KNJ's 2015 Garden - Page 2

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[ARCHIVED THREAD] - KNJ's 2015 Garden (Page 2 of 2)

Posted: 6/17/2015 8:00:20 AM EDT

[#1]

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Quoted:
Yup, you need to work on a taller fence system. With all that clover you planted I bet you have every deer within 20 miles lined up to use your place as a buffet.

Cool little seat setup you built. Everything just cut at 45deg?

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Had a fawn bed down in these greens two nights ago, but they sprung back up after.

Yup, you need to work on a taller fence system. With all that clover you planted I bet you have every deer within 20 miles lined up to use your place as a buffet.

Cool little seat setup you built. Everything just cut at 45deg?

A proper fence is definitely in the plans.

The efence is mostly to keep my sheep and dogs out as well as the occasional rabbit. I haven't had too much deer trouble, despite having big #s out here. They have food a plenty around here so seldom do they trouble themselves to jump in to the garden. The fawn was hanging out with my sheep for a couple of days following her mother getting hit on the road.

The benches are cut at 30 degrees. After I made them I found another variation with armrests and a taller back/seat - I'll probably knock of a few of those together as well.

The variant I found:

Basic bench plans:

Posted: 6/17/2015 10:13:50 AM EDT

[#2]

Still swimming in squash... think we're going to try both the dehydrator and freezing some.

Picked a few of the more crowded carrots for the kids.

Posted: 6/18/2015 1:20:04 AM EDT

[#3]

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Quoted:
The fawn was hanging out with my sheep for a couple of days following her mother getting hit on the road.

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Thanks for the drawings and pics.

I bet your kids got a kick from seeing the fawn out there with the sheep!

Posted: 6/18/2015 9:18:37 AM EDT

[#4]

The carrots are looking good. Are those atomic reds?

Posted: 6/18/2015 9:27:25 AM EDT

[#5]

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Quoted:

The carrots are looking good. Are those atomic reds?

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They are doing better this year since I've gotten (a bit) better as thinning.

I believe the colored one is from a pinch of "purple dragons" I sowed in with the nantes.

Posted: 6/18/2015 6:43:55 PM EDT

[#6]

I swore I had tagged this thread, but nada.

So...TAG.

Posted: 6/18/2015 6:52:46 PM EDT

[#7]

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Quoted:

<snip>...

Greens bed still doing well. Slowly taking out the bolting spinach, etc and trying second plantings of different varieties. Curious what if any greens I'll be able to start/grow in summer vs spring. Simpson is till doing great. Rosalita (new for me this year) is also doing very well and will get more space next year. Chard always does well here. One of a few plantings of carrots here too.

<a href="http://s213.photobucket.com/user/kallnojoy/media/20150616_100242_zpsg8mchcpz.jpg.html" target="_blank">http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc101/kallnojoy/20150616_100242_zpsg8mchcpz.jpg</a>

Beans and a rogue cucumber taking to the arch well.

<a href="http://s213.photobucket.com/user/kallnojoy/media/20150616_100333_zpsdv2dyhsj.jpg.html" target="_blank">http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc101/kallnojoy/20150616_100333_zpsdv2dyhsj.jpg</a>

And the pest of the day is "Rhubarb Curculio Beetle":

<a href="http://s213.photobucket.com/user/kallnojoy/media/20150616_100450_zpsqwlshwap.jpg.html" target="_blank">http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc101/kallnojoy/20150616_100450_zpsqwlshwap.jpg</a>

<snip>..

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Have you thought of trying some summer lettuces under that arch? The shade might help a little in our heat.

Posted: 6/18/2015 9:38:56 PM EDT

[#8]

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Quoted:
Have you thought of trying some summer lettuces under that arch? The shade might help a little in our heat.

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Quoted:

<snip>...

Greens bed still doing well. Slowly taking out the bolting spinach, etc and trying second plantings of different varieties. Curious what if any greens I'll be able to start/grow in summer vs spring. Simpson is till doing great. Rosalita (new for me this year) is also doing very well and will get more space next year. Chard always does well here. One of a few plantings of carrots here too.

<a href="http://s213.photobucket.com/user/kallnojoy/media/20150616_100242_zpsg8mchcpz.jpg.html" target="_blank">http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc101/kallnojoy/20150616_100242_zpsg8mchcpz.jpg</a>
Beans and a rogue cucumber taking to the arch well.

<a href="http://s213.photobucket.com/user/kallnojoy/media/20150616_100333_zpsdv2dyhsj.jpg.html" target="_blank">http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc101/kallnojoy/20150616_100333_zpsdv2dyhsj.jpg</a>

And the pest of the day is "Rhubarb Curculio Beetle":

<a href="http://s213.photobucket.com/user/kallnojoy/media/20150616_100450_zpsqwlshwap.jpg.html" target="_blank">http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc101/kallnojoy/20150616_100450_zpsqwlshwap.jpg</a>

<snip>..

Have you thought of trying some summer lettuces under that arch? The shade might help a little in our heat.

Not a bad idea... I may have to give it a shot, thanks!

Posted: 6/19/2015 10:56:46 AM EDT

[#9]

Another recent project coming together - built a small retaining wall near the kids play area and back-filled with mediocre fill dirt topped with some partially composted sheep bedding. I initially just sowed a bag of wild flower seeds I had, but given that it had spent two years in the garage I was worried about germination rate - so I threw is some clover and bluegrass seeds to avoid it staying bare. Of course, the wild flower seeds did great, and now I regret the clover/grass - but it wasn't really meant to be a flower garden anyway - I just though I'd surprise my wife with a splash of color.

" />

Posted: 6/19/2015 5:25:01 PM EDT

[#10]

While checking the apple trees I noticed several lady bugs... knowing that likely means aphids, I looked closer and sure enough:

The subsequent detail inspection revealed a half-dozen of these little beasties as well, which became chicken snacks:

I think I'm going to try a soap spray for the aphids, probably a dilution of Murphy's.

Posted: 6/19/2015 7:41:42 PM EDT

[#11]

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Quoted:
While checking the apple trees I noticed several lady bugs... knowing that likely means aphids, I looked closer and sure enough:

<a href="http://s213.photobucket.com/user/kallnojoy/media/20150619_145326_zpsei06sgea.jpg.html" target="_blank">http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc101/kallnojoy/20150619_145326_zpsei06sgea.jpg</a>

The subsequent detail inspection revealed a half-dozen of these little beasties as well, which became chicken snacks:

<a href="http://s213.photobucket.com/user/kallnojoy/media/20150619_145313_zpsasavrobb.jpg.html" target="_blank">http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc101/kallnojoy/20150619_145313_zpsasavrobb.jpg</a>

I think I'm going to try a soap spray for the aphids, probably a dilution of Murphy's.

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You can also just blast them with a hose. Even with the ants herding them back up it takes them a while.

