Our backyard isn't as lush as it normally is, since we haven't had rain for literally weeks (until yesterday!) But we still have some good things going on. We planted grapevines several years ago, not with any grand intentions, just because it seemed to be the "homesteading" thing to do. Well, this year it paid off in the form of a much enjoyed cup of homemade grape juice for the little babe. The grapevines are in "her" garden area. Last year the grapes didn't do much, but this year we've noticed the chipmunks and catbirds going to town. I though she probably had enough to make grape juice, so we gave it a try. Picked, washed, mashed, simmered, strained, and enjoyed!
Last year I saved the seeds from my poppy flowers and we had enough for several different patches. It looks like next year, we'll have even more! I love the unique shape and texture of the seed pods. Crushing them to get the seeds was such a tactile experience!
I have a couple of lovely pale orange squash. The full name is Galeux D'Eysines. They get brown warty spots on them (again, a tactile thing!) and are supposedly very yummy in soups or baking. I just like how they look! The little babe was worried about the spots, but I told her that's just how they're supposed to be.
The gardening season is coming into full swing for some crops and winding down for others. I have already planted my fall carrots and lettuce. The tomatoes are continuing and peppers are just changing color. My zucchini plant currently has 3 fruits about to pick - it really only started when I got back from vacation and hit the watering hard. And I have sunflowers!! A small patch, about 12 plants, but that is more than last year, so hip hip hooray! I managed to outsmart the chipmunks. I started the seeds in small pots in a "cold frame" - a large Tupperware bin covered by an old window, then just window screen. Then when I transplanted them, I took plastic nursery pots, turned them upside down (so wide end was on the ground), and cut a hole in the bottom. This collar apparently was too much work for the chipmunks. I learn something new every year!