tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26705219835837540952024-02-19T06:20:31.582-06:00ORGANIC IN ST. LOUISTrillium Our woods 2011Sheepishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06867642244105284992noreply@blogger.comBlogger77125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670521983583754095.post-8153182964879601292017-05-03T10:32:00.000-05:002017-05-03T10:32:05.165-05:00IT TASTES GREEN<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;"> Years ago on an internet group we were having a discussion on gardening which led to a discussion about bean growing. I wrote in that I didn't care for yellow wax beans because they didn't have that great green taste. I was immediately inundated by questions about what green tastes like. This was my reply:</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;"> Okay here is a lesson in green
taste. You know the<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;"> smell that you smell when you
mow the lawn or and<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;"> alfalfa field is fresh
cut.....That is not how it<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;"> tastes but it is close....You
know how clover smells<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;"> so clean and soft. It taste a little like that.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;"> You see,
the smell of yellow is warm, like buttery<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;"> carrots or squash. You could say they smelled clean<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;"> and fresh or corn on the cob
yellow. That is warm<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;"> and soft and when your lips
touch those kernels you<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;"> start salivating before you
even bite in.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;"> Have a green bean just barely
steamed no butter or<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;"> salt, just naked, put it in
your mouth, you have to<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;"> chew it, when it touches the
back of your tongue it<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;"> has a cool taste, you remember
the fresh cut grass.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;"> Now the green of asparagus,
nope, that is an earthy<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;"> green. It is sort of like a
green bean soaked in dirt. You<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;"> know army green, but it still
has that green taste.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;"> Take white asparagus, you
expect that it will taste<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;"> the same but someone took the
green out, the same<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;"> goes for the wax beans, they
are a green bean want to<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">
be.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;"> The Brassica family are green
too but they have an<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;"> aged taste. They didn't grow fast enough to have<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;"> that cool green taste. Dark
broccoli just tries to put <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;"> on a green show but he took so
long to get<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;"> all that color that he just
plain soured along the<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;"> way.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;"> There’s cauliflower, it is a
want to be too, but it stays<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;"> out of the sun so it won't
color up and what kind of<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;"> taste is it left with, nada, no
green<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;"> Now we come to Limes!! That is
a green of another<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;"> color. You can taste that cool but it is like green
on<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;"> steroids. The comparison goes further, you have yellow<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;"> lemons, they are a lime want
to be. They think<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;"> their larger size will make up
for the lack of green<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;"> taste. They think if they hype the bite that they<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;"> will reign supreme. No way jose'.
Lime green is a<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;"> special green.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;"> Now you know how green tastes.</span><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">This is our growing season. If it will stop raining maybe I can plant some green beans.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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A Blog mostly about quilting and sewing, but you'll find recipes and gardening too.</div>
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Sheepishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06867642244105284992noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670521983583754095.post-64216150926789038512016-03-01T12:59:00.000-06:002016-03-01T12:59:13.574-06:00BROCCOLI & CABBAGE<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
This is a blog about starting seeds (not proofing them). I begin with a ditty that isn't very witty.</div>
<br />
Gardening, in retrospect,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Scary thoughts, oh heck,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Nothing planted since last year,<br />
This is a disaster, I fear.<br />
<br />
No planting green veggie plants,<br />
Because of ground hogs, we can't,<br />
They hide and patiently in wait,<br />
For the delicacy, better than cake.<br />
<br />
The Broccoli, almost ready for harvest,<br />
They think we've made a personal request,<br />
During the early morning hours,<br />
They've scheduled their time to devour,<br />
<br />
The Vegetable we love best.<br />
<br />
We are getting ready finally to garden, or try. We are very late so we will not be proofing the brassicas seeds. We are going to take pot luck and place several seeds in each container. If they grow they grow. We start our seeds in an "incubator". Then we trans plant them into small pots.<br />
<br />
The following blogs are what we do every year to get our plants growing and ready for the garden. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://organicinstlouis.blogspot.com/2013/02/broccoli.html">http://organicinstlouis.blogspot.com/2013/02/broccoli.html</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://organicinstlouis.blogspot.com/2012/02/cabbage-and-broccoli-on-move.html">http://organicinstlouis.blogspot.com/2012/02/cabbage-and-broccoli-on-move.html</a><br />
<a href="https://www.blogger.com/goog_706676943"><br /></a>
<a href="http://organicinstlouis.blogspot.com/2012/02/seeds-sprouted.html">http://organicinstlouis.blogspot.com/2012/02/seeds-sprouted.html</a><br />
<br />
Now for the incubator. It is a simple affair using a Styrofoam box, a yogurt maker, piece of cardboard, a thermometer of some kind (I use an old outdoor one.) I find the yogurt makers at the resale shops. They have become scarce the last couple of year. I guess, the making yogurt has gone out of fashion.<br />
<br />
Cut a hole in the side of the box at the base. This is for the plug from the yogurt making to go through. Put the yogurt maker inside (without its lid) you only need the bottom part of the maker with the heating element in it. <br />
<br />
Now cut your cardboard the size you need to lay on top of the yogurt maker (fit it side to side and end to end in the Styrofoam box, on top the yogurt maker. The cardboard is cut the size of the interior and then you cut slots about 1/2 inch wide cut in it (this is to let the warmth rise into the chamber). It is the shelf to place your plant containers on. <br />
<br />
Place a thermometer in it (not over a vent hole) and turn it on. Put the lid on tight, give it a couple of hours to warm up and then check the temperature. You want it to hover around 80 degrees. If it is higher open the lid a half inch and check it in two hours. fiddle with the lid until you know how your incubator holds the heat. You might want to open the lid even wider if it stays too warm.<br />
<br />
Hopefully this will be a year we put supper on the table. <br />
I love cooking from the cabinet loaded with items we have grown.<br />
<br />
<br />
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<a href="http://glosgarden.blogspot.com/" style="color: #7ca19c; line-height: 18.48px; text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #a808b3;"><span style="font-size: small;">http://glosgarden.blogspot.com/</span></span></a></div>
<div align="center" style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.48px;">
Where I have stories of my cats and other pets</div>
