Cucurbita Jungle

I persuaded my husband to drag out the old dog kennel. (The dog kennel that the dog CLIMBED out of every time!!) I wanted to try my hand at vertical growing. I planted cucumbers, melons, and various winter squash around the inside. I got a pretty late start, but I do have quite a few "babies" which I hope will be ready before frost.

I planted both Musquee de Provence and Jarrahdale pumpkins. I think they both have these silver-veined leaves.

I was very surprised to see this fuzzy little watermelon. It is so cute!

This is Musquee de Provence. I am not quite sure why she is growing with her blossom end up, but she looks very regal!

October Garden

Late September and October is a good time in my garden. The cooler temperatures and autumnal rains bring about a late flush in the roses. I think this is my favorite time in the garden. I am able to (comfortably) enjoy the rewards for work done in the spring and early summer as well as enjoy the beauty in spite of my summer neglect!

Kaleyard

Yesterday, we visited a friend who is passionate about organic gardening. Her vegetable garden is truly inspiring. The best thing about the garden is the small children wandering down the flagstone path (with creeping blue star growing between the stones), picking tomatoes , carrots, and peas and popping them in their mouths like Peter Rabbit and Benjamin Bunny!

This is the way to raise children to love vegetables. When the peas are sweet and the tomatoes are warm from the sun, who can resist? Nutmeg and I discovered carrot tops- they are delicious and, suprisingly, taste like the carrots themselves!
The twisted poles in the raised beds came from Gardeners Supply Company.
I have been inspired to plant a winter garden myself. This afternoon I planted kale and several lettuce varieties. I cannot wait to top potato soup with my own, fresh kale!