Posted: 6/20/2015 3:15:37 AM EDT

[#12]

Quote History

Quoted:
Another recent project coming together - built a small retaining wall near the kids play area and back-filled with mediocre fill dirt topped with some partially composted sheep bedding. I initially just sowed a bag of wild flower seeds I had, but given that it had spent two years in the garage I was worried about germination rate - so I threw is some clover and bluegrass seeds to avoid it staying bare. Of course, the wild flower seeds did great, and now I regret the clover/grass - but it wasn't really meant to be a flower garden anyway - I just though I'd surprise my wife with a splash of color.

http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc101/kallnojoy/Mobile%20Uploads/20150616_112009_zps15wrrjnh.jpg" />

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It's gorgeous! I wanted to comment on that in the "bench" posts, but figured I would be distracting from the subject.

Y'all work hard on your place, and it shows.

That's a really pretty rock wall.

Posted: 6/21/2015 10:33:18 PM EDT

[#13]

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Quoted:
You can also just blast them with a hose. Even with the ants herding them back up it takes them a while.

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Quoted:

Quoted:

While checking the apple trees I noticed several lady bugs... knowing that likely means aphids, I looked closer and sure enough:

<a href="http://s213.photobucket.com/user/kallnojoy/media/20150619_145326_zpsei06sgea.jpg.html" target="_blank">http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc101/kallnojoy/20150619_145326_zpsei06sgea.jpg</a>

The subsequent detail inspection revealed a half-dozen of these little beasties as well, which became chicken snacks:

<a href="http://s213.photobucket.com/user/kallnojoy/media/20150619_145313_zpsasavrobb.jpg.html" target="_blank">http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc101/kallnojoy/20150619_145313_zpsasavrobb.jpg</a>

I think I'm going to try a soap spray for the aphids, probably a dilution of Murphy's.

You can also just blast them with a hose. Even with the ants herding them back up it takes them a while.

Seems a day and 1/2 of strong storms does a fair job as well!

Picked up 3-4" inches over the weekend as the remains of Bill blew through and only 1 of the 3 apple trees still showed any aphids today. I'll spray tomorrow and see if any return.

Posted: 6/21/2015 10:34:45 PM EDT

[#14]

Quote History

Quoted:
It's gorgeous! I wanted to comment on that in the "bench" posts, but figured I would be distracting from the subject.

Y'all work hard on your place, and it shows.

That's a really pretty rock wall.

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Quote History

Quoted:

Quoted:

Another recent project coming together - built a small retaining wall near the kids play area and back-filled with mediocre fill dirt topped with some partially composted sheep bedding. I initially just sowed a bag of wild flower seeds I had, but given that it had spent two years in the garage I was worried about germination rate - so I threw is some clover and bluegrass seeds to avoid it staying bare. Of course, the wild flower seeds did great, and now I regret the clover/grass - but it wasn't really meant to be a flower garden anyway - I just though I'd surprise my wife with a splash of color.

http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc101/kallnojoy/Mobile%20Uploads/20150616_112009_zps15wrrjnh.jpg" />

It's gorgeous! I wanted to comment on that in the "bench" posts, but figured I would be distracting from the subject.

Y'all work hard on your place, and it shows.

That's a really pretty rock wall.

Thanks Kittie. The areas we've gotten to are coming along well... but there is a lot to be done yet!

Posted: 6/21/2015 11:32:31 PM EDT

[#15]

Quote History

Quoted:

Seems a day and 1/2 of strong storms does a fair job as well!

Picked up 3-4" inches over the weekend as the remains of Bill blew through and only 1 of the 3 apple trees still showed any aphids today. I'll spray tomorrow and see if any return.

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Quote History

Quoted:

Quoted:
While checking the apple trees I noticed several lady bugs... knowing that likely means aphids, I looked closer and sure enough:

<a href="http://s213.photobucket.com/user/kallnojoy/media/20150619_145326_zpsei06sgea.jpg.html" target="_blank">http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc101/kallnojoy/20150619_145326_zpsei06sgea.jpg</a>

The subsequent detail inspection revealed a half-dozen of these little beasties as well, which became chicken snacks:

<a href="http://s213.photobucket.com/user/kallnojoy/media/20150619_145313_zpsasavrobb.jpg.html" target="_blank">http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc101/kallnojoy/20150619_145313_zpsasavrobb.jpg</a>

I think I'm going to try a soap spray for the aphids, probably a dilution of Murphy's.

You can also just blast them with a hose. Even with the ants herding them back up it takes them a while.

Seems a day and 1/2 of strong storms does a fair job as well!

Picked up 3-4" inches over the weekend as the remains of Bill blew through and only 1 of the 3 apple trees still showed any aphids today. I'll spray tomorrow and see if any return.

Let us know what soap you use and your dilution rate, will you?

Posted: 6/23/2015 7:42:39 PM EDT

[#16]

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Quoted:
Let us know what soap you use and your dilution rate, will you?

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Quoted:

Quoted:

You can also just blast them with a hose. Even with the ants herding them back up it takes them a while.

Seems a day and 1/2 of strong storms does a fair job as well!

Picked up 3-4" inches over the weekend as the remains of Bill blew through and only 1 of the 3 apple trees still showed any aphids today. I'll spray tomorrow and see if any return.

Let us know what soap you use and your dilution rate, will you?

2 tsp Murphy Oil to 24 oz water = a refreshing aphid tonic

I will be trying 4 tsp tonight...

Posted: 6/25/2015 7:14:26 AM EDT

[#17]

4 tsp gave a very moderate kill rate... like ~ 10 %.

Went to 6 tsp this morning.

Posted: 6/26/2015 8:11:55 AM EDT

[#18]

6 tsp Murphy Oil to 24 oz water certainly did it.

It also discolor the underside of the leaves... looks like it might have stripped some of the "wax" off. Will see if the leaves survive and update.

With that said, 5 tsp might be the sweet spot instead.

Posted: 6/26/2015 8:29:12 AM EDT

[#19]

More garden pics/updates...
So in addition to the aphids pestering the apple trees, the fuji (center below) now has a full on case of Cedar Rust. I knew it was a risk given that we have a LOT of cedar on the property... and the wood line immediately behind the garden (north side) is almost all cedar. The next few trees will have to be resistant varieties, though none are my favorite eating apples.

The rest of the garden is doing well. Some areas are in transition where I'm replacing spring plantings with summer.

Cucumbers and some cherry tomatoes on the trellis:

Beans, a cucumber or two and sunflowers on the other side of the trellis:

Grape trellis almost done:

Sweet corn about 6' now and tassling - along with several volunteer tomatoes:

Have a handful of blackberries ripening on the new plantings:

One of two sets of summer squash:

The other squash:

Carrots and greens bed in transition:

Another year of make-shift tomato trellising - but they are putting on serious fruit none the less:

A decent second year (so far)!

Posted: 6/26/2015 4:42:58 PM EDT

[#20]

Quote History

Quoted:
More garden pics/updates...

