Well, today was a busy one. It's early in the planting season. Heck, this time last year, I had just planted some Tomatoes in the Greenhouse. This year, I planted on 2/14/15, and the Tomatoes are in their 2nd up-potting.
Seed Viability was an issue, I think next year I will need to splurge on seed, though I am planting enough that I should be able to save some seed, it may not be enough. Most of my seed is a few years old, and they say it will last 3 years some of mine is past that date.
The greenhouse has Tomatoes, Broccoli, Cauliflower, and Peppers. All doing well. Today was all about planting seeds in the ground. I figure, if the weeds are growing, flowering and seeding already, my cool season crops can do so as well.
Today I put in Carrots, Kale, Spinach, Swiss Chard, Arugula, Green Beans, Dry shelling beans, and Peas. I also started Hama Melons, Acorn Squash, more Broccoli (a family favorite) and Basil in the greenhouse.
I had always heard that a farmer is most concerned about the weather....now I get it. If I plant right, I may get two cool seasons in, sandwiching around the hot season.
The cool part of this year, is on my walks around my small city, I am seeing many more homes, ripping up lawns, and putting in veggie beds! I have also seen and increase in backyard chickens! Viva La Revolution!
I know what I'm doing is right, when my wife told me tonight that she has been spoiled. You see, she grew up eating food that had processed or powdered chicken base for seasoning. She had to buy it when we saw it. Now she can't eat it, she says it's too salty. Well the first ingredient is Salt. She much prefers food made with homemade chicken stock.
Sure that's really a DUH statement, but I just saw an ad on TV for Monsanto, and what I saw was sheer propaganda. I hate getting political, but after all they have done, all the lies, it's sicking.
Well enough of that. I will keep planting, weeding, watering, harvesting, cooking, canning, and freezing my harvest. Monsanto got one part right, food is love, and because I love my family, I will continue to grow food. Not organic (which is a label; shouldn't non-organic food have to be label GMO, oh wait, Monsanto is throwing money against such laws that would make that so.) No, my Grandmother grew food. I will grow food.
Today wasn't the nicest of days, yesterday was gorgeous, today cold (a storm front is moving in) but I was outside, playing in the dirt. And the best part; I had this kid in a candy store grin on my face the whole time.
So if you're on the fence about gardening, start small. Buy a tomato seedling, and plant it. Care for it, and this July, when the tomatoes are bursting and beautiful, go out just after the dew has settled, and eat one. I swear, you will never go back to store bought again.
Just sayin'
Go out and play in the dirt all!
Adam
