Choose the right location: Asparagus prefers well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.8. It also needs full sun, so choose a spot in your garden that gets at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
PRO TIP: Whether you grow your asparagus in a raised bed like me, or in a regular garden be sure to give each crown 2 square feet to grow. It will fill that space in just a few short years.
I will do a YouTube video this spring when I am planting my new asparagus crowns in my NEW raised bed garden!
Timing is everything!
Plant at the right time: Asparagus should be planted in the spring, as soon as the soil can be worked. This will give the plants enough time to establish themselves before the hot summer weather arrives.
To Plant:
Dig a 12 inch deep trench allowing for 2 feet between each crown.
Mound up a pile of soil every 2 feet about 6 inches high. It should resemble an upside down icecream cone.
Take one asparagus crown and place it on top of the cone spreading the roots around. It should look an octopus.
Bury the entire crown up to the base of the soil. It should be covered at by 6 inches of soil. Tamp down & water.
You will see shoots popping up within one to two weeks of planting.
What variety should you plant?
Use the right variety: There are two main types of asparagus: green and purple. Green asparagus is the most common and is the variety that is most commonly found in grocery stores. Purple asparagus is less common, but has a sweeter taste. Both varieties are easy to grow, so choose the one that you prefer or grow both!
PRO TIP: If you want to have white asparagus, cover the plants with a bucket to deprive the plant of sunlight. Yes, it’s that easy! Some people even cover the spears with dirt, but it is hard to get the dirt out of the tips.
Feed it!!
Fertilize regularly: Asparagus is a heavy feeder and will need regular fertilization to grow well. Use a balanced fertilizer, such as 10-10-10, and apply it to the soil around the plants every four to six weeks during the growing season.
PRO TIP:I use fish emulsion to fertilize my veggies. Neptune’s Harvest is my preferred brand!
Time to feed you!
Harvest correctly: You can start harvesting asparagus the third year after planting. Once you see the asparagus growing, wait until the stalk is about 6-8 inches in height and cut it off. Do not harvest too much in the first year to allow the plant to grow and establish itself.
PRO TIP: Each year the parent crown produces more off shoots or stems. In the spring avoid harvesting the thinner ones as these are the newest stems. Choose the medium to large size stems and enjoy!
Asparagus is a delicious and healthy vegetable that is easy to grow, and following these tips will ensure that you get a great crop of asparagus every year.
I certainly hope you are encouraged to grow your own food. Even if you start with only two or three of these things, that’s a great start!
Don’t be dismayed if you don’t have a yard to garden in, container gardening is a great alternative.
If you enjoyed this blog , please LIKE, Follow, Share & leave me a comment! I love your feedback!
If you aren’t following me on Facebook or Instagram, go on over & give a LIKE & Follow me for daily tips & tricks for your home & garden!
Happy Day, Jean
Copyright Policy
All text and images on this site are copyright of For Dragonflies And Me. Unless otherwise noted, you may not use this content.
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Enjoy friends & thanks so much for your support!
If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss a beat!
I certainly hope you are encouraged to grow your own food. Even if you start with only two or three of these things, that’s a great start! Don’t be dismayed if you don’t have a yard to garden in, container gardening is a great alternative. If you enjoyed this blog , please LIKE, Follow, Share & leave me a comment! I love your feedback.
If you aren’t following me on Facebook or Instagram, go on over & give a LIKE & Follow me for daily tips & tricks for your home & garden!
Until next time friends remember to Eat fresh, shop local, & have a happy day!
“Gardening simply does not allow one to be mentally old, because too many hopes and dreams are yet to be realized.” – Allan Armitage
Today’s podcast is the first of 13 discussions in my Gardening How-to Series. This series will appear here at my blog, at my Podcast AND my YouTube Channel! The first topic will focus on what I believe is the foundation for all gardeners. What type of seeds do you want to plant? I am going to discuss why I prefer them, the benefits of Heirloom seeds versus hybrids, & much more.
I have always said I believe the ancients decided February would only have twenty-eight days (except on the leap year) because humans needed a slight reprieve from the doldrums of winter for those of us who live in cold climate zones. Yes, yes, yes… I know some of you listening to this may be happy for this said reprieve… but not me. I live & love for the warm days of spring, summer, & fall.
All the glory these three seasons dole out… I breath and live this. If you are a die hard gardener… you know what I’m saying.
The snow is covering the ground, yet we who are lovers of the dirt long to see the earth come alive once again. Spring is so near we can feel it in the warmth of the suns rays as it shines graciously down upon us. Yes February is the time we see spring’s arrival is ever so close!