So in addition to the aphids pestering the apple trees, the fuji (center below) now has a full on case of Cedar Rust. I knew it was a risk given that we have a LOT of cedar on the property... and the wood line immediately behind the garden (north side) is almost all cedar. The next few trees will have to be resistant varieties, though none are my favorite eating apples.

<a href="http://s213.photobucket.com/user/kallnojoy/media/20150626_073938_zpsiala7twc.jpg.html" target="_blank">http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc101/kallnojoy/20150626_073938_zpsiala7twc.jpg</a>

<a href="http://s213.photobucket.com/user/kallnojoy/media/20150626_074104_zpsmsex63me.jpg.html" target="_blank">http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc101/kallnojoy/20150626_074104_zpsmsex63me.jpg</a>

The rest of the garden is doing well. Some areas are in transition where I'm replacing spring plantings with summer.

Cucumbers and some cherry tomatoes on the trellis:

<a href="http://s213.photobucket.com/user/kallnojoy/media/20150626_074233_zpsnykfzks7.jpg.html" target="_blank">http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc101/kallnojoy/20150626_074233_zpsnykfzks7.jpg</a>

Beans, a cucumber or two and sunflowers on the other side of the trellis:

<a href="http://s213.photobucket.com/user/kallnojoy/media/20150626_074242_zpsabfcywce.jpg.html" target="_blank">http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc101/kallnojoy/20150626_074242_zpsabfcywce.jpg</a>

Grape trellis almost done:

<a href="http://s213.photobucket.com/user/kallnojoy/media/20150626_074255_zpsvezmirjs.jpg.html" target="_blank">http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc101/kallnojoy/20150626_074255_zpsvezmirjs.jpg</a>

Sweet corn about 6' now and tassling - along with several volunteer tomatoes:

<a href="http://s213.photobucket.com/user/kallnojoy/media/20150626_074348_zpsb6ta5ziw.jpg.html" target="_blank">http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc101/kallnojoy/20150626_074348_zpsb6ta5ziw.jpg</a>

Have a handful of blackberries ripening on the new plantings:

<a href="http://s213.photobucket.com/user/kallnojoy/media/20150626_074359_zpsqctddf66.jpg.html" target="_blank">http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc101/kallnojoy/20150626_074359_zpsqctddf66.jpg</a>

One of two sets of summer squash:

<a href="http://s213.photobucket.com/user/kallnojoy/media/20150626_074409_zpsxarre0vj.jpg.html" target="_blank">http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc101/kallnojoy/20150626_074409_zpsxarre0vj.jpg</a>

The other squash:

<a href="http://s213.photobucket.com/user/kallnojoy/media/20150626_074419_zpsrpulkted.jpg.html" target="_blank">http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc101/kallnojoy/20150626_074419_zpsrpulkted.jpg</a>

Carrots and greens bed in transition:

<a href="http://s213.photobucket.com/user/kallnojoy/media/20150626_074424_zpsoezsaphi.jpg.html" target="_blank">http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc101/kallnojoy/20150626_074424_zpsoezsaphi.jpg</a>

Another year of make-shift tomato trellising - but they are putting on serious fruit none the less:

<a href="http://s213.photobucket.com/user/kallnojoy/media/20150626_074437_zpsntkxuoce.jpg.html" target="_blank">http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc101/kallnojoy/20150626_074437_zpsntkxuoce.jpg</a>

A decent second year (so far)!

<a href="http://s213.photobucket.com/user/kallnojoy/media/20150626_074511_zpsrtp0uxrm.jpg.html" target="_blank">http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc101/kallnojoy/20150626_074511_zpsrtp0uxrm.jpg</a>

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Your garden is gorgeous. I just love that trellis. I want to do that.

Is that two panels or one? And was it any trouble to bend it?

Posted: 7/3/2015 10:04:40 AM EDT

[#21]

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Quoted:
Your garden is gorgeous. I just love that trellis. I want to do that.

Is that two panels or one? And was it any trouble to bend it?

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Quoted:

Quoted:

More garden pics/updates...
So in addition to the aphids pestering the apple trees, the fuji (center below) now has a full on case of Cedar Rust. I knew it was a risk given that we have a LOT of cedar on the property... and the wood line immediately behind the garden (north side) is almost all cedar. The next few trees will have to be resistant varieties, though none are my favorite eating apples.

<a href="http://s213.photobucket.com/user/kallnojoy/media/20150626_073938_zpsiala7twc.jpg.html" target="_blank">http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc101/kallnojoy/20150626_073938_zpsiala7twc.jpg</a>

<a href="http://s213.photobucket.com/user/kallnojoy/media/20150626_074104_zpsmsex63me.jpg.html" target="_blank">http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc101/kallnojoy/20150626_074104_zpsmsex63me.jpg</a>
The rest of the garden is doing well. Some areas are in transition where I'm replacing spring plantings with summer.

Cucumbers and some cherry tomatoes on the trellis:

<a href="http://s213.photobucket.com/user/kallnojoy/media/20150626_074233_zpsnykfzks7.jpg.html" target="_blank">http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc101/kallnojoy/20150626_074233_zpsnykfzks7.jpg</a>

Beans, a cucumber or two and sunflowers on the other side of the trellis:

<a href="http://s213.photobucket.com/user/kallnojoy/media/20150626_074242_zpsabfcywce.jpg.html" target="_blank">http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc101/kallnojoy/20150626_074242_zpsabfcywce.jpg</a>

Grape trellis almost done:

<a href="http://s213.photobucket.com/user/kallnojoy/media/20150626_074255_zpsvezmirjs.jpg.html" target="_blank">http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc101/kallnojoy/20150626_074255_zpsvezmirjs.jpg</a>

Sweet corn about 6' now and tassling - along with several volunteer tomatoes:

<a href="http://s213.photobucket.com/user/kallnojoy/media/20150626_074348_zpsb6ta5ziw.jpg.html" target="_blank">http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc101/kallnojoy/20150626_074348_zpsb6ta5ziw.jpg</a>

Have a handful of blackberries ripening on the new plantings:

<a href="http://s213.photobucket.com/user/kallnojoy/media/20150626_074359_zpsqctddf66.jpg.html" target="_blank">http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc101/kallnojoy/20150626_074359_zpsqctddf66.jpg</a>

One of two sets of summer squash:

<a href="http://s213.photobucket.com/user/kallnojoy/media/20150626_074409_zpsxarre0vj.jpg.html" target="_blank">http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc101/kallnojoy/20150626_074409_zpsxarre0vj.jpg</a>

The other squash:

<a href="http://s213.photobucket.com/user/kallnojoy/media/20150626_074419_zpsrpulkted.jpg.html" target="_blank">http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc101/kallnojoy/20150626_074419_zpsrpulkted.jpg</a>

Carrots and greens bed in transition:

<a href="http://s213.photobucket.com/user/kallnojoy/media/20150626_074424_zpsoezsaphi.jpg.html" target="_blank">http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc101/kallnojoy/20150626_074424_zpsoezsaphi.jpg</a>

Another year of make-shift tomato trellising - but they are putting on serious fruit none the less:

<a href="http://s213.photobucket.com/user/kallnojoy/media/20150626_074437_zpsntkxuoce.jpg.html" target="_blank">http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc101/kallnojoy/20150626_074437_zpsntkxuoce.jpg</a>

A decent second year (so far)!

