“It is only the farmer who faithfully plants seeds in the Spring, who reaps a harvest in the Autumn. ” B. C. Forbes
You may have recently seen my last episode on Why Trellising Your Tomato Plants is a Must-Do and 5 Tips for Successwhich somewhat relates to today’s topic on vertical gardening. In today’s episode I will be elaborating on this topic and showing you the benefits of gardening vertically!
Vertical gardening is a gardening technique that simply involves growing plants vertically, taking advantage of unused vertical space while creating a stunning visual display. Not only does it allow you to maximize your garden space, but it also has numerous benefits, including easier maintenance, better air circulation, and less pest and disease problems. If you’re new to vertical gardening and don’t know where to start, don’t worry – this beginner’s guide has got you covered. I’ll take you through the basics, from choosing the right plants and materials to setting up your vertical garden and caring for your plants. Get ready to elevate your garden game and create a stunning, space-saving garden that’s sure to impress.
Check out my YouTube video below for the whole scoop on vertical gardening & how it will benefit you!
I certainly hope you are encouraged to garden. Even if you start with only two or three of these things, that’s a great start!
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Until next time friends, eat fresh, shop local, & have a happy day, Jean
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“In the spring, at the end of the day, you should smell like dirt.” Margaret Atwood
Mulching your raised beds is crucial for optimal growth. There are several benefits to mulching with grass clippings, however there are a few techniques that you need to know!
Check out my easy tutorial on Gardening 101~ How-to Mulch Your Raised Beds with Grass Clippings. Check out my YouTube Video below!
Keep posted for my upcoming blog on the benefits of mulching with grass clippings!
I certainly hope you are encouraged to garden. Even if you start with only two or three of these things, that’s a great start!
“The first gatherings of the garden in May of salads, radishes, and herbs made me feel like a mother about her baby ― how could anything so beautiful be mine. And this emotion of wonder filled me for each vegetable as it was gathered every year. There is nothing that is comparable to it, as satisfactory or as thrilling, as gathering the vegetables one has grown.” ― Alice B. Toklas
Throughout the winter months I long for the warm days when I can get back into the dirt and smell the scent of plants growing. Yes, they do have a scent and all gardeners know it. It’s like the smell of the first lawn cutting, or the way the air smells after a heavy rain.. It is simply a romantic aroma!
Have you ever wondered how some of your gardening friends always have fresh produce when your garden seems to have given up the ghost? Or how farmers market vendors have fresh lettuce all season, and yours turns bitter and bolts?
What you may not know is their secret… and that’s what I’m going to share with you all of you today! It’s called succession planting, and it’s super easy to incorporate into your gardening plan.
Let’s talk about the benefits & techniques of succession planting. With this method, you can maximize your garden’s yield and enjoy a steady supply of fruits, herbs, & veggies throughout the growing season.
In today’s blog post, I’ll teach you the various benefits of succession planting, including increased productivity and reduced waste. I’ll also discuss the different techniques and strategies you can use to implement this method successfully. So, whether you are a seasoned gardener or just starting, today you will discover how to make the most of your garden with succession planting.
I certainly hope you are encouraged to garden. 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!
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You can get some really great tips in Elliot Coleman’s, Four Season Harvest! Great book! **Information adapted from Organic Gardening Magazine, “Keep It Coming” By Barbara Damrosch. Feb/Mar 2010, pg.s 42-47
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.
“We’re only truly secure when we can look out our kitchen window and see our food growing and our friends working nearby.” ― Bill Mollison
Strawberry Jam is one of the first things I preserve each year.. and all the men in my home are so happy when I do! I am making this first small batch using store bought strawberries so I can get the recipe out before the Michigan strawberry season starts for all of you.
Fresh strawberry jam is by far superior to canned, in my opinion and my boys lol! Check out my YouTube video for a step by step tutorial and then read on below for the complete list of ingredients & directions. Enjoy friends!
Do you know the difference between jam or preserves, jelly, & marmalade? Well friends, there is a difference. In the coming weeks & throughout the summer and fall, I’ll be showing you how-to make all of the above, but here is a quick differentiation~ Jam or preserves generally have chunks or bits of fruit in it, jelly is made just from the juice, marmalade generally made with citrus using the whole fruit with or without some of the rind in it.
You’ll have the opportunity to watch me prepare this recipe live at both The Farmington Farmers & Artisans Market on June 17th, 2023 at 10am. Check out my complete list of classes with more being added regularly at my Where’s Jean page.