<div align="center" class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.48px;">
a blog about my courtship with my husband,</div>
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and a blog about my most embarrassing moment.</div>
<div align="center" class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.48px;">
A "Soap box" blog where I do air my opinions.</div>
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<span style="line-height: 18.48px;"><a href="http://pitbulladog.blogspot.com/" style="color: #7ca19c; text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-size: small;">http://pitbulladog.blogspot.com/</span></a></span></div>
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Blogs about our pair of pitbulls.</div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 18.48px;"><a href="http://gloriouscreations.blogspot.com/" style="color: #3778cd; text-decoration: none;">http://gloriouscreations.blogspot.com/</a></span></span></div>
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A Blog mostly about quilting and sewing, but you'll find recipes and gardening too.</div>
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All recipes, pictures, and writings are my own.</div>
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<br />Sheepishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06867642244105284992noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670521983583754095.post-33883395994076810852016-02-29T08:57:00.000-06:002016-03-10T09:23:37.138-06:00PROOFING BEAN SEED 2016It has been since May 21, 2015 that I last posted. We didn't have a garden the last two years. There were several reasons. The main one was we had a "hoard" of ground hogs move in. They were extremely smart and thwarted all our methods to capture them. We have a dog which has helped dispatch a couple of them and are hoping this will give us a window in time to garden. <br />
<br />
First up for gardening is proofing all the old seeds. We want to see if we need to order new replacements or if we will be able to use what we have. Here are two blogs on the subject:<br />
<br />
Proofing from another year<br />
<a href="http://organicinstlouis.blogspot.com/2013/02/proofing-seeds.html">http://organicinstlouis.blogspot.com/2013/02/proofing-seeds.html</a><br />
<br />
Blog about our favorite bean. We are worried this year we won't have viable seed.<br />
<a href="http://organicinstlouis.blogspot.com/2011/09/searching-for-spartan-arrow-green-beans.html">http://organicinstlouis.blogspot.com/2011/09/searching-for-spartan-arrow-green-beans.html</a><br />
<br />
My excitement for gardening was rewarded when I checked the incubator on the 27th to see if the beans were showing any sign of germination. WOW....not only were the seeds germinating, but they were all ready at 60 -80 percent germination. Yesterday this was the results. I am so pleased. <br />
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<b><u><span style="font-size: 18.0pt;">BEANS AND PEAS</span></u></b><u><span style="font-size: 18.0pt;"> </span></u><u><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">FEBRUARY 24, 2016 PROOFED<o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“R” SPARTAN ARROW BUSH BEAN <b>2010 RISPENS SEEDS</b> (PR 10)<span style="color: red;"> 2/28 (10)</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“RA”
2012 ORGANIC FROM US, OP 2012 (PR 10)<span style="color: red;"> 2/28 (10)</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“RB” “
“ “ “
(PR 10) <span style="color: red;">2/28(10)</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“RC”
2010 OUT OF 3 LB BAG (PR 10) <o:p></o:p></span><span style="color: red; font-size: 18.6667px;">2/28(10)</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><span style="color: magenta;">“Z”
JADE GREEN BUSH BEAN<b> PINETREE 2010 </b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><span style="color: magenta;"> (PR
10)<span style="color: red;"> 2/28 (1) (ROTTED) TRASHED</span></span><b><o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-right: -81.0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“E”
PEAS DWARF GRAY SUGAR <b>2008 100%, 2010
100%, </b>(PR 10) <span style="color: red;">2/28/16 (8)</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-right: -81.0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“A”
SUGAR SNAP PEA <b>2013 GURNEYS </b>(PR 10)<span style="color: red;"> 2/28 (9)</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-right: -81.0pt;">
<st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“J”</span></st1:placename><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;"> <st1:placetype w:st="on">GARDEN</st1:placetype></span></st1:place><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;"> PEA <b>2010
SHUMWAY </b>(PR 10)<span style="color: red;"> 2/28 (8)</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“D”
SUPER SUGAR SNAP <b>PINETREE 2010 </b>(PR
10) <span style="color: red;">2/28 (8)</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><span style="color: red; font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="font-size: medium;">The proofing of seeds tells me a couple of things:</span></b><span style="font-size: 14pt;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">One my storage of them must have been optimum (the seed is very old for bean seed)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;">Some sources say 3 years and some say 5 years).</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br />The seed quality from the producers are very good.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 14pt;">The proofing of seeds also tells you how long each variety will take to sprout in the</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 14pt;">garden. Remember you have to take in to account the temperatures and the weather. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 14pt;">When proofing you may get 100% germination but the outside planting conditions </span><br />
<span style="font-size: 14pt;">may inhibit the germination of the seed. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 18.6667px;">Googled and found the following info on germination times:</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 15.6px;">Propagate by </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 15.6px;">seed</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 15.6px;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 15.6px;">- Do not start</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 15.6px;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 15.6px;">seeds</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 15.6px;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 15.6px;">inside.</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 15.6px;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 15.6px;">Beans</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 15.6px;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 15.6px;">do not like to be transplanted.</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 15.6px;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 15.6px;">Germination</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 15.6px;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 15.6px;">temperature: 70 F to 80 F -</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 15.6px;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 15.6px;">Germination</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 15.6px;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 15.6px;">is slow </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 15.6px;">and poor when soil temperatures are below 60 F.</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 15.6px;"> </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 15.6px;">Days</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 15.6px;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 15.6px;">to emergence: 8 to 10 -</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 15.6px;">Germination</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 15.6px;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 15.6px;">may take two weeks or more if soil temperatures are below 60 F.</span></div>
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From Cornell edu </div>
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<br /></div>
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Take time to test your seeds and possibly save some money because you won't have to buy new. </div>
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<br /></div>
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Off to proof some tomato and pepper seeds.</div>
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<br /></div>
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Where I have stories of my cats and other pets</div>
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a blog about my courtship with my husband,</div>
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and a blog about my most embarrassing moment.</div>
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A "Soap box" blog where I do air my opinions.</div>
