It’s mid-June and vegetable growers across the country are gearing up. Will you beat your personal best for the date you pick your first tomato of the season? Will the zucchini get away from you — yet again? Or are you firmly in Camp Floral, and buy your seasonal produce at local markets and farm stands? Interest in vegetable gardening surged with so many more people at home … [Read more...] about Whys and hows of tomato pruning
tomatoes
18 vegetables and how to store them
Freezing, drying and canning are options for long-term storage of freshly harvested vegetables, but what are the best ways to store produce for a few days or weeks? The Ecology Center at Berkeley Farmers’ Markets in California offers these environmentally responsible (no plastic wraps or disposable containers) suggestions. Beans, shelling Open container in fridge. Beets … [Read more...] about 18 vegetables and how to store them
Vertical vegetables save space
I’m always searching for vegetable crops that go above and beyond normal expectations. I want plants that will produce a generous harvest, yet not take up too much precious garden space. I also want them to be disease and insect resistant, as well as relatively low maintenance. These might seem like unreasonable demands, but my vertical vegetable crops deliver all of this and … [Read more...] about Vertical vegetables save space
Harvest times for vegetables
August is prime time for harvesting homegrown vegetables. Of course, timing depends on the variety, when it was planted, weather conditions and other factors, but generally vegetable gardeners are reaping the benefits of their good planning and ongoing care at this time of year. The Home Garden Seed Association offers these tips on how to know when to harvest vegetables at the … [Read more...] about Harvest times for vegetables
How to plan a vegetable garden
Everything you need to know about starting a new vegetable garden Who doesn’t enjoy just-picked, homegrown vegetables? Growing a variety of edibles is one of the many joys of gardening, and a good way to make sure your family is getting plenty of fresh produce on their plates. If you’re new to gardening or new to veggie growing, this Garden Know How will help you plan and … [Read more...] about How to plan a vegetable garden