<a href="http://s213.photobucket.com/user/kallnojoy/media/20150626_074511_zpsrtp0uxrm.jpg.html" target="_blank">http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc101/kallnojoy/20150626_074511_zpsrtp0uxrm.jpg</a>

Your garden is gorgeous. I just love that trellis. I want to do that.

Is that two panels or one? And was it any trouble to bend it?

Thanks - it does clean up well for a country garden.

The trellis is a single panel, so about 50" wide - depending on the type. At 16' long, they bend without trouble if you can wrangle them into position, and give you about a 6' peak and a 8' diameter. Two lightweight T-posts on each end are all it needs to anchor it.

It has been wet, Wet, WET! here for the last few weeks... no pics to share but the garden is doing pretty well. The raised beds help keep most of the plants from getting too water logged.

Strong winds snapped the head off my giant sunflower... the smaller sunflowers and corn survived intact though. The corn is now putting on a good number of ears. I've been letting them do their own thing (mostly out of me not knowing if there is anything I should be doing!). Not sure how we'll they've pollinated with all of the strong wind and rain.

Squash is booming. Or said another way, we're officially tired of squash! 4 plants are netting me a grocery bag full every other day now. We've dehydrated a bunch, froze some, grilled/boiled/sautéed more... now I'm letting the surplus get to near monster size and feeding them to the chickens, which works out well. Maybe I can trick the dogs into eating some...

The apple tree I sprayed for aphids is doing great. The sprayed leaves recovered just fine, indistinguishable from the others now. Between the soap, lady bugs and the winds/rains there isn't an aphid to be found. The Fuji with Cedar Rust isn't so hot though. Not sure if I'm going to treat, pull it or just wait and see. The latter is most probable - I'm not inclined to push against nature to make a plant work where it shouldn't (that and I'm lazy).

Cucumbers are doing great - finally. Got skunked last year, but this year the straight-eights and some monster eastern European variety are both producing well. Kids are enjoying the carrots - as much the harvesting as the eating.

KY beans are coming in now too. Japanese beetles are a nuisance, but so far manageable by hand demolishing those I find.

The thornless blackberries actually ripened a few berries... which the birds promptly ate. I've got some row netting I need to deploy as well as some old black garden hose I'm going to chop up and pose as snakes around the garden.

Next few weeks should net a ton of tomatoes... several varieties have a lot of fruit starting to ripen and despite all the rain, so far no disease.

The two watermelon vines are setting fruit. Was hoping they would be further along by now.

I did breakdown and buy a fairly mature eggplant. My self-started ones are still struggling against the flea beetle onslaught. I'm hoping a more mature plant can better weather the attack.

Checked on the bees a few days ago. Had to consolidate down to two hives due to the thirds losing their queen and not effectively recovering. One of the two remaining hives created a nasty snarl of cross comb in the 2nd box (foundationless lang.). They need another box added for growth, so I need a break in the rain to get out there and straighten them out and get the next box on before they decide they are out of room.

Chickens are hating the rain. Even though they are in moveable tractors it's hard to keep them from standing in mud. Have another 50 in the incubator presently. Most will be sold as chicks but hoping for a few decent roosters to rotate into the breeding pens.

Hope everyone else's early summer gardens are doing well.

Posted: 7/13/2015 8:28:08 PM EDT

[#22]

Wet is still the word of the day here.

First year trying onions - wasn't sure when to harvest. Pulled a fist size one last week and it was pretty decent. Went to pull another today and the bulb was mush. Checked the rest and out of a dozen, all but two were pulp. Not sure if was all the rain or pests or both... but a bust none the less.

That made me wonder about the potatoes... so I dug a corner of the bed and found a few decent spuds. One thing led to another and I ended up digging up 1/2 of the 4'x8' bed. Hard to stop poking around once you start. Ended up with a 1/2 of a 5 gallon bucket full of decent potatoes. Most "new" to small, but a fair number of bake size. Not overwhelmed, but not a bust. Almost all of the spuds were found in the first 6" of compost rather than down in the unimproved (but turned) soil underneath.

Beans are doing great - have harvested probably a 5 gallon bucket full so far.

Back side of the arch and a few of the smaller sunflowers:

Cukes doing well on the other side of the arch:

Today's haul:

Yes, I know the squash is oversized. Partly because I'm letting a lot of it get huge for the chickens and partly because the wife wanted larger ones for a stuffed squash recipe.

My simple/cheap solution for terminating the trellis wire:

Posted: 7/14/2015 4:45:27 AM EDT

[#23]

Quote History

Quoted:
More garden pics/updates...

So in addition to the aphids pestering the apple trees, the fuji (center below) now has a full on case of Cedar Rust. I knew it was a risk given that we have a LOT of cedar on the property... and the wood line immediately behind the garden (north side) is almost all cedar. The next few trees will have to be resistant varieties, though none are my favorite eating apples.

<a href="http://s213.photobucket.com/user/kallnojoy/media/20150626_073938_zpsiala7twc.jpg.html" target="_blank">http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc101/kallnojoy/20150626_073938_zpsiala7twc.jpg</a>

<a href="http://s213.photobucket.com/user/kallnojoy/media/20150626_074104_zpsmsex63me.jpg.html" target="_blank">http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc101/kallnojoy/20150626_074104_zpsmsex63me.jpg</a>

The rest of the garden is doing well. Some areas are in transition where I'm replacing spring plantings with summer.