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Blogs about our pair of pitbulls.</div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="line-height: 18.48px;"><a href="http://gloriouscreations.blogspot.com/" style="color: #3778cd;">http://gloriouscreations.blogspot.com/</a></span></span></div>
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A Blog mostly about quilting and sewing, but you'll find recipes and gardening too.</div>
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All recipes, pictures, and writings are my own.</div>
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Sheepishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06867642244105284992noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670521983583754095.post-16030567254403631212015-05-21T13:46:00.000-05:002015-05-21T13:46:56.049-05:00HE'S BACK!<div style="text-align: center;">
He's returned. He only visited for 3 days last year. It was the first time we had ever seen a bird like him in Missouri. While he was here last year I was able to snap these pictures:</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://organicinstlouis.blogspot.com/2011/05/bird-feeder-visitor.html">http://organicinstlouis.blogspot.com/2011/05/bird-feeder-visitor.html</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I had requested if anyone knew who he was, please let me know. I went agoogling and found what I thought was him. I am sure now he is not what I called him. My best clue was he has a top knot he raises and lowers like the Phoebe does. My second clue was the wing bars. I have now found him and found out he isn't out of his territory. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
He is a Great Crested Flycatcher.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Great_Crested_Flycatcher/id">http://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Great_Crested_Flycatcher/id</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It amazes me I have not crossed paths with this bird. I have been watching the birds since 1963.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It was so nice to see him on this cold May day in Missouri.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
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<a href="http://glosgarden.blogspot.com/" style="color: #7ca19c; line-height: 18.4799995422363px; text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #a808b3;"><span style="font-size: large;">http://glosgarden.blogspot.com/</span></span></a></div>
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Where I have stories of my cats and other pets</div>
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a blog about my courtship with my husband,</div>
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and a blog about my most embarrassing moment.</div>
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A "Soap box" blog where I do air my opinions.</div>
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Blogs about our pair of pitbulls.</div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 18.4799995422363px;"><a href="http://gloriouscreations.blogspot.com/">http://gloriouscreations.blogspot.com/</a></span></span></div>
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A Blog mostly about quilting and sewing, but you'll find recipes and gardening too.</div>
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All recipes, pictures, and writings are my own.</div>
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Sheepishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06867642244105284992noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670521983583754095.post-38572507790019567022015-04-18T15:55:00.002-05:002015-04-18T15:56:40.042-05:00GREEN HOUSE OCCUPANTS<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in -1in 0.0001pt -63pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Spring is finally here for us. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in -1in 0.0001pt -63pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">I have been traveling and it seems the weekends </span><span style="font-size: 14pt;">I am home </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in -1in 0.0001pt -63pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;">are deluged by rain. </span><span style="font-size: 14pt;">This is the first weekend we've had to do </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in -1in 0.0001pt -63pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;">anything outside. </span><span style="font-size: 14pt;">So it is hurry up to beat...you guessed it</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in -1in 0.0001pt -63pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;">THE RAIN! We are mowing the upper and lower pastures.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in -1in 0.0001pt -63pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 18.6666660308838px;">I sure miss the sheep, goats and cows doing it for me.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 18.6666660308838px;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in -1in 0.0001pt -63pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 18.6666660308838px;">When my back gets too tired of riding the mower I graduate</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in -1in 0.0001pt -63pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 18.6666660308838px;">to working in the green house. It is mundane work, weeding </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in -1in 0.0001pt -63pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 18.6666660308838px;">and mixing dirt to go in the beds. The only thing we have </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in -1in 0.0001pt -63pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 18.6666660308838px;">right now is Chard and Raspberry plants which need to </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in -1in 0.0001pt -63pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 18.6666660308838px;">find a home outside. It is already getting too hot for early </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in -1in 0.0001pt -63pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 18.6666660308838px;">things like lettuce and peas.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in -1in 0.0001pt -63pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 18.6666660308838px;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in -1in 0.0001pt -63pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 18.6666660308838px;">This morning while rousting out the weeds I dug up the nicest</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in -1in 0.0001pt -63pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 18.6666660308838px;">nightcrawlers. Then who should come hoping out from under</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in -1in 0.0001pt -63pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 18.6666660308838px;">a chard leaf, and adorable brown and beige toad. He was about</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 18.6666660308838px;">the size of a fifty cent piece (do those still exist?). </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 18.6666660308838px;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in -1in 0.0001pt -63pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 18.6666660308838px;">I had several Mouse tunnels I had to collapse. It looks like the </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 18.6666660308838px;">cats need to get to work. Either that or we have one very busy mouse.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 18.6666660308838px;">He seems to have tunneled in every bed. The good thing,</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in -1in 0.0001pt -63pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 18.6666660308838px;">there doesn't seem to be any moles hiding, waiting to</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in -1in 0.0001pt -63pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 18.6666660308838px;">lunch on the roots of my plants.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 18.6666660308838px;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 18.6666660308838px;"> I've come in for some rest and refreshment, and a change of clothes.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in -1in 0.0001pt -63pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 18.6666660308838px;">It's a necessary thing. We are also deluged with ticks, </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 18.6666660308838px;">all kinds and sizes. </span><span style="font-size: 18.6666660308838px;">I detest the little seed ticks! (If you get seed </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in -1in 0.0001pt -63pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 18.6666660308838px;">ticks on you grab the clear wide packing tape. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 18.6666660308838px;">They stick to it real well.