Our Favorite Recipes
Ingredients: Yields 5 Cups Finished Jam
4 cups or 1 quart of fresh strawberries
4 cups sugar
1~ 1.75 ounce box of Sure-Jel Premium Fruit Pectin THIS RECIPE IS NOT FOR SUGAR FREE OR LOW SUGAR JAM!
3/4 cup cold water
What you will need:
1 medium saucepan
Whisk
Large bowl
1 dry ingredients measuring cup that holds at least 4 cups
1. Destem and cut off any bad spots from the strawberries, cut in half or quarter depending on how large the berries are.
2. Using a dry measuring cup to measure the exact amount of prepared fruit to 2 cups.
Reserve any extra crushed berries to the side.
3. Place in a large bowl; mash fruit to desired consistency of chunkiness.
4. Measure EXACT amount of sugar and add the crushed berries stirring until thoroughly blended to a soupy consistency;
Let set for 10 minutes stirring a couple times in between.
5. After your berry and sugar mixture has been setting for approximately 4 to 5 minutes begin the water and pectin mixture.
6. Place the ¾ cup of water into a saucepan and add pectic stirring constantly; bring to a boil on high heat stirring constantly; boil on high heat for 1 minute.
7. Add pectin mixture to the berry mixture and stir constantly for 3 to 4 minutes. The heat of the pectin and stirring motion will work at dissolving the sugar.
If there is still a bit of grainy texture to the mixture you can stir it for an additional minute or so. It will continue to dissolve as it sets up.
8. Ladle the mixture into plastic freezer containers or glass canning jars, leaving 1 inch head space from the top of the container; cover with lids.
9. Let stand at room temperature for 24 hours and then refrigerate for up to 3 weeks or freeze for up to 1 year.
You can find a similar recipe for a larger quantity in my cookbook on page 425 along with many other super yummy jam & jelly recipes!
“A person who is growing a garden, if he is growing it organically, is improving a piece of the world. He is producing something to eat, which makes him somewhat independent of the grocery business, but he is also enlarging, for himself, the meaning of food and the pleasure of eating.” ― Wendell Berry
Choose Organic Potatoes!
Growing potatoes is easier than you may think, however there are a few key tips & tricks! Recently while I was at a few local garden centers, I was kind of amazed at how much seed potatoes were and thought to myself, “I wonder if I could use organic store bought ones?” Well, sure enough you can! If you choose to do this, you’ll want to purchase organic potatoes as others have been treated with a anti-sprouting agent.
PRO TIP: Be sure to store the potatoes in your fridge until you are ready to plant them. Take them out and place them on the counter at least a week before you want to plant them in order to stimulate root growth.
PRO TIP: In optimal growing conditions, you can count on harvesting approximately 10 pounds of potatoes for every pound you plant, give or take. You will want to take this into consideration when calculating how many potatoes you want to grow.
Now check out my easy YouTube Video, Gardening 101 Tutorial on How-to Properly Plant Potatoes- HACK using store bought organic potatoes!
I certainly hope you are encouraged to garden. Even if you start with only two or three of these things, that’s a great start!
“My passion for gardening may strike some as selfish, or merely an act of resignation in the face of overwhelming problems that beset the world. It is neither. I have found that each garden is just what Voltaire proposed in Candide: a microcosm of a just and beautiful society. ” Andrew Weil
Check out my easy YouTube video tutorial on how to properly plant invasive herbs such as mint, oregano, & thyme so they don’t overtake your gardens!
Supplies you’ll need:
Large planter Ground cover or landscape fabric to line the inside of the planter 2 cups of pea gravel Enough organic potting mix to fill the planter leaving about 2 inches of head space 1 perennial herb plant of your choice such as mint, oregano, thyme, rosemary, or sage.
I certainly hope you are encouraged to garden. Even if you start with only two or three of these things, that’s a great start!
“The first gatherings of the garden in May of salads, radishes, and herbs made me feel like a mother about her baby ― how could anything so beautiful be mine. And this emotion of wonder filled me for each vegetable as it was gathered every year. There is nothing that is comparable to it, as satisfactory or as thrilling, as gathering the vegetables one has grown.” ― Alice B. Toklas
As we see an uptick in farmers market attendance and folks growing their own food, there seems to be a bit of hope. If you are like me, someone who both grows some of my own food, and shops at local markets, then you understand the gratification that comes with it. You know you are supporting local growers and family owned farms, on top of the incredible satisfactions of going out to your garden and picking a fresh tomato or cucumber.
