Edibles

The asparagus bed got off to a rocky start this year. Winter 2009 set in early and hard before I got it weeded, fertilized or mulched. Weather stayed cold and wet in the spring until it started sending up spears. I did finally get it cleaned up and it got down to business producing. I love having lots of asparagus to eat and to share. I even got my neighbors, self-described picky eaters to try it. Bob brings me bags of cucumbers and tomatoes all summer so I was glad to reciprocate.

From TTH20100531

The herb bed became infested with wire grass. I spent a day digging it out along with a large dead rosemary bush. That gave me a clear space for the basil and other annuals in a good sunny spot.

From TTH20100531

Moving the basil gave me a little more room for greens. I always say I'm not going to bother with vegetables and then always decide to plant a few. This year it is the Mystery Vegetable at the back. It's a surprise for a friend who remembers it as a childhood treat. It will be harvested in the fall and then I can tell you what it is.

In front of that is some chard, then parsley. Buttercrunch lettuce is to the right. It has been struggling in a heat wave. I hope some will head up before it bolts.

In the fall I will plant some weird kale called variously Lacinato, Tuscan or Dinosaur kale. It has very dark leathery leaves, not curly edged like most kale. It makes a wonderful tangy salad. The kale is stemmed, sliced very finely, dressed with olive oil and lemon juice and then tossed with mix-ins. This week that is radishes, young local garlic and scallions. I could eat a bucket.

From TTH20100531