As promised I will be focusing on garden how-to topics during the month of February. To see the complete list of topics, check out my blog post HERE & be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss a beat!
Here are my favorites in order of appearance: Below: Lemon Cucumbers To the Right: First row: Super Italian Paste Roma tomatoes, Roma Beans, Forellenschulss Second row: Jericho Lettuce, Bloomsdale Spinach, Rainbow Swiss Chard Third Row: Chioggia Beet, Red Russian Kale, Rosa Bianca Eggplant
Below: Golden Bantam Sweet Corn, Sugar Snap Peas
Below: Row 1: Late Flat Dutch Cabbage, Sweet Dumpling Squash, & Purple Potatoes Row 2: Jimmy Nardello Sweet Pepper, Varity of Heirloom Carrots including Cosmic Purple, French Breakfast Radish
For easy reference, here is the list of my favorite Heirloom varieties for home gardening & seed resources:
Tomatoes:
Beefsteak: Pineapple, Brandywine- all colors, Paul Robeson, Dr. Whyche’s, Hillbilly
Roma’s:Super Italian Paste, Plum Lemon, Roman Candle, all the Icicles, Striped Roman
Salad types: Green and Red Zebra, Woodle Orange, Rose De Berne, Stupice, White Tomesol
Cherry & Grapes:Riesentraube, Violet Jasper, Blondkopchen, Red & White Current, Chocolate Cherry, Sungold, Yellow Pear
Lettuces:
Rein’s De Glace, Merrillville de Four Seasons, Grandpa’s, Red Oak Leaf, Jericho, Forellenschulus or Speckled Like a Trout’s Back, Rubin’s Romaine, Butter Crunch, Lolla Rossa, May Queen, Parris Island Cos, Rouge D’Hiver
Spinach:
Bloomsdale Longstanding, New Zealand, Merlo Nero
Swiss Chard:
Rainbow, Fordhook, Golden
Beets:
Detroit Dark Red, Early Wonder, Chioggia, Golden Detroit, Crosby’s Egyptian, Cylindra, Bulls Blood
Beans:
String: Blue Lake Bush, Contender Wax: Golden Wax Roma: *Roma, Dragon Tongue, Purple Podded Pole
Cabbage:
Late Flat Dutch, Early Jersey Wakefield, Henderson’s Charleston Wakefield, Perfection Drumhead Savoy, Mammoth Red Rock
Broccoli:
Calabrese, Waltham 29, Green Sprouting
Cauliflower:
Purple Of Sicily, Giant of Naples, Snowball Self Blanching
Peppers: Sweet: Jimmy Nardello- my personal favorite- long, sweet frying peppers Red & Golden Marconi, Purple Beauty, Sweet Chocolate Hot: Early Jalapeno, Anaheim, Hungarian Hot Wax
Peas:
Mammoth Melting Sugar, Sugar Snap, Lincoln
Carrots:
Cosmic Purple, Lunar White, Amarillo, Atomic Red, Chantenay Red Core, Danvers Long
Cucumbers:
Lemon, Marketmore 76, Boston Pickling
Eggplant:
Rosa Bianca, Black Beauty, Purple Long, Thai Long
Winter Squash:
Waltham Butternut, Acorn, Sweet Dumpling, Delicata, Spaghetti, Green or Orange Buttercup
Summer Squash:
Round De Nice, Fordhook Zucchini, Prolific Straightneck, Patty Pan, Starburst
Radishes:
White Icicle, Purple Plum, French Breakfast, Cherry Belle, Black Spanish, Pink Beauty
Sweet Corn: For most home gardeners, it is hard to move away from the Hybrids because of the Super Sweet genes that have been introduced in them… but if you want to try an Heirloom, this is a very good one. Golden Bantam
Resources for seed companies I’ve personally used.
Resources: Here are a few of my favorite seed catalogs to order from
BONUS::::Here are a couple yummy Fall Storage Crop recipes to keep you warm and cozy… enjoy!
Roasted Carrot Soup
6-8 medium carrots, peeled & cut into 1 inch pieces 1 c coarsely chopped onion 1 tbsp olive oil 2 14.5 ounce cans chicken broth 1 tsp smoked paprika 1 tsp lemon juice Salt & black pepper
1.Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Toss carrots, & onion with oil to coat. Spread veggies in a single layer in a shallow baking pan. Roast for 20 minutes or until tender. 2. In a large saucepan combine roasted vegetables, broth, and paprika . Bring to boiling. Cool slightly. 3. Transfer half the vegetable mixture at a time to a blender or food processor. Blend or process until smooth. Return mixture to saucepan. Add lemon juice. Heat through. Season with salt & pepper.