I really became aware of the food anonymity as a market vendor. So often people would come and have no idea that potatoes grew in the ground, or peas developed in a shell. It can actually be a bit disturbing. I made it my mission to not only sell food back when I had my farm, I was committed to educating people on where their food was coming from as well.
Food is an essential part of our daily lives. It fuels our bodies, satisfies our taste buds, and brings us together in shared experiences. But how often do we consider where our food comes from, who produced it, and under what conditions it was grown or raised? Unfortunately, the answer for many of us is rarely, if ever. The food industry is one of the least transparent industries in the world, with little to no regulation or oversight in many areas. This lack of transparency has significant implications for consumers, from health concerns to ethical and environmental issues. In today’s blog, I want to explore the impact of food anonymity on consumers, that means US, & the ways in which we can break free from the chains of ignorance and demand change.
First, What is food anonymity?
Food anonymity is the term used to describe the lack of transparency in the food industry. It refers to the fact that we, the consumers, often have no idea where our food comes from, who produced it, or under what conditions it was grown or raised. The supply chain for food is long and complex, with many different players involved, from farmers and producers to distributors and retailers. This complexity makes it difficult for consumers to trace the origins of their food and to hold companies accountable for their actions.
The issue of food anonymity is compounded by the fact that many companies engage in unethical and unsustainable practices in order to cut costs and increase profits. For example, some companies use harmful pesticides and other chemicals in their farming practices, which can have negative impacts on both human health and the environment. Others engage in animal cruelty, such as keeping animals in cramped and unsanitary conditions or using inhumane slaughtering methods. These are what generally are referred to as CAFO’s or Confined Animal Feedlot Operations.
Friends, I’ve stood in some of these and believe me when I say, you would not be able to eat the meat you purchase in the grocery stores if you did. That is why I have always been so adamant about knowing your farmer & producer! These practices are often hidden from consumers, who have no way of knowing what they are supporting when they buy certain products.
The impact of food anonymity on consumers
The impact of food anonymity on consumers is significant. When we don’t know where our food comes from or how it was produced, we are at risk for a number of health concerns. For example, many companies use additives and preservatives in their products, which can be harmful to our bodies over time. Additionally, the use of pesticides and other chemicals in farming can lead to contamination of our food, putting us at risk for illness and disease.
But the impact of food anonymity goes beyond just health concerns. It also has ethical and environmental implications. When companies engage in unethical practices, such as animal cruelty or unsustainable farming practices, they are contributing to a system that is harmful to both animals and the environment. By supporting these companies, consumers are indirectly contributing to these issues as well. Furthermore, the lack of transparency in the industry means that consumers have no way of knowing whether the food they are buying was produced in an ethical and sustainable way.
The dangers of food anonymity
The dangers of food anonymity are many. As mentioned, the lack of transparency in the industry can lead to health concerns, ethical issues, and environmental problems. But there are also economic implications as well. When companies engage in unethical practices in order to cut costs and increase profits, they are often doing so at the expense of their workers, who may be underpaid or subjected to unsafe working conditions.
Additionally, the lack of transparency in the industry means that small-scale farmers and producers may be at a disadvantage, as they are unable to compete with larger companies who can produce food more cheaply and with less regard for ethical and sustainable practices.
How food labeling can help
One way to combat food anonymity is through better labeling practices. By requiring companies to provide more information about their products, consumers can make more informed choices about what they buy and eat. For example, labels can indicate whether a product was produced using organic or sustainable farming practices, or whether it contains any additives or preservatives. Labels can also provide information about the origin of the food, allowing consumers to make choices that support local farmers and producers.
While some companies may resist these labeling requirements, consumers have the power to demand change. By supporting companies that are transparent about their practices and advocating for better labeling practices, we can send a message to the food industry that we care about where our food comes from and how it was produced.
The power of consumer demand
Ultimately, the power to effect change in the food industry lies with consumers. By demanding more transparency and ethical practices from companies, we can create a more sustainable and just food system. This can take many forms, from supporting local farmers and producers to advocating for better labeling practices and more regulation in the industry.
One way to exercise our power as consumers is by choosing to buy products that align with our values. For example, we can choose to buy products that are produced using sustainable and ethical practices, or that support local farmers and producers. We can also support companies that are transparent about their practices and are committed to making positive changes in the industry.
