Garden – Page 13 – Ephemerality

Of course, I’d rather eat a pawpaw than a squash, too. Squash are really only good as butter sponges or for decoration.

But they’re fun to grow, and despite their questionable culinary value, a source of home-grown nutrition a la Victory Garden!

Victory Garden Indeed

Yet despite my plans, many of the seeds I selected didn’t germinate, and those that did weren’t what I expected. Maybe some things got mixed up in the seed vault. I also scattered compost, which apparently contained a number of squash seeds from the year prior, which I let grow to fill in the garden space. Consequently, I have some interesting varieties.

Ronde De Nice and pattypans were planned. Those strange white pumpkins were not.

–Simon

July 21, 2020May 30, 2023

The White Man’s Vegetable

Ponder this a moment. What plant has fed the white man for centuries–post American exploration? From its humble roots (hint hint) as peasant sustenance to modern day caloric side dish filler? A ubiquitous medium which assimilates the flavors of anything it touches, from spice mixes to rendered oils? From elegant salads to white trash junk food?

No, chicken isn’t a vegetable.

Mmmm, there we go.

We planted a couple rows of these, and netted 10 pounds for harvest. So approximately 1 pound of potatoes per linear garden space. Not bad. I’m hoping to get a second crop now, but the weather isn’t cooperating. On the other hand, the cost of using old potatoes that weren’t eaten in time is essentially zero, so no great risk compared to the potential gain.

And by “gain”, I mean to my waistline.

The perfect vegetable.

–Simon

July 8, 2020May 31, 2023

Lycopersicum Prime

In gardening tradition, the first tomato must be presented. It’s a beefsteak.

–Simon

July 6, 2020May 31, 2023

Carrots

Nothing major here, just a nice bunch of homegrown carrots. It warrants a post.

–Simon

April 27, 2020June 1, 2023

Garbage Pile

I have a backlog of stuff that I’ve failed to post due to life’s distractions. So here’s a summary of what I’ve been up to:

1. Quarantine Breakfast

I’ve begun a Sunday ritual where I make a more time-consuming brunch. This family is not one to rise early of our own accord, so weekday breakfasts are often skipped or consist of premade options. And since Saturdays are packed with accomplishing chores, there should be at least a few relaxing hours once a week.

2. Home School

The kid’s had to adapt to completing her schoolwork remotely. Her focus, however, is still that of an 8-year old’s. I’ve taken to creating a temporary workstation for her in the basement so I can keep an eye on her, but the visual scene is rather spartan and sad. Do what works I suppose.

3. Garden Trellis

Each year I make a stronger tomato trellis, and each year it collapses by the end of the season. This year I decided to build an ultimate trellis, of treated lumber, 3 inch deck screws, and 2-foot deep settings. It won’t fall down this year, dammit!