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 18.6666660308838px;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 18.6666660308838px;">I hope you aren't bored, my mind thinks in prose.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 18.6666660308838px;">Here is a poem, green house inhabitants inspired.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;">A toad is hopping in my house,</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Perusing tunnels made by a mouse,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">He thinks it is a space for him,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Built by humans, on a whim.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Sometimes he lurks beneath the green,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Hoping he is not readily seen,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">He watches for the occasional fly,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Hoping one or two, will come by.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">If lunch isn't</span><span style="font-size: 14pt;"> whizzing by,</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">He ventures out beneath the sky,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Seeking insects which delight,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">In eating all the green in sight.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Guarding, protecting, throughout the day,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Quietly waiting with nothing to say,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">For the unsuspecting visitor to meet,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">To be his dinner, a gourmet treat.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Our green house is a happy home,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Where toads, frogs and snakes do roam,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">The mice and sometimes little voles,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Run in and out, through minute holes.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Our little brown toad reigns supreme,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Guarding all around him, which is green,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">He knows the cats won’t bother him,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Because he tastes really grim.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">We hope your garden is blooming, not a bloomin garden. BTW,</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Gardening is extremely hard in the later years. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Don't ask me how I know.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Foot Note: Our Pit Bull, Boychik, dispatched a ground hog for us!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Happy gardening.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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Other blogs by me:</div>
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<a href="http://glosgarden.blogspot.com/" style="color: #7ca19c; line-height: 18.4799995422363px; text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #a808b3;"><span style="font-size: large;">http://glosgarden.blogspot.com/</span></span></a></div>
<div align="center" style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4799995422363px; text-align: center;">
Where I have stories of my cats and other pets</div>
<div align="center" class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; line-height: 18.4799995422363px; text-align: center;">
a blog about my courtship with my husband,</div>
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and a blog about my most embarrassing moment.</div>
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A "Soap box" blog where I do air my opinions.</div>
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<br /></div>
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</div>
<div align="center" style="color: #333333; line-height: 16.2288017272949px;">
<a href="http://gloriouscreations.blogspot.com/" style="color: #4d469c; text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-size: large;">http://gloriouscreations.blogspot.com</span></a></div>
<div align="center" style="color: #333333; line-height: 16.2288017272949px;">
A blog mostly about quilting,<br />
cooking, poetry, prose and a little gardening,<br />
Tutorial on how to make 5 panel Boxer Shorts.<br />
<span style="color: red;">Check out "A MYSTERY IN THE MAKING"</span><br />
<span style="color: red;">A mystery quilt designed with the novice in mind.</span><span style="color: red;"> </span></div>
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<span style="color: red;"> </span><a href="http://gloriouscreations.blogspot.com/2013/07/a-mystery-in-making.html" style="color: #163316; text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #627349;">http://gloriouscreations.blogspot.com/2013/07/a-mystery-in-making.html</span></a></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="line-height: 18.4799995422363px;"><a href="http://pitbulladog.blogspot.com/" style="color: #7ca19c; text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-size: large;">http://pitbulladog.blogspot.com/</span></a></span></div>
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Blogs about our pair of pitbulls.</div>
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<br /></div>
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All recipes, pictures, and writings are my own.</div>
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I give credit for items which belong to other people in my blogs .</div>
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Please do not copy without permission </div>
Sheepishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06867642244105284992noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670521983583754095.post-89217357362262906002014-04-06T10:10:00.000-05:002014-04-06T10:10:49.471-05:00FARM TO TABLE: RECIPES<div style="text-align: center;">
There is lots of farm to table talk. It is usually in reference to buying your foods from local resources . You can't get more direct to table than growing it yourself. My Blog offers hints on raising the veggies and there are also recipes stuck between the hints. I also have recipes in my sewing/quilting blog, after all we do get hungry doing those activities. </div>
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</div>
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I haven't added recipes lately, so I thought it would be nice to make a list of the ones I do have. Some of these are easy, less than 30 minutes. Others take more time. All are favorites in our house.</div>
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</div>
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Some of the recipes I obtained from other sources. They are given credit where credit is due. </div>
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The rest are recipes of my own. </div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">SOUPS</span></div>
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This is definitely a winter soup. If you are suffering from the flu or cold it has all the ingredients to soothe the flu beast if you make it with chicken broth.</div>
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<a href="http://organicinstlouis.blogspot.com/2010/01/garlic-enough-to-keep-vampires-away.html">http://organicinstlouis.blogspot.com/2010/01/garlic-enough-to-keep-vampires-away.html</a></div>
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</div>
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<a href="http://organicinstlouis.blogspot.com/2013/01/broccoli-soup.html">http://organicinstlouis.blogspot.com/2013/01/broccoli-soup.html</a></div>
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</div>
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<a href="http://organicinstlouis.blogspot.com/2010/01/cucumbers-when-they-arent-cool.html">http://organicinstlouis.blogspot.com/2010/01/cucumbers-when-they-arent-cool.html</a></div>
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</div>
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<a href="http://gloriouscreations.blogspot.com/2008/09/it-takes-tomatoes-to-make-tomato-soup.html">http://gloriouscreations.blogspot.com/2008/09/it-takes-tomatoes-to-make-tomato-soup.html</a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">BREAD BAKING</span></div>
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<a href="http://organicinstlouis.blogspot.com/2009/03/cooking-from-your-garden-can-be-year.html">http://organicinstlouis.blogspot.com/2009/03/cooking-from-your-garden-can-be-year.html</a></div>
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<a href="http://gloriouscreations.blogspot.com/2011/05/cinnamon-rolls-from-challah.html">http://gloriouscreations.blogspot.com/2011/05/cinnamon-rolls-from-challah.html</a></div>
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</div>
