October 27, 2008

Over the weekend, I thought heavily about cutting back hosta and various perennials, however, the howling wind and the “blizzard” kept me from wanting to think about anything but staying inside and having a cup of tea and reading a book. My collection of gardening books has grown significantly over the years. Every winter, many evenings pass by reading about roses and herbs along with recipes with herbs and tomatoes in their ingredient list. My Tomato Festival Cookbook is a staple book that I read in the summer to decide what to do with the plentiful harvest of vegetables. It has also encouraged me to explore different heirloom tomatoes to grow in my garden. Each summer, I incorporate new varieties into the garden, but I do like to plant several hybrids for canning. In my garden, they produce a greater quantity and they are easier to can. Just this morning, I opened a jar of tomatoes to make chili for dinner. All the work of gardening and canning is well worth it, when I open up something I’ve canned. It’s a great feeling of pride and accomplishment. It’s only lunchtime, and I am anxious to head home after work for dinner. Chili and cornbread, a great way to end a chili day outside!

Don’t forget, now is a great time to clean up and sharpen your garden tools. Here is a previous blog on how to do those activities.

Wendy Jasper
MNLA Certified Professional

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