The weather has turned crisp, the leaves have begun their annual metamorphosis into fiery colors of red and orange, and your neighbor, Del, has the most stunning patch of pumpkins you’ve ever seen, yet again. Your kids envy this section of his garden, and eagerly wait for his go-ahead to select the year’s jack-o-lanterns. Even the fall light seems to favor his property better, … [Read more...] about Pumpkin Planning
Fruit
Fabulous Fig Facts
Figs. While commonly associated with decadent Roman living and the diets of the well-to-do, the ancient fig is actually far less delicate, and far easier to grow than what you’ve probably heard. Originating somewhere in Mesopotamia, the fig has been a delicacy for millennia, serving both as a standalone treat, and a natural sweetener. In fact, some interpretations of the Bible … [Read more...] about Fabulous Fig Facts
Pawpaw Picking
Love tropical fruits, but live pretty far outside the tropical zone? Keep an eye out for the good old “Appalachian Banana.” Indigenous to the temperate regions of North America, the pawpaw gained a quite foothold thanks to colonial fans of the fruits. Two such men were George Washington and Thomas Jefferson, who cultivated pawpaws throughout Virginia; there, you can still find … [Read more...] about Pawpaw Picking
Raised Garden Beds
Convinced you don’t have a green thumb? Tired of having to choose between constant weeding or seeing your plants choked out? Raised garden beds may be the key to your problems, and they’re rather easy to craft. Read on for the why and how of this time- and back-saving garden addition. Benefits While obviously too small for large-plot crops, raised garden beds are perfect … [Read more...] about Raised Garden Beds