Cucumbers and some cherry tomatoes on the trellis:

<a href="http://s213.photobucket.com/user/kallnojoy/media/20150626_074233_zpsnykfzks7.jpg.html" target="_blank">http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc101/kallnojoy/20150626_074233_zpsnykfzks7.jpg</a>

Beans, a cucumber or two and sunflowers on the other side of the trellis:

<a href="http://s213.photobucket.com/user/kallnojoy/media/20150626_074242_zpsabfcywce.jpg.html" target="_blank">http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc101/kallnojoy/20150626_074242_zpsabfcywce.jpg</a>

Grape trellis almost done:

<a href="http://s213.photobucket.com/user/kallnojoy/media/20150626_074255_zpsvezmirjs.jpg.html" target="_blank">http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc101/kallnojoy/20150626_074255_zpsvezmirjs.jpg</a>

Sweet corn about 6' now and tassling - along with several volunteer tomatoes:

<a href="http://s213.photobucket.com/user/kallnojoy/media/20150626_074348_zpsb6ta5ziw.jpg.html" target="_blank">http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc101/kallnojoy/20150626_074348_zpsb6ta5ziw.jpg</a>

Have a handful of blackberries ripening on the new plantings:

<a href="http://s213.photobucket.com/user/kallnojoy/media/20150626_074359_zpsqctddf66.jpg.html" target="_blank">http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc101/kallnojoy/20150626_074359_zpsqctddf66.jpg</a>

One of two sets of summer squash:

<a href="http://s213.photobucket.com/user/kallnojoy/media/20150626_074409_zpsxarre0vj.jpg.html" target="_blank">http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc101/kallnojoy/20150626_074409_zpsxarre0vj.jpg</a>

The other squash:

<a href="http://s213.photobucket.com/user/kallnojoy/media/20150626_074419_zpsrpulkted.jpg.html" target="_blank">http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc101/kallnojoy/20150626_074419_zpsrpulkted.jpg</a>

Carrots and greens bed in transition:

<a href="http://s213.photobucket.com/user/kallnojoy/media/20150626_074424_zpsoezsaphi.jpg.html" target="_blank">http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc101/kallnojoy/20150626_074424_zpsoezsaphi.jpg</a>

Another year of make-shift tomato trellising - but they are putting on serious fruit none the less:

<a href="http://s213.photobucket.com/user/kallnojoy/media/20150626_074437_zpsntkxuoce.jpg.html" target="_blank">http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc101/kallnojoy/20150626_074437_zpsntkxuoce.jpg</a>

A decent second year (so far)!

<a href="http://s213.photobucket.com/user/kallnojoy/media/20150626_074511_zpsrtp0uxrm.jpg.html" target="_blank">http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc101/kallnojoy/20150626_074511_zpsrtp0uxrm.jpg</a>

View Quote

How high is the grape trellis?
Got an old clothes line in my yard that I have thought of trying to grow grapes or muscadines on.

Posted: 7/14/2015 7:43:46 AM EDT

[#24]

Quote History

Quoted:

How high is the grape trellis?

Got an old clothes line in my yard that I have thought of trying to grow grapes or muscadines on.

View Quote View All Quotes

View All Quotes

Quote History

Quoted:

Quoted:

More garden pics/updates...

So in addition to the aphids pestering the apple trees, the fuji (center below) now has a full on case of Cedar Rust. I knew it was a risk given that we have a LOT of cedar on the property... and the wood line immediately behind the garden (north side) is almost all cedar. The next few trees will have to be resistant varieties, though none are my favorite eating apples.

<a href="http://s213.photobucket.com/user/kallnojoy/media/20150626_073938_zpsiala7twc.jpg.html" target="_blank">http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc101/kallnojoy/20150626_073938_zpsiala7twc.jpg</a>

<a href="http://s213.photobucket.com/user/kallnojoy/media/20150626_074104_zpsmsex63me.jpg.html" target="_blank">http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc101/kallnojoy/20150626_074104_zpsmsex63me.jpg</a>

The rest of the garden is doing well. Some areas are in transition where I'm replacing spring plantings with summer.

Cucumbers and some cherry tomatoes on the trellis:

<a href="http://s213.photobucket.com/user/kallnojoy/media/20150626_074233_zpsnykfzks7.jpg.html" target="_blank">http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc101/kallnojoy/20150626_074233_zpsnykfzks7.jpg</a>

Beans, a cucumber or two and sunflowers on the other side of the trellis:

<a href="http://s213.photobucket.com/user/kallnojoy/media/20150626_074242_zpsabfcywce.jpg.html" target="_blank">http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc101/kallnojoy/20150626_074242_zpsabfcywce.jpg</a>

Grape trellis almost done:

<a href="http://s213.photobucket.com/user/kallnojoy/media/20150626_074255_zpsvezmirjs.jpg.html" target="_blank">http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc101/kallnojoy/20150626_074255_zpsvezmirjs.jpg</a>

Sweet corn about 6' now and tassling - along with several volunteer tomatoes:

<a href="http://s213.photobucket.com/user/kallnojoy/media/20150626_074348_zpsb6ta5ziw.jpg.html" target="_blank">http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc101/kallnojoy/20150626_074348_zpsb6ta5ziw.jpg</a>

Have a handful of blackberries ripening on the new plantings:

<a href="http://s213.photobucket.com/user/kallnojoy/media/20150626_074359_zpsqctddf66.jpg.html" target="_blank">http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc101/kallnojoy/20150626_074359_zpsqctddf66.jpg</a>

One of two sets of summer squash:

<a href="http://s213.photobucket.com/user/kallnojoy/media/20150626_074409_zpsxarre0vj.jpg.html" target="_blank">http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc101/kallnojoy/20150626_074409_zpsxarre0vj.jpg</a>

The other squash:

<a href="http://s213.photobucket.com/user/kallnojoy/media/20150626_074419_zpsrpulkted.jpg.html" target="_blank">http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc101/kallnojoy/20150626_074419_zpsrpulkted.jpg</a>

Carrots and greens bed in transition:

<a href="http://s213.photobucket.com/user/kallnojoy/media/20150626_074424_zpsoezsaphi.jpg.html" target="_blank">http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc101/kallnojoy/20150626_074424_zpsoezsaphi.jpg</a>

Another year of make-shift tomato trellising - but they are putting on serious fruit none the less:

<a href="http://s213.photobucket.com/user/kallnojoy/media/20150626_074437_zpsntkxuoce.jpg.html" target="_blank">http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc101/kallnojoy/20150626_074437_zpsntkxuoce.jpg</a>

A decent second year (so far)!

<a href="http://s213.photobucket.com/user/kallnojoy/media/20150626_074511_zpsrtp0uxrm.jpg.html" target="_blank">http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc101/kallnojoy/20150626_074511_zpsrtp0uxrm.jpg</a>

How high is the grape trellis?

Got an old clothes line in my yard that I have thought of trying to grow grapes or muscadines on.

A bit over 6'

Posted: 7/14/2015 12:09:51 PM EDT

[#25]

KNJ, will your wife share her stuffed squash recipe?

If my squash vines make it, I may try that.

I'm also wondering something about your squash vines having grass grown up around them instead of being completely cleaned out. I'm wondering if that doesn't make it a little harder for the SVB moth to get in there to lay her eggs.

Posted: 7/15/2015 8:54:46 AM EDT

[#26]

I really like your arch setup! It also is causing the produce to hang below the leaves, which must make it a lot easier to find it to pick!

Posted: 7/17/2015 4:49:47 PM EDT

[#27]

Quote History

Quoted:

KNJ, will your wife share her stuffed squash recipe?

If my squash vines make it, I may try that.

I'm also wondering something about your squash vines having grass grown up around them instead of being completely cleaned out. I'm wondering if that doesn't make it a little harder for the SVB moth to get in there to lay her eggs.

