Category Archives: garden

4.3.12 Spring-dug leeks, carrots and parsnips

Posted on April 3, 2012 by diary of a tomato

We’ve begun to clear the beds in preparation for new planting, and pulled the last of the over-wintered leeks. These are of the King Seig variety, which proved true their reputation for hardiness and good storing capability. The parsnips were … Continue reading →

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3.28.12 Hailstorm

Posted on March 28, 2012 by diary of a tomato

As I was checking the weather report, it started hailing. A burst of sunshine immediately followed, evaporating the fallen hail in an instant. Snow showers possible tomorrow.

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3.26.12 Phenology, or the Art of Observation

Posted on March 26, 2012 by diary of a tomato

Phenology is new to me, and my knowledge of it is only superficial. However, I like the idea of having a larger context for understanding plant life cycles and the seasonal changes that occur with climatic variations. With the dramatic shifts … Continue reading →

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3.21.12 Seedlings

Posted on March 21, 2012 by diary of a tomato

It’s always a gratifying surprise to watch seedlings come up, each shoot the embodiment of optimism. These Aprile pomodorini seedlings are from seeds saved last fall. Differing germination rates for fennel and leeks: the Finale fennel (top left) germinated before … Continue reading →

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3.20.12 Spring Equinox

Posted on March 20, 2012 by diary of a tomato

The weather in Maine is well known for its capriciousness and changeability, but things seem to have taken a turn for the extreme lately. The events of the past ten days include snow, a microburst, an electrical storm, and record-breaking high … Continue reading →

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3.10.12 Unexpected snowfall

Posted on March 14, 2012 by diary of a tomato

This one snuck up on us. We awoke to more snow than was predicted. It was still snowing when we left the house but, by afternoon most of it had evaporated.

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3.8.12 Overwintered kale and chard

Posted on March 12, 2012 by diary of a tomato

One of the benefits of overwintered kale are the sweet florets they produce. The chard has revived and is sending out lots of healthy new growth. The garlic shoots are poking through at least two weeks earlier than usual. Found … Continue reading →

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