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<a href="http://gloriouscreations.blogspot.com/2011/05/challah-made-easy.html">http://gloriouscreations.blogspot.com/2011/05/challah-made-easy.html</a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">PASTA</span></div>
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<a href="http://organicinstlouis.blogspot.com/2011/01/supper-surprise.html">http://organicinstlouis.blogspot.com/2011/01/supper-surprise.html</a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">VEGETABLES</span></div>
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<a href="http://organicinstlouis.blogspot.com/2012/02/cucumbers-not-just-for-salads.html">http://organicinstlouis.blogspot.com/2012/02/cucumbers-not-just-for-salads.html</a></div>
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</div>
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<a href="http://gloriouscreations.blogspot.com/2008/10/eggplant-secret-ingredient.html">http://gloriouscreations.blogspot.com/2008/10/eggplant-secret-ingredient.html</a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">NATURE'S BEANO</span></div>
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It really works</div>
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<a href="http://organicinstlouis.blogspot.com/2012/05/epazote-natures-beano.html">http://organicinstlouis.blogspot.com/2012/05/epazote-natures-beano.html</a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">DESSERTS</span></div>
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Not Gluten free</div>
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<a href="http://gloriouscreations.blogspot.com/2011/12/cookies-cookies-and-more.html">http://gloriouscreations.blogspot.com/2011/12/cookies-cookies-and-more.html</a></div>
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<a href="http://gloriouscreations.blogspot.com/2010/12/cookie-time-is-all-time.html">http://gloriouscreations.blogspot.com/2010/12/cookie-time-is-all-time.html</a></div>
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<a href="http://gloriouscreations.blogspot.com/2009/12/always-season-for-cookies.html">http://gloriouscreations.blogspot.com/2009/12/always-season-for-cookies.html</a></div>
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<a href="http://gloriouscreations.blogspot.com/2010/01/chocolate-cake-3-way-delight.html">http://gloriouscreations.blogspot.com/2010/01/chocolate-cake-3-way-delight.html</a></div>
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<a href="http://gloriouscreations.blogspot.com/2008/12/need-some-chocolate-indulgence-today.html">http://gloriouscreations.blogspot.com/2008/12/need-some-chocolate-indulgence-today.html</a></div>
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I can't wait to garden, hopefully it won't be filled with blasphemy from visitations of ground hogs.</div>
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Happy Spring.</div>
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<a href="http://gloriouscreations.blogspot.com/" style="background-color: white; color: #4d469c;"><span style="font-size: large;">http://gloriouscreations.blogspot.com</span></a></div>
<div align="center">
<span style="background-color: white;">A blog mostly about quilting, </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">cooking, poetry, prose and a little gardening,</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"> tutorial on how to make 5 panel Boxer Shorts.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: medium;"> <span style="color: red;">Check out "A MYSTERY IN THE MAKING"</span></span><br />
<span style="color: red;">A mystery quilt designed with the novice in mind. </span><br />
<a href="http://gloriouscreations.blogspot.com/2013/07/a-mystery-in-making.html"><span style="color: #627349;">http://gloriouscreations.blogspot.com/2013/07/a-mystery-in-making.html</span></a></div>
<div align="center">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: red; font-size: x-small;"></span></span><br />
<span style="color: red;"></span><br />
<a href="http://glosgarden.blogspot.com/" style="color: #4d469c;"><span style="color: purple;"><span style="font-size: large;">http://glosgarden.blogspot.com/</span></span></a><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">Not a garden blog. </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">There are articles which have nothing to do </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">with creating or gardening. </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">There are blogs on the new born baby kittens </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">we found and mothered. </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">It is a blog where I voice my opinions which will always be environmentally friendly.</span></div>
<div style="color: black; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #4c1130;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #cc0000;"><span style="color: red;"><span style="font-size: small;">As always, any pictures or writings are my own.</span></span></span></span></div>
<div align="center">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: red;"><span style="color: #4c1130;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #cc0000;">Credit has been given to contributions not my own.</span></span></span><br /><span style="color: red;">Please do not</span><span style="color: red;"><span style="color: #4c1130;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #cc0000;"> use without permission.</span></span></span></span></div>
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</div>
Sheepishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06867642244105284992noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670521983583754095.post-90498921256751098712013-08-07T08:48:00.001-05:002013-08-27T08:17:07.716-05:00BLACKBERRIES, A KITCHEN AID<div align="center">
This is not an article about raising blackberries, nor is it about cooking with them. There are lots of articles on the internet sharing that information with you. It is also not about using a "Kitchen Aid" brand mixer, although I am the proud owner of one of those since 1981. </div>
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It is an article about using the berry's remains when you think they are ready for the compost pile.</div>
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There is an attachment for your "Kitchen Aid" which would be a help with your black berries. They have a sieve which fits inside your bowl with a wooden beater which fits in it. This is great for removing the seeds and peelings from the blackberries. If you don't have a "Kitchen Aid" there are very good counter parts. My favorite is the cone shape colander. I call it my "China Man". It has a wooden "rolling pin" to mash the contents in its cone. Second best is a "Foley Mill". For me, the seeds always get stuck under the plate of this kitchen appliance. </div>
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We do not like the seeds in the berries so the above equipment is of supreme importance in our house. Now for the purpose of this blog:</div>
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1. When you are looking at the bowl of seeds and peelings, reconstitute them before destroying them. Add water to them till, when you stir they move around (you don't want to float them, you want them about the consistency of boxed pudding when it is cooked and ready to pour into bowls (thinner than cooked oatmeal, thicker than cream gravy). Heat this to almost simmering, <u><strong>stirring constantly</strong></u> (I use a silicone spatula ). This is very important, the contents will scorch and scorch very quickly. </div>
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When you are finished put the seeds back in your "China man" (colander), and mash the seeds again till no liquid runs out. The resulting liquid can be measured out and used with "Sure Jell" dry pectin. Following the directions for Jelly (not the Jam) you can make you several pints of very good jelly. If you have never made jelly before using the instructions in the box it's a breeze. BTW, instead of boiling the jars, I put the dishwasher cleaned jars in the oven at 225 and keep them there till I take them out one by one, when I am filling them. You want those jars hot when pouring in the jelly. You don't want to break them with the boiling liquid jelly.</div>
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2. Your seeds are still not ready for the compost pile (Or the bird feeder). This is where they become a "Kitchen Aid". I am very fortunate to own several very nice copper pans. The care and feeding of these is an arduous process. Several years ago while processing blackberries I filled the sink with pots and pans and one of those was sitting in another which had been used to process the berries. It had about 2 inches of water in it. When I removed the pan to wash it (a couple of hours later) It had a bright copper water line on it's bottom. </div>