View Quote

I asked the Mrs about the recipe and she said she is "in between" recipes presently - she has been trying a plethora of variations to find one that both kids will readily eat. When (if?!) she nails one down I'll pass it on.

As for the lack of SVB - I have no clue. One of the sets of squash is on the ground and has a fair amount of grass around the perimeter, but the other is in a raised bed (or at least started there!) so its mostly clear underneath. As an aside - I discovered squash reaches a maximum size and then turns into a brick! Was all I could do to saw it into rings to feed to the chickens!

I am really not much for chemical treating, so I've been waiting (and waiting) for the squash to get attacked, wilt and die - but nothing has bothered them this year (so far). Not the case with my rhubarb experiment - it's been pummeled mercilessly. I have seen a sudden spike in "stink bugs" around the garden, so bad bugs are certainly around.

I do think my population of beneficial bugs helps to some degree... I have tons of ladybugs, lacewings and other good guys this year.

Posted: 7/17/2015 4:51:18 PM EDT

[#28]

Quote History

Quoted:

I really like your arch setup! It also is causing the produce to hang below the leaves, which must make it a lot easier to find it to pick!

View Quote

Thanks - it's really worked out well for the beans and cucumbers. Does make picking easy for the whole family and doesn't look half bad either.

ETA: it also makes collecting Japanese beetles a snap, since their defense is to let go of their perch when alarmed, they fall right into a waiting pail with little effort.

Posted: 7/17/2015 9:32:01 PM EDT

[#29]

Quote History

Quoted:

I asked the Mrs about the recipe and she said she is "in between" recipes presently - she has been trying a plethora of variations to find one that both kids will readily eat. When (if?!) she nails one down I'll pass it on.

As for the lack of SVB - I have no clue. One of the sets of squash is on the ground and has a fair amount of grass around the perimeter, but the other is in a raised bed (or at least started there!) so its mostly clear underneath. As an aside - I discovered squash reaches a maximum size and then turns into a brick! Was all I could do to saw it into rings to feed to the chickens!

I am really not much for chemical treating, so I've been waiting (and waiting) for the squash to get attacked, wilt and die - but nothing has bothered them this year (so far). Not the case with my rhubarb experiment - it's been pummeled mercilessly. I have seen a sudden spike in "stink bugs" around the garden, so bad bugs are certainly around.

I do think my population of beneficial bugs helps to some degree... I have tons of ladybugs, lacewings and other good guys this year.

View Quote View All Quotes

View All Quotes

Quote History

Quoted:

Quoted:
KNJ, will your wife share her stuffed squash recipe?

If my squash vines make it, I may try that.

I'm also wondering something about your squash vines having grass grown up around them instead of being completely cleaned out. I'm wondering if that doesn't make it a little harder for the SVB moth to get in there to lay her eggs.

I asked the Mrs about the recipe and she said she is "in between" recipes presently - she has been trying a plethora of variations to find one that both kids will readily eat. When (if?!) she nails one down I'll pass it on.

As for the lack of SVB - I have no clue. One of the sets of squash is on the ground and has a fair amount of grass around the perimeter, but the other is in a raised bed (or at least started there!) so its mostly clear underneath. As an aside - I discovered squash reaches a maximum size and then turns into a brick! Was all I could do to saw it into rings to feed to the chickens!

I am really not much for chemical treating, so I've been waiting (and waiting) for the squash to get attacked, wilt and die - but nothing has bothered them this year (so far). Not the case with my rhubarb experiment - it's been pummeled mercilessly. I have seen a sudden spike in "stink bugs" around the garden, so bad bugs are certainly around.

I do think my population of beneficial bugs helps to some degree... I have tons of ladybugs, lacewings and other good guys this year.

KNJ, did you populate the beneficials, or did they happen naturally? I'm a big fan of that, and any kind of insecticide takes them out too.

I'm thinking always rotate that squash--even to another part of the yard if you could. I don't know if that would work, and I know that's a PITA. So glad you haven't been attacked.

Posted: 7/17/2015 9:34:46 PM EDT

[#30]

Quote History

Quoted:

Thanks - it's really worked out well for the beans and cucumbers. Does make picking easy for the whole family and doesn't look half bad either.

ETA: it also makes collecting Japanese beetles a snap, since their defense is to let go of their perch when alarmed, they fall right into a waiting pail with little effort.

View Quote View All Quotes

View All Quotes

Quote History

Quoted:

Quoted:
I really like your arch setup! It also is causing the produce to hang below the leaves, which must make it a lot easier to find it to pick!

Thanks - it's really worked out well for the beans and cucumbers. Does make picking easy for the whole family and doesn't look half bad either.

ETA: it also makes collecting Japanese beetles a snap, since their defense is to let go of their perch when alarmed, they fall right into a waiting pail with little effort.

Okay, you have to do a video or write up a tutorial with photos on exactly how you do that.

Square Foot Gardening is olde. (That's olde with an e, which is ANCIENT) I predict a new book. Arch Gardening with KNJ.

I'm only half kidding. Take a lot of photos. Write it up. Do an ebook. Easy, helpful and potentially profitable.

Posted: 7/26/2015 11:21:05 AM EDT

[#31]

Quote History

Quoted:
KNJ, did you populate the beneficials, or did they happen naturally? I'm a big fan of that, and any kind of insecticide takes them out too.

I'm thinking always rotate that squash--even to another part of the yard if you could. I don't know if that would work, and I know that's a PITA. So glad you haven't been attacked.

View Quote View All Quotes

View All Quotes

Quote History

Quoted:

Quoted:

KNJ, will your wife share her stuffed squash recipe?

If my squash vines make it, I may try that.

I'm also wondering something about your squash vines having grass grown up around them instead of being completely cleaned out. I'm wondering if that doesn't make it a little harder for the SVB moth to get in there to lay her eggs.

I asked the Mrs about the recipe and she said she is "in between" recipes presently - she has been trying a plethora of variations to find one that both kids will readily eat. When (if?!) she nails one down I'll pass it on.
As for the lack of SVB - I have no clue. One of the sets of squash is on the ground and has a fair amount of grass around the perimeter, but the other is in a raised bed (or at least started there!) so its mostly clear underneath. As an aside - I discovered squash reaches a maximum size and then turns into a brick! Was all I could do to saw it into rings to feed to the chickens!
I am really not much for chemical treating, so I've been waiting (and waiting) for the squash to get attacked, wilt and die - but nothing has bothered them this year (so far). Not the case with my rhubarb experiment - it's been pummeled mercilessly. I have seen a sudden spike in "stink bugs" around the garden, so bad bugs are certainly around.
I do think my population of beneficial bugs helps to some degree... I have tons of ladybugs, lacewings and other good guys this year.

KNJ, did you populate the beneficials, or did they happen naturally? I'm a big fan of that, and any kind of insecticide takes them out too.

I'm thinking always rotate that squash--even to another part of the yard if you could. I don't know if that would work, and I know that's a PITA. So glad you haven't been attacked.

