June 8, 2009
Soon to be Pumpkins

The other day, I found time to work in my vegetable garden, and I had so much fun! The additional space in the garden is going fast. A friend of mine fixed our 1950’s tiller, and I am forever thankful. Having a tiller makes the work so much easier. So easy, I’m thinking about expanding…again!

My friends have a sweet corn farm, so I don’t really need to plant corn. However, I just wanted to experience growing sweet corn, so I planted two varieties. Now, I can tell you I don’t always follow the package directions, but on the corn I followed them almost to the letter! Corn seems like it is the hardest crop to grow and has the most challenges, so I wanted to give my corn the best. Pending insects, rust and raccoons, by mid-August through September, I should have plenty of sweet corn to share with family and the freezer. My pumpkin patch is also taking shape with a couple kinds of pumpkins, including the big mammoth types and some smaller ones. Last fall, I knew where I wanted the patch, so when it came time to “compost” the pumpkins, I threw them in the soon to be pumpkin patch. In the last week, those pumpkins have come alive again through their seeds. I am anxious to see how they turn out and how much room they will take in the garden.

Now, my family is all into gardening, and we all like to share. So it was exciting to plant some of their cabbage, broccoli and cauliflower plants in the garden. They are all doing great, and I have plenty to share with Sheila. She’s a cabbage nut! Rain has been plentiful, and I’m thankful I don’t have to water everything today. Though this morning, I practically needed a canoe to check my rain gauge. According to the new gauge, my garden received 3 1/4".

I am excited to report that my flower pots are all planted and doing great, too. My favorite one consists of eucalyptus, Diamond Frost, a pink geranium and a couple purple verbenas. I’m anxious to see how it progresses throughout the summer.

Speaking of summer, the other day I was able to share the first harvest of radishes and lettuce with family. Sharing gives me warm fuzzies inside! I hope all of you can also share your harvest with others. Don’t forget, we all have something to share, whether it is bounty from the garden or our time and talents with others.

Let me know if you have any questions or comments on your garden.
I can be reached at wajasper@sargentsgardens.com

Happy Gardening!
Wendy Jasper
MNLA Certified Professional

Past Journal Entries