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My wheels began turning and I took the seeds which were destined for the birds and turned the pan upside down and packed the seed mass all over the pan. I wet it a little (not enough to run out on to the cookie sheet I had it on). I left it for 1 hour and then went to scrape off the stuff. Voila! a clean copper pot with no effort and no expensive caustic cleaner. BTW..I bet I could have frozen the seeds and reused them several times.</div>
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I've been picking berries for a week now. It doesn't look like I have even touched the canes. There are tons on the ground because we have a squirrel with a very purple muzzle. Yesterday I saw a site I wouldn't have believed if I hadn't seen it. We had a Hummer with his beak enjoying blackberry juice direct from the berry.</div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">For more blogs by me, visit at:</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<a href="http://gloriouscreations.blogspot.com/" style="background-color: white; color: #4d469c;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">http://gloriouscreations.blogspot.com</span></a></div>
<div align="center">
<span style="background-color: white;">A blog mostly about quilting, </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">cooking, poetry, prose and a little gardening,</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">New blog, tutorial on how to make 5 panel Boxer Shorts.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> <span style="color: red;">Check out "A MYSTERY IN THE MAKING"</span></span><br />
<span style="color: red;">A mystery quilt designed with the novice in mind. </span><br />
<a href="http://gloriouscreations.blogspot.com/2013/07/a-mystery-in-making.html">http://gloriouscreations.blogspot.com/2013/07/a-mystery-in-making.html</a></div>
<div align="center">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: red; font-size: small;"></span></span><br />
<span style="color: red;"></span><br />
<a href="http://glosgarden.blogspot.com/" style="color: #4d469c;"><span style="color: purple;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">http://glosgarden.blogspot.com/</span></span></a><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">Not a garden blog. </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">There are articles which have nothing to do </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">with creating or gardening. </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">There are blogs on the new born baby kittens </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">we found and mothered. </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">It is a blog where I voice my opinions which will always be environmentally friendly.</span></div>
<div style="color: black; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #4c1130;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #cc0000;"><span style="color: red;"><span style="font-size: medium;">As always, any pictures or writings are my own.</span></span></span></span></div>
<div align="center">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: red;"><span style="color: #4c1130;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #cc0000;">Credit has been given to contributions not my own.</span></span></span><br /><span style="color: red;">Please do not</span><span style="color: red;"><span style="color: #4c1130;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #cc0000;"> use without permission.</span></span></span></span></div>
Sheepishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06867642244105284992noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670521983583754095.post-76602233276401681002013-03-22T08:54:00.001-05:002013-03-28T07:51:57.493-05:00SPARTAN ARROW BUSH BEANS<div align="center">
I have noticed I have quite a few people interested in these beans. When or should I say if we plant them I will be updating this blog with information. (The reason I say if, is winter seems to be hanging on interminably. We haven't even been able to get in to pull weeds. The ground is frozen 2 inches down and on the top is muck.)</div>
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If in our searches we find a source of the seed we will put the information here. Please book mark this page if you are interested. Information will be added with color coding. The date will be at the top of this page and each new addition will be added to the bottom of the article. </div>
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Thank you for reading.</div>
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I have added new blogs on my site about Peppers, Eggplants, Tomatoes and Broccolli.</div>
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</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white;">For more blogs by me, visit
at:</span></div>
<div align="center">
<br />
<a href="http://gloriouscreations.blogspot.com/" style="background-color: white; color: #4d469c;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">http://gloriouscreations.blogspot.com</span></a></div>
<div align="center">
<span style="background-color: white;">A blog mostly
about quilting, </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">cooking, poetry, prose and a little
gardening,</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">New blog, tutorial on how to make 5 panel Boxer
Shorts.</span><br />
N<span style="background-color: white;">ew Blog about
dolls.</span><br />
<br />
<a href="http://glosgarden.blogspot.com/" style="color: #4d469c;"><span style="color: purple;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">http://glosgarden.blogspot.com/</span></span></a><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">Not a garden
blog. </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">There are articles which have nothing to do
</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">with creating or gardening. </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">There are blogs
on the new born baby kittens </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">we found and
mothered. </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">It is a blog where I voice my opinions which will
always be environmentally friendly.</span><br />
<br /></div>
<div style="color: black; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #4c1130;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #cc0000;"><span style="color: red;"><span style="font-size: large;">As always, any pictures or
writings are my own.</span></span></span></span></div>
<div align="center">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: red;"><span style="color: #4c1130;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #cc0000;">Credit has been given to contributions not my
own.</span></span></span><br /><span style="color: red;">Please do
not</span><span style="color: red;"><span style="color: #4c1130;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #cc0000;"> use without permission.</span></span></span></span></div>
Sheepishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06867642244105284992noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670521983583754095.post-54167210476211861782013-03-21T20:32:00.002-05:002013-03-31T21:29:27.457-05:00EGGPLANTS RE POTTED<div style="text-align: center;">
THIS BLOG WILL BE EDITED AND UPDATED ON THE PROGRESS THE PLANTS ARE MAKING. THE DATES WILL BE COLOR CODED. NEW COLOR CODED INFORMATION ADDED AT THE END OF THE BLOG.<br />
<br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: magenta;">MARCH 22, <span style="color: red;">MARCH 31</span></span><br />
<br />
2013 EGGPLANT SAGA continues.<br />
My Eggplants have out grown these homes. Today I am moving them to larger quarters.<br />
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I don't know if you recognize the plants, they're the seedlings I potted on March 2nd. </div>