How to empower yourself as a consumer
Empowering yourself as a consumer begins with education. By learning more about where your food comes from and how it was produced, you can make more informed choices about what you eat and buy. This can involve doing research on companies and products, reading labels, and educating yourself on ethical and sustainable farming practices.
Another way to empower yourself as a consumer is by supporting advocacy groups that are working to create positive change in the food industry. These groups can provide resources and information on issues related to food transparency and sustainability, and can help you connect with others who share your values and concerns.
Advocacy groups play an important role in the fight for food transparency and sustainability. These groups work to raise awareness about issues in the industry, advocate for better regulation and labeling practices, and support small-scale farmers and producers. By supporting these groups, consumers can help amplify their voices and make a difference in the industry.
The importance of transparency in the food industry
Transparency is key to creating a more ethical and sustainable food system. When companies are transparent about their practices and products, consumers can make more informed choices about what they buy and eat. Additionally, transparency can help to hold companies accountable for their actions and create a more level playing field for small-scale farmers and producers.
Breaking the chains of food anonymity requires action from all of us. By educating ourselves, supporting advocacy groups, and demanding change from companies and regulators, we can create a more transparent and ethical food system. This can involve making conscious choices about what we buy and eat, advocating for better labeling practices and regulation, and supporting small-scale farmers and producers. Together, we have the power to create a better future for ourselves, our communities, and our planet.
“Farmers markets are an integral part of the urban/farm linkage and have continued to rise in popularity, mostly due to the growing consumer interest in obtaining fresh products directly from the farm. Farmers markets allow consumers to have access to locally grown, farm fresh produce, enabling farmers the opportunity to develop a personal relationship with their customers, and cultivate consumer loyalty with the farmers who grow the produce.”
I certainly hope you are encouraged to garden. 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.
Tips & Tricks on what & how to grow to ensure a successful growing season! In today’s class Jean Roman will discuss the best fruits, vegetables, and herbs to grow in your home garden, and how to care for them. She’ll share her wealth of knowledge on growing and how you can have a bountiful harvest. Roman will provide information on gardening in containers, raised beds, and traditional tillable gardens. Downloadable PDF will be provided to all attendees.
“It’s difficult to think anything but pleasant thoughts while eating a homegrown tomato.” ― Lewis Grizzard
Have you ever stopped to think about where your food comes from? Most of us are aware of the term “locally sourced,” but have you heard of the concept of a foodshed?
A foodshed is the geographical area where our food is grown, processed, and distributed. Understanding your foodshed can have a significant impact on your food choices and the environment. By choosing to support local farmers and businesses, you can reduce the carbon footprint of your food and ensure that you are consuming fresh, nutritious produce. In this article, I’m going to show you all the importance of understanding your foodshed and how it can positively impact your health, the economy, and the planet. So, grab a cup of coffee and let’s dive in!
A foodshed is the geographic area where food is produced, processed, and distributed. It includes everything from the farms and ranches where food is grown, to the processing facilities where it is packaged and prepared for sale, to the stores and restaurants where it is sold and consumed. The foodshed concept takes into account the entire food system, from farm to table, and recognizes the importance of local food production.
The size of a foodshed can vary, depending on the region and the type of food produced. For example, a foodshed for tomatoes in Florida may be smaller than a foodshed for wheat in the Midwest. However, the idea is the same – to support local food systems and reduce the amount of energy required to transport food long distances.
In addition to reducing the carbon footprint of our food, supporting local foodsheds can also provide economic benefits to farmers and local businesses. By buying locally, consumers can keep their dollars within their community, supporting small-scale farmers and businesses.
The Importance of Foodshed
Understanding the concept of a foodshed is important because it allows us to better understand the impact of our food choices on the environment and the economy. When we buy food that has been transported long distances, we contribute to greenhouse gas emissions and other environmental impacts associated with transportation. By supporting local food systems, we can reduce these impacts and support sustainable agriculture.
In addition to environmental benefits, supporting local food systems can also have economic benefits. By buying locally, consumers can support small-scale farmers and businesses, helping to keep money within the community. This can lead to a more resilient local economy and a stronger sense of community.
Finally, supporting local food systems can also have health benefits. Local food is often fresher and more nutritious than food that has been transported long distances. This is because local food is typically harvested at the peak of ripeness and consumed shortly thereafter. In contrast, food that has been transported long distances may be harvested before it is ripe and then artificially ripened during transportation.
