Greetings from the Garden

Summer in the garden is so amazing.  Whenever I get to pick fresh basil, a plump tomato, or some bunching onions, I am reminded how lucky we are to have flower and vegetable gardens.  Even with our short season, there is SO much we can grow.  I have to admit, that it took me some years to overcome my abundance of weeds, but dedication to mulching has rewarded me with so much less this year. I am motivated to add new beds to my garden and continue my path to preserving and canning my harvest.  Some of the most fun is getting to talk with you all about your gardens..the triumphs and defeats.  If you have questions or concerns, I urge you to drop by and tell us your story.  We just may have the answers you need!

I am on the committee and so excited about the Lassen Land & Trails Trust Annual Farm to Table Dinner on Saturday, August 17th.  Speaking of fresh veggies, our menu is packed with incredible recipes!  If you love good food, incredible wine, and the outdoors, you must attend!  Each year we have been fortunate enough to have amazing hosts offer their ranches, farms, and this year, summer camp for the event.  Our host is the Mountain Meadow Ranch and we are delighted to enjoy the evening with the Ellena families.  Be sure to check out the menu below and please help me spread the word.  Tickets are at the front counter of the shop, Margies Book Nook, the Golden Poppy, and the LLTT Depot.  You can also buy them online at lassenlandandtrailstrust.org.  I hope you'll join us for this magical evening for an amazing cause.  The Land Trust proceeds benefit local trail projects & conservation of working farms, ranches and forests!

See you in the Garden,

Melissa

• Mulch 2-3" of organic matter, bark, compost or chips to hold ground moisture AND eliminate weeds from growing in gardens and beds. My favorite is G&B Soil Building Conditioner---it works!
• Cut back your water for your tomatoes to encourage ripe, red beauties.  They need stress to encourage ripening.
• Feed your plants early in the morning when it's cool.  Use foliar feed for a quick burst of greening, fruit set, and blooms.  I use Bonide Fish Fertilizer for everything in my yard.  I mix it with Superthrive once a month to help with stress and heat. (I transplant lots of stuff in the summer temps). It works fast and it's easy!
• Water in the morning--I cannot stress enough how important this is.  Between 7am & 9am is ideal for the heat of summer.  Water deep to encourage deep, healthy roots and make sure newly planted trees are getting a thorough drench at least 5 times a week in August.  Soaking versus sprinkling is also much more efficient and effective!  Don't forget that mulching will also make a big difference in water retention in your landscape.  Stop by for more gardening tips....

GOT PATCHES IN YOUR LAWN?  DID YOU KNOW...
The common Lawn Moth (webworm) larvae are laid in your grass by adult moths and eat your lawn roots, causing dead patches randomly scattered about your yard.  The mystery is solved!   We have an easy, people and pet-friendly, organic remedy that works!  Use Bonide  Captain Jack's Deadbug Brew.  It works on so many pests it is incredible.  This remedy is great for use on bagworms, webworms, borers, beetles, caterpillars, codling moth, gypsy moth, spider mites, loopers, leaf miners, tent caterpillars, thrips, and more.  The active ingredient is Spinosad, a bacteria found in an old abandoned rum mine in the Caribbean.  It has become the leading method for organic insect control in the country.  Did I mention Tomato Hornworms.....yup, it works on them, too.  It's pretty wonderful.  Don't forget it is safe for people and pets!

 It's that time of year when you should be harvesting lots and lots of beautiful homegrown tomatoes from the vine, and hopefully handfuls of basil. You will want to make two of these delights because they are so good and they freeze well too!

1 BAKED 9" pie shell
4-6 large red tomatoes -  sliced      very thick                                                  1 bunch of green onions - chopped
½ cup Parmesan cheese grated
1-2 crushed cloves garlic
Oregano to taste
Fresh basil LOTS - Use the whole leaves - not chopped
2 tbs water
1 tbs cornstarch
1 cup mayonnaise (Do not use "lite" or Miracle Whip)
2 cup grated cheddar cheese
Make two layers of the first 6 ingredients
Mix cornstarch water/ dribble over tomatoes
Mix Mayo and cheese and spread on top edge to edge
Bake 350 for 45min - 1 hour

           You MUST try this recipe!             It is so delicious.