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This is 19 days growth.</div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtCeb06FAw5sM_f3iPimA4gGmeoSX2RlRKWV9fSYVEG-sRhv-PTQb68kCIcCmQ1Jwza-qAXTmF5U07ODH4FeSIEluD_Od-Kfp2gRjtI_i0mB22dFB8wmcg07RzOICWWueO0ZOdnJ2gLKM/s1600/eggplant+Melanzana+3-21+potted.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="252" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtCeb06FAw5sM_f3iPimA4gGmeoSX2RlRKWV9fSYVEG-sRhv-PTQb68kCIcCmQ1Jwza-qAXTmF5U07ODH4FeSIEluD_Od-Kfp2gRjtI_i0mB22dFB8wmcg07RzOICWWueO0ZOdnJ2gLKM/s640/eggplant+Melanzana+3-21+potted.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZd1XFMbRlcHJ0CLo_xV_4YNtLCwvs5v2u8w9Hu3A0RjvUwxguCUc0qMUCj-JHI6Y3Fj57JpOTeHl831VDbxyFg95IpRwYJbF-m9J6l_FR9ppvzREXw2AssD8Hlyqfj9AdbE6E4mx5Es0/s1600/eggplant+Melanzana+seedlings+3-02+potted.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZd1XFMbRlcHJ0CLo_xV_4YNtLCwvs5v2u8w9Hu3A0RjvUwxguCUc0qMUCj-JHI6Y3Fj57JpOTeHl831VDbxyFg95IpRwYJbF-m9J6l_FR9ppvzREXw2AssD8Hlyqfj9AdbE6E4mx5Es0/s1600/eggplant+Melanzana+seedlings+3-02+potted.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="203" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZd1XFMbRlcHJ0CLo_xV_4YNtLCwvs5v2u8w9Hu3A0RjvUwxguCUc0qMUCj-JHI6Y3Fj57JpOTeHl831VDbxyFg95IpRwYJbF-m9J6l_FR9ppvzREXw2AssD8Hlyqfj9AdbE6E4mx5Es0/s400/eggplant+Melanzana+seedlings+3-02+potted.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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The picture on the left is the March 2nd potting. I was very pleased with the results using the Activia containers. The roots did not get root bound. The soil did not dry out quickly like it does in peat pots. The above picture is tattling on me. It is telling you I don't use sterile potting soil for my plants. Some people would condemn me for it. In fact when we first started gardening we religiously used sterile potting soil. We had the fear of God put into us that every plant would die of damp off. The only thing I like to use sterile mixture for is when I am seeding. I also am very particular to use a soil less mix. The soil I used was from our compost pile which was left over from the year before. It was laden with weed seeds. Needless to say we have to weed our potted plants.</div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhbbrKEG8uMCmjOE6KE9SKMYcYYnSHgL-shvnx5ADLK0Nzr4np3IeITPpR7tFhMGDW2VUo0ocm0aMUr37ECOr4o8HCvFHpqxEHIuT5oZIaqJw29B7kgkHZ1K8viZJOrxafo_VX9Ig605I/s1600/eggplant+Melanzana+3-21+roots.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="263" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhbbrKEG8uMCmjOE6KE9SKMYcYYnSHgL-shvnx5ADLK0Nzr4np3IeITPpR7tFhMGDW2VUo0ocm0aMUr37ECOr4o8HCvFHpqxEHIuT5oZIaqJw29B7kgkHZ1K8viZJOrxafo_VX9Ig605I/s400/eggplant+Melanzana+3-21+roots.jpg" width="400" /></a>This is the root system which has developed. They should not suffer much transplant shock. (Eggplants are supposed to hate being moved from pot to pot). When I put it into the new pot, I put it just a little deeper than it was originally. It is not like tomatoes. It will not grow roots on its main stem. I put it a little deeper so that it will be able to support the growth of leaves which will be happening. <br />
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The following picture shows the depth I put the plant at. I bury it up to where the cotyledons are.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGsl5S9mGJvIhUJ-9Uj8ubTYqvIZujirumiYcL5jkhJofu552xPAfnAnzrHjaH7RpNF5hVibmxYbmc7viyaZ19K6TARfMwRenGx8NhQ2VkwEQ4pD0HfJEsXHO_3iLLnH_TtlArL0OVojg/s1600/eggplant+3-20+potting+depth.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br /></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGsl5S9mGJvIhUJ-9Uj8ubTYqvIZujirumiYcL5jkhJofu552xPAfnAnzrHjaH7RpNF5hVibmxYbmc7viyaZ19K6TARfMwRenGx8NhQ2VkwEQ4pD0HfJEsXHO_3iLLnH_TtlArL0OVojg/s1600/eggplant+3-20+potting+depth.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGsl5S9mGJvIhUJ-9Uj8ubTYqvIZujirumiYcL5jkhJofu552xPAfnAnzrHjaH7RpNF5hVibmxYbmc7viyaZ19K6TARfMwRenGx8NhQ2VkwEQ4pD0HfJEsXHO_3iLLnH_TtlArL0OVojg/s400/eggplant+3-20+potting+depth.jpg" width="361" /> </a>You will notice I am reusing a pot that has not been scrubbed out. This is another NO-NO. (It was rinsed out before it was stacked and put away for the winter, just not scrubbed). As you can see the soil looks wet. I water all plants well, the night before I plan to re-pot them. It helps them to plump up in case they have trouble taking up water after they are transplanted. Something to "tide" them over.<br />
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After the plants are settled in, they get a huge dose of Fish emulsion water. Not only does it give them a nutritional boost it settles the dirt around the roots. <br />
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I didn't mention it before, to my dirt mix which is the same as the first potting, I add ground up eggshells. Calcium helps with the growth of the plants.<br />
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Today all our egg plants went to their new quarters. I did lose one. Its stem had a weak place and when I picked up the plant it snapped at the weak section. Of the above Melanza plants we ended up with 17 plants. <br />
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We also have 9 Aswad plants, and 10 Diamond plants. I am hoping for only one more move but think because the cold is hanging on here, I will be doing this job at least 2 more times before they finally get to the garden. <br />
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These are our eggplants in their new homes.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfqaj6c_cTkxKFdJMyqwjKdu2AVBCJv8rWtM0XxP94Swb1dfLroAK47vuy0v2jIEzJpVkuQ1P2phVXEWL8RigAkzS7Cu2AuiQbxTSOpysUrM7vZsVpvIABj4OYkkyZihzBgiv0beQ8hyA/s1600/eggplant+3-20+finished+potting.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="243" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfqaj6c_cTkxKFdJMyqwjKdu2AVBCJv8rWtM0XxP94Swb1dfLroAK47vuy0v2jIEzJpVkuQ1P2phVXEWL8RigAkzS7Cu2AuiQbxTSOpysUrM7vZsVpvIABj4OYkkyZihzBgiv0beQ8hyA/s640/eggplant+3-20+finished+potting.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Look closely at the base of the eggplants, the dirt is covered to the cotyledons.</div>
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<span style="color: magenta;">MARCH 22: It is very important to make sure your eggplants are in a consistently warm environment. Chilling, stresses them and sets back their development. Our eggplants are still on their shelf where they are closed in at night to keep the heat in through the night when the lights go out. We are prepared with a heating pad if needed (a person's heating pad, not a special mat for plants). This is set on low and the plants are set on racks about 1 inch above it. The temps stay at or around 75 degrees</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc5aRq07sKbM7_mnwsmvbdQ_ywQFtdSaVCk7hhX3KOZWA9HVfShER9jF1Q2iVADFtNElf1ezTx77ZtUA4JaZ5QJCajieSHBjDdqpYjzivkOi3G6-9J9xfO65dTSM6B7j4gxUME3zMnhA8/s1600/eggplant+3-20+shelf.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br /></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc5aRq07sKbM7_mnwsmvbdQ_ywQFtdSaVCk7hhX3KOZWA9HVfShER9jF1Q2iVADFtNElf1ezTx77ZtUA4JaZ5QJCajieSHBjDdqpYjzivkOi3G6-9J9xfO65dTSM6B7j4gxUME3zMnhA8/s1600/eggplant+3-20+shelf.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="170" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc5aRq07sKbM7_mnwsmvbdQ_ywQFtdSaVCk7hhX3KOZWA9HVfShER9jF1Q2iVADFtNElf1ezTx77ZtUA4JaZ5QJCajieSHBjDdqpYjzivkOi3G6-9J9xfO65dTSM6B7j4gxUME3zMnhA8/s400/eggplant+3-20+shelf.jpg" width="400" /></a><span style="color: magenta;">They receive 16 hours of light. (We have a timer). The plants are 2 inches or less from the light source. The picture on the left, is the day before the eggplants were re-potted. you can see how close the plants are to the light source. Our light source is an inexpensive "shop light" set up with two fluorescent bulbs. (We have a bank of 3 units for each shelf). We try to keep one grow light and one regular bulb in each fixture. But grow lights are expensive so if they burn out sometimes they are not replaced immediately. We have seen no detriments to their growth.</span><br />
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<span style="color: magenta;">Water or the lack there of, is extremely stressful to the plants. They need to be consistently damp. This needs to be checked twice a day, especially when the plants are nearing filling their pots with roots. They consume lots of water and dry out quickly. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg0lUdCKJU1fqUN4T-Wg34Vl4-2piRG4WloU4H38cpiVqpzBeCEkdGUTm3_vF8V_R5Xa5N_7FzAwW876JD5klQGUb_wsxUBqePmgVe1bVos8QzS4LvVpbIsQ3xPt4nJC6MQFTNSLaEIqQ/s1600/eggplant+3-31size.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="452" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg0lUdCKJU1fqUN4T-Wg34Vl4-2piRG4WloU4H38cpiVqpzBeCEkdGUTm3_vF8V_R5Xa5N_7FzAwW876JD5klQGUb_wsxUBqePmgVe1bVos8QzS4LvVpbIsQ3xPt4nJC6MQFTNSLaEIqQ/s640/eggplant+3-31size.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: red;">MARCH 31,</span><br />
<span style="color: red;">The above tray is the same tray as in the picture above. It is just turned around to the other side. The Dannon container is the only thing handy that I had for size comparison. They have really grown the last 8 days. They are still under the lights in the nice warm furnace room. They are given a feeding of fish emulsion once a week. Their roots are rapidly filling the pots. I was hoping to have some reprieve before I had to repot them again.</span><br />
<span style="color: red;"></span><br />
<span style="color: red;">Tomorrow I will pull one out of the pot and take a picture of the root systems.</span><br />
<span style="color: red;"></span> </div>
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Previous blog on the beginning of these plants: </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://organicinstlouis.blogspot.com/2013/03/eggplant-transplanting.html">http://organicinstlouis.blogspot.com/2013/03/eggplant-transplanting.html</a><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: medium;">For more blogs by me, visit at:</span></span></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://gloriouscreations.blogspot.com/" style="background-color: white; color: #4d469c;"><span style="font-size: large;">http://gloriouscreations.blogspot.com</span></a></div>