All natural.

My perspective of not nuking the garden pests is being thoroughly tested these past two days. Yesterday while in the garden with my littlest, she found a black widow in a corner of the north most bed. I've been teaching both of my kids what they and their webs look like and was very proud that at 3.5 she spotted a suspect web and let me know. Today I found two more in the opposite bed while harvesting carrots.

3 black widows in two days is a troubling trend - though I spent a fair amount of time policing the rest of the garden and did not find any more. I will have to step up my discipline in garden tidiness and keeping the corners clear of plant debris and unwaveringly enforce the "gloves on and hands don't go where they can't be seen" rules. She found it moments after practically crawling under one of the 8'+ squash plants. A few weeks prior my 5 year old found one on his archery target we had just retrieved from the garage.

As for squash rotation - absolutely! And this will be the last year I have them in the raised bed... they run too large and crowd out over half the bed!

Posted: 7/26/2015 11:24:31 AM EDT

[#32]

Quote History

Quoted:
Okay, you have to do a video or write up a tutorial with photos on exactly how you do that.

Square Foot Gardening is olde. (That's olde with an e, which is ANCIENT) I predict a new book. Arch Gardening with KNJ.

I'm only half kidding. Take a lot of photos. Write it up. Do an ebook. Easy, helpful and potentially profitable.

View Quote View All Quotes

View All Quotes

Quote History

Quoted:

Quoted:

I really like your arch setup! It also is causing the produce to hang below the leaves, which must make it a lot easier to find it to pick!

Thanks - it's really worked out well for the beans and cucumbers. Does make picking easy for the whole family and doesn't look half bad either.

ETA: it also makes collecting Japanese beetles a snap, since their defense is to let go of their perch when alarmed, they fall right into a waiting pail with little effort.

Okay, you have to do a video or write up a tutorial with photos on exactly how you do that.

Square Foot Gardening is olde. (That's olde with an e, which is ANCIENT) I predict a new book. Arch Gardening with KNJ.

I'm only half kidding. Take a lot of photos. Write it up. Do an ebook. Easy, helpful and potentially profitable.

You are too kind, but I am just a neophyte at this and am benefiting from a few decent growing seasons - a mild KY spring can make even an idiots garden look good!

It will take a lot more seasons before I would feel comfortable dispensing any novel advice.

Posted: 7/27/2015 12:26:59 PM EDT

[#33]

Quote History

Quoted:

All natural.

My perspective of not nuking the garden pests is being thoroughly tested these past two days. Yesterday while in the garden with my littlest, she found a black widow in a corner of the north most bed. I've been teaching both of my kids what they and their webs look like and was very proud that at 3.5 she spotted a suspect web and let me know. Today I found two more in the opposite bed while harvesting carrots.

3 black widows in two days is a troubling trend - though I spent a fair amount of time policing the rest of the garden and did not find any more. I will have to step up my discipline in garden tidiness and keeping the corners clear of plant debris and unwaveringly enforce the "gloves on and hands don't go where they can't be seen" rules. She found it moments after practically crawling under one of the 8'+ squash plants. A few weeks prior my 5 year old found one on his archery target we had just retrieved from the garage.

As for squash rotation - absolutely! And this will be the last year I have them in the raised bed... they run too large and crowd out over half the bed!

View Quote View All Quotes

View All Quotes

Quote History

Quoted:

Quoted:
KNJ, will your wife share her stuffed squash recipe?

If my squash vines make it, I may try that.

I'm also wondering something about your squash vines having grass grown up around them instead of being completely cleaned out. I'm wondering if that doesn't make it a little harder for the SVB moth to get in there to lay her eggs.

I asked the Mrs about the recipe and she said she is "in between" recipes presently - she has been trying a plethora of variations to find one that both kids will readily eat. When (if?!) she nails one down I'll pass it on.

As for the lack of SVB - I have no clue. One of the sets of squash is on the ground and has a fair amount of grass around the perimeter, but the other is in a raised bed (or at least started there!) so its mostly clear underneath. As an aside - I discovered squash reaches a maximum size and then turns into a brick! Was all I could do to saw it into rings to feed to the chickens!

I am really not much for chemical treating, so I've been waiting (and waiting) for the squash to get attacked, wilt and die - but nothing has bothered them this year (so far). Not the case with my rhubarb experiment - it's been pummeled mercilessly. I have seen a sudden spike in "stink bugs" around the garden, so bad bugs are certainly around.

I do think my population of beneficial bugs helps to some degree... I have tons of ladybugs, lacewings and other good guys this year.

KNJ, did you populate the beneficials, or did they happen naturally? I'm a big fan of that, and any kind of insecticide takes them out too.

I'm thinking always rotate that squash--even to another part of the yard if you could. I don't know if that would work, and I know that's a PITA. So glad you haven't been attacked.

All natural.

My perspective of not nuking the garden pests is being thoroughly tested these past two days. Yesterday while in the garden with my littlest, she found a black widow in a corner of the north most bed. I've been teaching both of my kids what they and their webs look like and was very proud that at 3.5 she spotted a suspect web and let me know. Today I found two more in the opposite bed while harvesting carrots.

3 black widows in two days is a troubling trend - though I spent a fair amount of time policing the rest of the garden and did not find any more. I will have to step up my discipline in garden tidiness and keeping the corners clear of plant debris and unwaveringly enforce the "gloves on and hands don't go where they can't be seen" rules. She found it moments after practically crawling under one of the 8'+ squash plants. A few weeks prior my 5 year old found one on his archery target we had just retrieved from the garage.

As for squash rotation - absolutely! And this will be the last year I have them in the raised bed... they run too large and crowd out over half the bed!

We've found a couple of black widows too, but that's not unusual around this old place. We are, however, overrun with brown recluse this year. It makes me consider selling and building new. They'd arrive eventually but at least we could start on a level playing field.

Posted: 7/27/2015 9:13:10 PM EDT

[#34]

Quote History

Quoted:

We've found a couple of black widows too, but that's not unusual around this old place. We are, however, overrun with brown recluse this year. It makes me consider selling and building new. They'd arrive eventually but at least we could start on a level playing field.

View Quote

No signs of any brown recluse here - yet.

Those would certainly trigger a

response!

In other news, I made my first corn harvest - about a dozen *perfect* ears of Silver Queen Hybrid! So sweet they didn't need any butter or salt. Pulled, grilled in the husk (didn't even have to soak them) and sitting aside a steak within 30 mins. Had extended family in town and was pretty proud of what the garden put on the table every day: tomatoes, cukes, squash, greens, beans, potatoes, onions, peppers, etc. Not to mention fresh eggs.

Looks like I might get another 2 dozen or so ears from my two little rows of 10. No idea what is a good crop for a tiny plot that size, but I'm happy for any first year (no effort) success!

