We share many interests. We are busy planting vegetable starts. Currently we have leeks, pak choi, gourmet lettuces, mesclun, edible pod peas, and more in addition to many types of herbs, strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, currants, grapes. We also have delphinium and hollyhocks germinating. Gardening and eating fresh is a way of life for us-one we would like to pass on.
Historically one to three of us have participated in a plant swap. This year it is early May. This allows us to plant more diversely and minimize cost.
For gardeners forbidden fruit is tantamount to that which is just out of their reach.
One of today's projects is propagating lemon grass. Who can resist Asian food? Lemon grass plants from a nursery are costly, however lemon grass cuttings put on shoots in 1-2 weeks and can be planted outdoors in 3-4 weeks. A single stalk makes a good container planting, or plant 3 or more stalks in the garden. Lemon Grass does not tolerate cold temperatures below 45 degrees, so when we transplant it, we will need to provide protection from the cold. Lemon Grass multiplies rapidly, but is not invasive. It can be purchased inexpensively at an Asian grocery store. We paid $1. for bunches of four to five stalks. To use lemon grass cut back the outer green leaves. Crush the bulb and a most wonderful aroma fills the air. This is the valuable part of the plant.
Forbidden fruit has another meaning. Lack of access. Obesity, nutrition education, food security, buying fresh, locally sustainable food, and helping the poor become more self sufficient are important topics. As our company grows we hope to do our part by passing on over 200 years of combined gardening experience. In the interim we continue to network with others. Today this writer donated fresh parsley, and a large volume of culinary sage and rosemary to Meals on Wheels, a program that helps senior citizens with affordable access to nutritious meals, and decrease social isolation.
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