How Foodshed Impacts Your Food Choices
Understanding your foodshed can impact your food choices in several ways. First, it can help you make more informed decisions about the food you buy. By understanding where your food comes from, you can choose to buy food that is produced locally and supports sustainable agriculture. This can help reduce your carbon footprint and support local farmers and businesses.
Second, understanding your foodshed can also help you make healthier food choices. Local food is often fresher and more nutritious than food that has been transported long distances. By choosing to buy local food, you can ensure that you are consuming fresh, nutritious produce that is free from harmful chemicals and preservatives.
Finally, understanding your foodshed can also help you save money. By buying food that is produced locally, you can often save money on transportation costs that are passed on to consumers. Additionally, local food can be less expensive because it doesn’t have to travel long distances to reach consumers.
Sustainable Agriculture and Foodshed
Sustainable agriculture is an important component of the foodshed concept. Sustainable agriculture is a method of food production that seeks to minimize the environmental impact of farming while also promoting economic and social sustainability. Sustainable agriculture practices include crop rotation, conservation tillage, and the use of natural fertilizers and pesticides.
By supporting sustainable agriculture, consumers can help reduce the environmental impact of farming and support local farmers and businesses. Additionally, by choosing to buy food that is produced sustainably, consumers can help promote sustainable agriculture practices and encourage more farmers to adopt these methods.
How to Support Your Local Foodshed
There are several ways to support your local foodshed. First, you can seek out local farmers’ markets and buy fresh, locally produced food. You can also look for restaurants that source their ingredients locally and support local farms.
Another way to support your local foodshed is to join a CSA program. By buying a share of a local farm’s harvest, you can support sustainable agriculture and receive fresh, seasonal produce.
Finally, you can grow your own food. Even if you don’t have space for a garden, you can grow herbs and vegetables in pots on your balcony or windowsill. By growing your own food, you can reduce your carbon footprint and ensure that you are consuming fresh, nutritious produce.
Foodshed vs. Food Miles
Foodshed and food miles are two related, but distinct, concepts. Food miles refer to the distance that food travels from the farm to the consumer. The concept of food miles has been used to raise awareness about the environmental impacts of transporting food long distances.
While food miles are an important consideration, they are not the only factor to consider when it comes to sustainable agriculture. The foodshed concept takes a more holistic approach, considering the entire food system, from farm to table. By supporting local food systems, we can reduce the carbon footprint of our food and support sustainable agriculture.
Examples of Successful Foodshed Initiatives
There are many successful foodshed initiatives around the world. One example is the “Farm to School” program, which connects local farmers with schools to provide fresh, healthy food to students. This program helps support local farmers and promotes healthy eating habits among students.
Another example is the “Community Supported Agriculture” (CSA) model, which allows consumers to buy shares of a local farm’s harvest. This model helps support local farmers and provides consumers with fresh, seasonal produce.
Challenges to a Strong Foodshed and How to Overcome Them
There are several challenges to building a strong foodshed. One challenge is the dominance of large-scale agriculture and the concentration of food processing and distribution in the hands of a few large corporations. This can make it difficult for small-scale farmers and businesses to compete.
Another challenge is consumer demand for convenience and low prices. Many consumers prioritize convenience and low prices over supporting local farmers and sustainable agriculture practices. This can make it difficult for local farmers and businesses to compete in the marketplace.
To overcome these challenges, it is important to raise awareness about the benefits of supporting local food systems and sustainable agriculture. This can be done through education campaigns, community outreach, and policy initiatives that support local farmers and businesses.
Understanding the concept of a foodshed is important for anyone interested in sustainable agriculture and healthy eating. By supporting local food systems, consumers can reduce their carbon footprint, support local farmers and businesses, and promote sustainable agriculture practices. So, the next time you sit down to enjoy a meal, take a moment to think about where your food comes from and how you can support your local foodshed.
“You know, when you get your first asparagus, or your first acorn squash, or your first really good tomato of the season, those are the moments that define the cook’s year. I get more excited by that than anything else.” ― Mario Batali
I am getting so itchy to get out and plant stuff!!! If you’ve been following me on my Facebook & Instagram, then you’ve seen my new greenhouse go up & the raised bed gardening coming to fruition. We’ve been at a stand still the last few days with the weather… yep, I’m in Michigan. We need a bit more pea stone for the raised bed garden, and more compostable materials for the beds themselves…. Then the dirt and I can plant.
Next year at this time, I will already have lettuce and other greens in the beds, but I must be patient this year. As the temperatures start to rise and the sun shines a little brighter, May is the perfect time to start planting our vegetable and herb gardens.