Posted: 7/27/2015 9:44:06 PM EDT

[#35]

Quote History

Quoted:

In other news, I made my first corn harvest - about a dozen *perfect* ears of Silver Queen Hybrid! So sweet they didn't need any butter or salt. Pulled, grilled in the husk (didn't even have to soak them) and sitting aside a steak within 30 mins. Had extended family in town and was pretty proud of what the garden put on the table every day: tomatoes, cukes, squash, greens, beans, potatoes, onions, peppers, etc. Not to mention fresh eggs.

Looks like I might get another 2 dozen or so ears from my two little rows of 10. No idea what is a good crop for a tiny plot that size, but I'm happy for any first year (no effort) success!

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That's a good place to be, congrats

Posted: 7/27/2015 9:49:43 PM EDT

[#36]

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Thanks - it's really worked out well for the beans and cucumbers. Does make picking easy for the whole family and doesn't look half bad either.

ETA: it also makes collecting Japanese beetles a snap, since their defense is to let go of their perch when alarmed, they fall right into a waiting pail with little effort.

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I really like your arch setup! It also is causing the produce to hang below the leaves, which must make it a lot easier to find it to pick!

Thanks - it's really worked out well for the beans and cucumbers. Does make picking easy for the whole family and doesn't look half bad either.

ETA: it also makes collecting Japanese beetles a snap, since their defense is to let go of their perch when alarmed, they fall right into a waiting pail with little effort.

Out of curiosity - have you ever tried feeding the jap beetles to the chickens? I have heard of folks doing that - supposedly the main problem is the chickens get bored with them after a steady diet, so some folks freeze or dry them in quantity for protein supplement year-round. I don't have any chickens so no vested interest; I just like the idea of turning a pest into a food staple for something productive.

Posted: 7/28/2015 2:17:21 AM EDT

[#37]

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No signs of any brown recluse here - yet.

Those would certainly trigger a

response!

In other news, I made my first corn harvest - about a dozen *perfect* ears of Silver Queen Hybrid! So sweet they didn't need any butter or salt. Pulled, grilled in the husk (didn't even have to soak them) and sitting aside a steak within 30 mins. Had extended family in town and was pretty proud of what the garden put on the table every day: tomatoes, cukes, squash, greens, beans, potatoes, onions, peppers, etc. Not to mention fresh eggs.

Looks like I might get another 2 dozen or so ears from my two little rows of 10. No idea what is a good crop for a tiny plot that size, but I'm happy for any first year (no effort) success!

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We've found a couple of black widows too, but that's not unusual around this old place. We are, however, overrun with brown recluse this year. It makes me consider selling and building new. They'd arrive eventually but at least we could start on a level playing field.

No signs of any brown recluse here - yet.

Those would certainly trigger a

response!

In other news, I made my first corn harvest - about a dozen *perfect* ears of Silver Queen Hybrid! So sweet they didn't need any butter or salt. Pulled, grilled in the husk (didn't even have to soak them) and sitting aside a steak within 30 mins. Had extended family in town and was pretty proud of what the garden put on the table every day: tomatoes, cukes, squash, greens, beans, potatoes, onions, peppers, etc. Not to mention fresh eggs.

Looks like I might get another 2 dozen or so ears from my two little rows of 10. No idea what is a good crop for a tiny plot that size, but I'm happy for any first year (no effort) success!

Who cares what the crop SHOULD be? Yours has given above and beyond.

That is awesome.

Posted: 7/28/2015 2:23:59 AM EDT

[#38]

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Out of curiosity - have you ever tried feeding the jap beetles to the chickens? I have heard of folks doing that - supposedly the main problem is the chickens get bored with them after a steady diet, so some folks freeze or dry them in quantity for protein supplement year-round. I don't have any chickens so no vested interest; I just like the idea of turning a pest into a food staple for something productive.

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Quoted:

Quoted:
I really like your arch setup! It also is causing the produce to hang below the leaves, which must make it a lot easier to find it to pick!

Thanks - it's really worked out well for the beans and cucumbers. Does make picking easy for the whole family and doesn't look half bad either.

ETA: it also makes collecting Japanese beetles a snap, since their defense is to let go of their perch when alarmed, they fall right into a waiting pail with little effort.

Out of curiosity - have you ever tried feeding the jap beetles to the chickens? I have heard of folks doing that - supposedly the main problem is the chickens get bored with them after a steady diet, so some folks freeze or dry them in quantity for protein supplement year-round. I don't have any chickens so no vested interest; I just like the idea of turning a pest into a food staple for something productive.

I have never seen chickens get bored with bugs. But if the bugs don't taste good, that could be an issue. I HAVE seen chickens walk away from
bugs that don't taste good. I think if you had many many Japanese beetles to freeze and many many chickens to devour them, this might be worthwhile.

For me, at a small homestead level, I would never do it.

Very interesting possibility though.

You know..just like how the Great Depression created a "save everything including bits of string" mentality, I believe each era produces its own sensibility when it comes to this sort of thing.
I wonder what old timers would do with this.

Posted: 7/28/2015 7:07:06 AM EDT

[#39]

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That's a good place to be, congrats

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In other news, I made my first corn harvest - about a dozen *perfect* ears of Silver Queen Hybrid! So sweet they didn't need any butter or salt. Pulled, grilled in the husk (didn't even have to soak them) and sitting aside a steak within 30 mins. Had extended family in town and was pretty proud of what the garden put on the table every day: tomatoes, cukes, squash, greens, beans, potatoes, onions, peppers, etc. Not to mention fresh eggs.

Looks like I might get another 2 dozen or so ears from my two little rows of 10. No idea what is a good crop for a tiny plot that size, but I'm happy for any first year (no effort) success!

That's a good place to be, congrats

Agreed, and thanks!

Posted: 7/28/2015 7:13:22 AM EDT

[#40]

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Quoted:
Out of curiosity - have you ever tried feeding the jap beetles to the chickens? I have heard of folks doing that - supposedly the main problem is the chickens get bored with them after a steady diet, so some folks freeze or dry them in quantity for protein supplement year-round. I don't have any chickens so no vested interest; I just like the idea of turning a pest into a food staple for something productive.

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Quoted:

Quoted:

I really like your arch setup! It also is causing the produce to hang below the leaves, which must make it a lot easier to find it to pick!

Thanks - it's really worked out well for the beans and cucumbers. Does make picking easy for the whole family and doesn't look half bad either.

ETA: it also makes collecting Japanese beetles a snap, since their defense is to let go of their perch when alarmed, they fall right into a waiting pail with little effort.

Out of curiosity - have you ever tried feeding the jap beetles to the chickens? I have heard of folks doing that - supposedly the main problem is the chickens get bored with them after a steady diet, so some folks freeze or dry them in quantity for protein supplement year-round. I don't have any chickens so no vested interest; I just like the idea of turning a pest into a food staple for something productive.

I haven't tried yet, but I will.

[ARCHIVED THREAD] - KNJ's 2015 Garden (Page 2 of 2)

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