Swan Gardens is Lifting Off!
Water Towers and Covers are Working
The Food Bank Growers'
Swan Farms garden in Port Hadlock is bursting with the vibrancy that only comes from a thriving, organic operation. Approaching the garden this week (pictured above) the first thing that strikes a visitor is flowers. But flowers are important to a garden, both for the good vibrations they bring to gardeners and for the benefit of pollinators. More pollinators = more veggies!
Ever wonder about floating row covers, and why bother? (pictured above) They can keep unwanted insects at bay while providing a warmer, wind-free microclimate. These squash are already beginning to produce during the first week of June. With plants like squash, it's vital that the covers come off when the bloom comes on, because that lets pollinators do their thing.
See that festive red plastic surrounding the cages of this batch of tomatillos? (pictured above) The plastic functions as a tiny greenhouse for each plant. These plants are native to Mexico, and they like heat! The fruits are the size of small plums, surrounded by a papery husk. The bright, tart flavor of the fruits is almost citrusy. Besides becoming the main ingredient in salsas, tomatillos deserve more attention in our kitchens, and they are packed with nutrition.
We don't grow all vegetables for their fruits (pictured above), but also their leaves and roots. This cabbage is approaching harvest time. Look at those leaves! Any vegetables in the vast cabbage family are a target for the white butterflies that lay their eggs on them. As the eggs hatch, the result is a Swiss cheese network of holes that their caterpillars munch through the leaves. But not this one. A simple drape of lightweight netting keeps them at bay, and gives the harvest great curb appeal.
There is a lot of innovation going on in all the Food Bank Growers' gardens. To learn more, become part of the solution! Volunteer!
Submitted by Mark Paxton
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