june 2010 goat cheese, eggs, and strawberries
early june 2010 bounty
As much as we’d like to think we can control all the aspects of our gardens – heirloom varieties, organic seeds, natural pest control, cold frames, etc, we can not control the weather. It has been a long, cold spring and the garden is reflecting its struggle in the lack of output. Although frustration is high on many garden fronts this year, don’t fret. The garden always seems to rebound when we least expect it.
Keep at it!
Take the time now while the harvest is lean to prepare for the busy season. Erradicate weeds and pests by spending 5 minutes a day in the garden. Get your canning kitchen together by sorting chipped jars, bent/rusted rings out of the mix. Dedicate a shelf or a rolling cart to all the supplies you will need for preservation – undate your pectin supply, vinegars, dried herbs and chile peppers, lemon juice, and recipes. Purchase new canning lids, marking pens, and check your freezer container supply. Clean out the freezer and resort your canning pantry to evaluate what you will need to can more of this year. Check for any jars that have spoiled and dispose of them properly. Thoroughly clean all shelving, your canners, jars, rings, and canning utensils.
The garden will catch up and being prepared for it when it does will enable you to better preserve your bounty. Share your time and harvest with friends by planning a jam, pie filling, or pickling party! One of the greatest things about gardens is their ability to bring gardeners together around a table of delicious food.