Many of you ask me what we can start planting, so last month I threw together a blog post, and I thought I should do the same for May. After all, now is the time we can really start thinking about the garden and the beautiful bounties she will hold this year.
Benefits of Growing Your Own Vegetables and Herbs
There are many benefits to growing your own vegetables and herbs. For one, you can ensure that the produce you are consuming is fresh and free from harmful pesticides. Additionally, gardening can be a rewarding and stress-relieving hobby. Not to mention, it can save you money in the long run. By growing your own vegetables and herbs, you can reduce your grocery bill and enjoy the satisfaction of knowing that your food was grown with your own two hands.
Best Vegetables to Grow in May
MId to late May is the perfect time to plant a variety of vegetables in Zone 4 & 5. Some of the best vegetables to grow in May include tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, zucchini, and green beans. These plants thrive in warm weather & will grow beautifully once the evenings stay above 50 degrees. It is essential for them to have warm soil and night temps for them to mature and develop.
Tomatoes are classic vegetables & super easy to grow & can be used in a variety of dishes. Whether you prefer cherry tomatoes or beefsteaks, May is the ideal time to get these plants in the ground.
Peppers are another popular vegetable that can add some spice to your garden. Bell peppers, jalapenos, and habaneros are all great options for May planting. Cucumbers and zucchini are also easy to grow and can be used in salads, stir-fries, or even pickling.
Carrots & green beans are other versatile vegetable crops that can be served as a side dish or used in casseroles and soups.
Here are a Few Planting Tips for May Gardening
When planting your vegetables in May, it’s important to choose a spot that receives plenty of sunlight. Most vegetables require at least six hours of sunlight per day to thrive. Additionally, make sure the soil is well-draining and has plenty of organic matter. This will ensure that your plants have the nutrients they need to grow strong and healthy.
When planting your seeds or seedlings, as I always say, be sure to follow the instructions on the packet or label. Some plants may require a certain depth or spacing between each plant. If the information isn’t detailed enough, simply Google the plant and all those details will pop up! Water your plants regularly, especially during dry spells. Mulching around your plants can help retain moisture in the soil and prevent weeds from growing.
Top Herbs to Grow in May
Herbs are a great addition to any garden, and May is the perfect time to plant them. Some of the top herbs to grow in Zones 4 & 5 during May include basil, cilantro, chives, parsley, and thyme. These herbs are easy to grow and can be used in a variety of dishes.
Basil is a fragrant herb that is commonly used in Italian and Mediterranean cuisine. It can be used in sauces, salads, and even on pizza. Cilantro is another herb that is commonly used in Mexican and Asian cuisine. It can be used in salsas, curries, and stir-fries. Chives and parsley are versatile herbs that can be used in a variety of dishes, while thyme is a great herb for seasoning meats and vegetables. CLICK HERE for my delicious Pesto Recipe!
Maintaining Your May Garden – Watering, Fertilizing, and Pest Control
Maintaining your garden is crucial for a successful harvest. Water your plants regularly, especially during dry spells. Most vegetables require about an inch of water per week. Fertilize your plants every few weeks to ensure they have the nutrients they need to grow.
Pest control is also important for maintaining a healthy garden. Keep an eye out for common pests such as aphids, caterpillars, and slugs. You can use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control these pests. Additionally, companion planting can help deter pests naturally. For example, planting marigolds next to your vegetables can help repel aphids and other pests.
Harvesting Your May Garden
As your plants start to mature, it’s important to harvest them at the right time. Generally, vegetables should be harvested when they are ripe and before they become overripe or start to rot. Herbs can be harvested throughout the growing season as needed.
When harvesting your vegetables, use a sharp pair of scissors or pruning shears to cut the stem cleanly. Avoid pulling the vegetables off the plant, as this can damage the plant and reduce future yields. Herbs can be harvested by snipping off the leaves or stems as needed.
Gardening in Zones 4 & 5 in the month of May can be a fun and rewarding experience. By following these simple tips & tricks, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of fresh vegetables and herbs. Whether you’re a novice or beginner gardener, there’s no better time to start planting than now. So grab your gardening tools and get ready to dig in the dirt!
Looking to the future, consider trying out new vegetables and herbs in your garden. There are countless varieties to choose from, each with their own unique flavor and characteristics. Don’t be afraid to experiment and try new things. Who knows, you may discover a new favorite vegetable or herb that you never knew existed!
I certainly hope you are encouraged to garden. 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.
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