In the world of farming, every week something new comes into being or fruition. New crops appearing keeps things exciting in spite of the mundane tasks required in farming. Enjoy.
I have waited months for these marigolds to bloom. Some flowers, like marigolds, begin blooming only under the shorter daylight time after the summer solstice.
Our first Oka Melon of the season. Oka melon is a cross-breed originating in nearby Montreal, between a green local melon and the banana. In Vermont we must “baby” melon plants for them to produce. I put my plants on black plastic and cover them on cool nights. Someone recently told me that some farmers believe it is only possible to grow melons during times when the evening temps stay about 55 degrees Fahrenheit. Some summers, evenings like that are few in Vermont!
Northern Sea Oats are a unique grass with flat, green seed heads. They turn rusty, tan, brown or bronze and last all winter. Sea Oats are great for dried arrangements. I adore this plant so much I planted 30 additional plugs last week.
Our first “Hooligan” Pumpkin of the season. The gravelly soil at Painted Tulip makes pumpkin-growing a challenge. Last week after noticing some very sad-looking plants, I fed them a bat guano tea. Look at my reward!
The Burgundy Lace hydrangea are in full bloom. I enjoy the open, lacy form of this hydrangea as opposed to the more traditionally seen mop head. As nights grow cooler, these flowers will turn from pink to burgundy.
See you soon with more late summer bloom updates!
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