Spring Veggies

The time is just flying by.   I was so busy during the month of April.  I went on a much needed vacation to Tybee Island, Georgia.   We really had a peaceful vacation.  Spent some time fishing, reading, walking on the beach, and sampling some really tasty food.  Then upon my return home I was sick for two weeks.   Finally, I was in Columbus for almost a week for class.   All the while activity was happening in my garden.   Thank goodness a friend was watching over my precious seedlings as they matured or I would not be able to report on the growth of my seedlings.   They would have withered away.  Anyway, enough with my ramblings.

Our raised beds were prepped in very early spring with a top dressing of compost and 8-3-3 organic fertilizer purchased from Marvin's Organic Gardens.    If you live anywhere in Ohio, I highly recommend a visit.   Check out his website at: http://www.marvinsorganicgardens.com.  You will not be disappointed.  Marvin is a true inspiration.     Marvin is kind and generous with his knowledge.  He is a true mentor to anyone interested in organic gardening.    I had the pleasure of meeting him while taking gardening classes through Five Rivers Metro Parks.   I can't say enough about the quality of the staff and the educational classes offered through Five Rivers Metro Parks.  They have a wealth of programs available year round.  Visit their website at:  http://www.metroparks.org.  They are also always looking for volunteers.  Don't miss out on this opportunity.  You will be rewarded many times over.

On March 28, 2010 I planted my little cabbage and broccoli seedlings.  I proceeded to protect them with some nifty little garden cloches I picked up from North Dayton Garden Center.  They were reasonably priced at $5.95 and worth every penny.  I love the convenience, construction, and ease of set up of these little cloches.   They provide insulation and protection from the elements of the weather.  Yet they are easily opened during perfect weather conditions.   The dimensions are: length 23", width 16", height 14".  They capture sunlight from any angle, divert rain and condensation into surrounding ground, and provide a warm and drought free environment.  Best of all they fold flat for storage.

Next, I was fortunate enough to find some light weight fencing someone was throwing out in their trash and built a trellis for peas.   I used the fencing and tobacco stakes I picked up at an auction in the fall to construct the trellis the length of my raised bed.  Next, I planted peas and lettuce.  I am happy to report approximately 30 days later everything is thriving.   I will be able to make a lovely salad with the lettuce for Sunday potluck.

Yesterday I planted tomatoes, peppers, and onions.  I moved the garden cloches from the broccoli and cabbage to the tomatoes and peppers.  It is still a little early for tomatoes and peppers, but I wanted to experiment with the cloches.  Stay tuned for future updates on the progress.

It looks like I will have my first apples this year.  Upon inspection of the apple tree, I noticed the budding of apples.  I am so excited.  This is the third season for my little tree.  I can't wait to make an apple pie.

Next, I headed over to check out the grapevine and blueberry bushes.  They are in their second year and progressing nicely.   Blueberries are all ready forming and will be ready before you know it.

I hope you enjoyed sharing my morning walk between the raindrops to capture and report on the progress of my organic garden and edible landscape.   I will be busy in the coming weeks building two more raised beds and planting the rest of my seedlings, seeds, and trees.   I look forward to hearing about your progress in your garden.  What is in store for you during the coming weeks?

City Girl