01 July 2009

Canada Day Catch-up

I didn't mean to take a break from posting. I intended to do some warm-ups for the requisite weekly posting that accompanies Secret Pal 14 which starts today. The Ravelry group is getting anxious for our spoilee assignments to be sent out. This is my first SP swap and I'm a little nervous. All my previous swap experiences have been great (I've been lucky, it seems), but it does feel a little like the first day at a new school.

The biggest news around here is the growth of my "garden." Last week's 90+ temperatures spurred the tomatoes and sweet basil to stretch tall. I'm hoping the cool weather this week doesn't upset them too much. I cut a big chunk of the greek basil plant out for my cooking club dish last weekend and I've used a bit of the oregano, thyme and dill in the last few weeks, but it isn't really harvest time yet. Here are some photos so you can see my thumbs are staying green, so far.

sooooo biiiiig!

The herbs are doing fine; the marigolds seem to be working to keep the rabbits away. I added a small rosemary plant. I think the dill is going to bolt soon. Turns out I don't use dill all that much. I'm hoping I can cut it and dry it for MoD to use in her pickles later this summer....

The tumbler cherry tomato and greek basil are tight in their little pot, but they seem happy so I don't want to disturb them.

green Tumblers

The sweet basil is finally taking off. Perhaps it made peace with the speed grower black plum tomato. Their container is tall enough that I don't think they need the disco mix marigold's protection, but I like the bit of color. I've come a long way in my attitude toward marigolds.

wee black plums


bigger black plums - can't wait to try these...

I've started collecting rain water, too. It's not the most efficient system - there are limits to what I can modify around here, but it gets me some water for the plants that didn't run through the treatment facilities. Even though I let my tap water sit overnight to release the chlorine, I think the garden prefers untreated rain when it can get it.

3 comments:

Scott K. Johnson said...

Hey! Speaking of rainwater, I am curious about building a rain barrel, complete with a spigot, etc. But - here's the thing. I'm not in a position where I could really use something like that where I am currently. There's also the PITA factor of having to take it in during the cold months...

Anyway, what I'm getting at is if you are interested I can help YOU build a rain barrel! w00t! Lemme know.

And when will you be posting the ride-for-ride training schedule for me and my attempt at 30 miles with you all next year? :-)

angelika said...

Love all your plants! I know what joy it means to step out and get some flavors for your food right from the own garden/terrace!! Keep up your good work, and what was it you served at the cooking club party? Lots of summery love, angelika (and gino)

Em said...

Looking good!

Once again I'm failing miserably at growing food but this year I can blame it on the rain :