Friday, September 24, 2010

Chard, Beets, Basil, and Garlic

It's been over 2 weeks since my last post, and note the progress in the garden.

Basil (top left), Swiss chard (center), and beets (bottom).
The swiss chard has been growing like a weed, I still have loads of basil, and the beets are starting to thrive.  Carrots are growing well too, but have been more problematic because apparently they are so darn tasty for a variety of worms.  I think they are from butterflies and moths.  Means I have to keep an eye open for those buggers.  I pick 'em and squash 'em when I can find 'em.

It's been very hot here lately (80s and 90s during the day) so I've added a thick layer of straw mulch to the beds.  I think it's helped to keep the soil cool and retain moisture that otherwise would evaporate.  Straw mulch is the best mulch because it's very effective and very affordable.

My garlic also just arrived in the mail!  Nice big bulbs of Inchellium Red, a softneck variety that I've grown with good results for the past 2 years.

Inchellium Red garlic bulbs, before being broken into individual cloves for planting.

I ordered from Southern Exposure Seed Exchange, a great outfit from Mineral, VA.  They grow and sell things well-suited to the Mid-Atlantic.  Hope to plant the individual cloves in October.

2 comments:

Sybil said...

The "yarden" looks fantastic! Hope everything came through the rains in good shape. You're going to be an inspiration to all the folks who say, "well, I can't do that, I don't have enough land". Can't wait to see how it all continues to develop! - Sybil

.09 Acres said...

Sybil,
Thanks for the message, you are the first person to leave a comment on this blog -- ever! It is indeed a tiny yard, but I think part of the fun is figuring ways to maximize the productivity of the space but keeping in mind certain aesthetic values. Hopefully some neighbors will take notice and decide to do the same thing. Fruit, veggies, and herbs on your doorstep is great thing.
Dave