Poached Beets
3/4 c apple juice 1/2 c water 1 tbsp packed brown sugar 2 1/2 pounds beets, peeled & cut into bite size pieces Salt & pepper Honey 1 tbsp snipped fresh parsley
1. In a large saucepan combine 1/2 c of the apple juice, the water, and brown sugar. Bring to boiling, stirring to dissolve sugar. Add beets. Return to boiling; reduce heat. Simmer, covered, about 45 minutes or until beets are tender & can be pierced with a fork, stirring occasionally. Drain. 2. Transfer beets to serving bowl. Sprinkle remaining juice over beets. Season to taste with salt & pepper. If desired, drizzle with honey.
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Happy Day, Jean
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“Help us to be ever faithful gardeners of the spirit, who know that without darkness nothing comes to birth, and without light nothing flowers. ” May Sarton
Check out the great list of content coming to you in the month of February!
Who is ready to get back into the dirt?
Some of you reading this may live in a climate where gardening happily goes on year round. I live in Michigan, so unless a gardener has ways to extend their growing season, then we dream of spring.
The use of green houses, cold frames, or similar methods can increase your growing season remarkably in cold climate zones.
This month I have a great lineup of garden related posts I’ll be sharing both here, at my Podcast, AND my YouTube channel! Be sure to check out my Facebook Events page for the full line up of Podcasts and REGISTER so you don’t miss a beat!
Check out this great line up topics friends!
February How-to Garden Topics!
Heirloom Seeds: Why I prefer them, their benefits & more.PODCAST
Join me for the first topic at my Podcast as I discuss the benefits & why I prefer Heirloom Seeds over Hybrid.
Seed Catalogs: How-to get your first order in! YouTube
How do you decide what seed catalog to shop from? How do I choose from the plethora of varieties? Today I’ll help guide you through placing your order & sharing my personal favorites I’ve used for years!
My Top 10 Easy Vegetables to Grow, & How-to Care for Them.
Today I’ll share my Top 10 favorite & super easy vegetables to grow. I’ll also share tips & tricks to have a successful growing season.
My Top 10 Favorite Herbs to Grow, & How-to Care for Them.YouTube
Let’s talk herbs!!! I’ll go over my favorite tried & true herbs and how-to care for them. I’ll explain the difference between annual, biennials, & perennials herbs!
My Top 5 Favorite Perennial Fruits & Vegetables, & How-to Grow & Care for them.PODCAST
Do you want to save money on your grocery bills? Today I’ll share my Top 5 Perennial Fruits & Vegetables, and How-to grow & care for them. It’s so easy & you’ll be amazed you haven’t been growing these for years already!
How-to Plant Asparagus, Care for it, and harvest!
One of springs first vegetables. This hardy vegetable will provide your family with years of fresh asparagus! Join me today as I share tips & tricks on how-to plant, care, & harvest your asparagus.
Easy How-to Plan Your Spring Garden! PODCAST
Planning your garden is the first step to preparing for success! Join me today as I discuss the importance of mapping out your garden whether or not you have raised beds or a tradition plot garden.
How-to Design & Build a Raised Bed Garden & the Benefits over a Traditional Garden. PODCAST
I love talking about Raised Bed Gardening & showing how & why they are so much more practical then traditional tilled gardens. Join me today as I explain why you should take the leap into raised bed gardening. It’s easier than you think!
Step-by-Step How-to Build a Cold Frame.
If you live in a cold climate zone like I do, then you will want to learn how-to extend your growing season by using this simple method. Cold frames are easy & inexpensive to build. This photo was taken from Pinterest for Bonnie Plants.
Top 10 Gardening Tools Every Gardener Should Have! YouTube
With the proper gardening tools, gardening is much easier and not so hard on your hands or back. Join me today as I show you my favorite tools and discuss the best way’s to use them.
How-to Compost & the Benefits for the Home Gardener.
To compost, or not to compost… that is the question! Join me today as I discuss the benefits of composting for the home gardener. It’s easier than you think it is!
Sunflowers: My Top 10 Favorites & Why You Should Grow Them. YouTube
Who doesn’t love the sunny face of a sunflower? Did you know there are dozens of varieties? Just for fun lets wrap up the cold days of February with a beautiful display of sunflowers.
Looking forward to seeing you all in February!
If you enjoyed this post , please LIKE,Follow, Share & leave me a comment! I love your feedback!
If you aren’t following me onInstagramOr Facebook, go on over & give a LIKE & Follow me for daily tips & tricks for your home & garden!
Happy Day, Jean
Copyright Policy All text and images on this site are copyright of For Dragonflies And Me. Unless otherwise noted, you may not use this content without written permission.
For Dragonflies And Me 