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">A blog mostly about quilting, </span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">cooking, poetry, prose and a little
gardening,</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">New blog, tutorial on how to make 5 panel Boxer
Shorts.</span></span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"></span></span><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"></span></span> </div>
N<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">ew Blog about dolls.</span></span><br />
<br />
<a href="http://glosgarden.blogspot.com/" style="color: #4d469c;"><span style="color: purple;"><span style="font-size: large;">http://glosgarden.blogspot.com/</span></span></a><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Not a garden blog. </span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">There are articles which have nothing to do
</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">with creating or gardening. </span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">There are blogs on the new born baby kittens
</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">we found and mothered. </span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">It is a blog where I voice my opinions which will
always be environmentally friendly.</span></span><br />
<br />
<div style="color: black; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"></span><span style="color: #4c1130;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #cc0000;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="color: red;">As always, any pictures or
writings are my own.</span></span></span></span></div>
<span style="color: red;"><span style="color: #4c1130;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #cc0000;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Credit has been given to contributions not my
own.</span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="color: red;">Please do
not</span><span style="color: red;"><span style="color: #4c1130;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #cc0000;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">
use without permission.</span></span></span></span></div>
Sheepishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06867642244105284992noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670521983583754095.post-41990436564627997172013-03-20T20:15:00.002-05:002013-04-01T08:58:54.161-05:00TOMATOES <div align="center">
This is a blog which will be updated with each of the changes in the lives of the tomatoes.<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">BLOG EDITS:</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: red;">March 24, </span><span style="color: blue;">March 25, </span><span style="color: lime;">March 26, </span><span style="color: magenta;">March 28, </span><span style="color: orange;">March 31, </span><span style="color: cyan;"> April 1</span></span><br />
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The color of the date of the edits will be changed.</div>
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Information added on that date will be typed in that color. Scroll down for updates.<br />
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Finally it is the day to start my tomatoes. I have been nervous that maybe I shouldn't have waited till now to start them. I started the eggplants and peppers over a month ago. The eggplants are ready to go into their second potting and the peppers are poking along. The following links are their blogs:</div>
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<a href="http://organicinstlouis.blogspot.com/2013/03/eggplant-transplanting.html">http://organicinstlouis.blogspot.com/2013/03/eggplant-transplanting.html</a></div>
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<a href="http://organicinstlouis.blogspot.com/2013/02/sweet-peppers.html">http://organicinstlouis.blogspot.com/2013/02/sweet-peppers.html</a><br />
</div>
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I have put the seeds in the dirt and they are ready to go into the propagation chamber. The moon is coming up to the full phase I hope it pulls these seeds right out of their "shells". I use exactly the same dirt and methods I use for the peppers and Eggplants. (refer to either blog)</div>
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This is the 16 varieties ready to go into the chamber.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIDaQOpoXLUSWmr6prYOZi4Y2j2TnqXaNKgwrlowZX4Xh7siDlL-SGqlSHmTv5Qpm6PPZI2XGbIQru6kXiBdSdKNqj3D_YPQPCcSK_OT3-oNXNrqfc6I2k5FR8CwhvnrOAEiszVGHjMR0/s1600/TOMATOES+SEED+POTS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="252" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIDaQOpoXLUSWmr6prYOZi4Y2j2TnqXaNKgwrlowZX4Xh7siDlL-SGqlSHmTv5Qpm6PPZI2XGbIQru6kXiBdSdKNqj3D_YPQPCcSK_OT3-oNXNrqfc6I2k5FR8CwhvnrOAEiszVGHjMR0/s640/TOMATOES+SEED+POTS.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I normally use the Activia containers cut in half to start a few seeds (they are slipped in a plastic zipper bag), but I was rummaging in a drawer today and found these larger size sauce containers (used for take out). They have plastic lids which will keep in the moisture. They are large enough, when half filled, there is room when the seeds sprout to grow for 24 hours. (There are holes poked in the bottom for drainage. We keep the chamber about 72-76 degrees for sprouting the tomatoes.</div>
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THE VARIETIES WE PLANTED</div>
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DATE</div>
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MARCH 20 <span style="color: red;">MAR 24 </span><span style="color: blue;">MAR 25 </span><span style="color: lime;">MAR 26 </span><span style="color: magenta;">MAR 28 </span><span style="color: orange;">MAR 31</span></div>
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AUNT RUBY'S <span style="color: blue;">2/6 </span><span style="color: lime;">3/6 </span><span style="color: magenta;">4/6 </span><span style="color: orange;">5/6</span></div>
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GERMAN GREEN</div>
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Pinetree 2010 6 sds</div>
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BIG MAMA <span style="color: red;"> HYB </span><span style="color: lime;">4/12 </span><span style="color: magenta;">5/12 </span><span style="color: orange;">5/12</span></div>
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Burpees 2008 12 sds</div>
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CHADWICK </div>
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CHERRY</div>
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?? ?? 9 SDS <span style="color: red;">5/9 </span><span style="color: blue;">9/9 <span style="color: lime;">9/9</span> </span><span style="color: magenta;">9/9 </span><span style="color: orange;">9/9</span></div>
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CHEROKEE <span style="color: blue;">3/6 </span><span style="color: lime;">3/6 </span><span style="color: magenta;">4/6 </span><span style="color: orange;"> 4/6</span></div>
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PURPLE </div>
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SowTrue 2012 6 sds</div>
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COMPOST GOLD</div>
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Mine OP 2009 6 sds</div>
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DELICIOUS 12 sds <span style="color: red;">3/12 </span><span style="color: blue;">7/12 <span style="color: lime;">7/12</span> </span><span style="color: magenta;">7/12 </span><span style="color: orange;">8/12</span></div>
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Henry Fields 2010 </div>
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FLAMINGO <span style="color: red;">HYB 1/8 </span><span style="color: blue;">1/8 </span><span style="color: lime;">1/8 </span><span style="color: magenta;">1/8 </span><span style="color: orange;">2/8</span></div>
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Gurneys ?? 8 SDS</div>
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GERMAN OLD <span style="color: lime;">2/12 </span><span style="color: magenta;"> 4/12 </span><span style="color: orange;"> 5/12</span></div>
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TIMERS 12 SDS</div>
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MineOP 2013 12 sds </div>
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GOLDEN RAVE <span style="color: blue;">1/8 </span><span style="color: lime;">1/8 </span><span style="color: magenta;"> 1/8 </span><span style="color: orange;">2/8</span></div>
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<span style="color: red;">HYB</span> Gurneys 8 sds</div>
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2010</div>
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JELLY BEANS <span style="color: red;">HYB 1/ 8 </span><span style="color: blue;"> 1</span><span style="color: blue;">/8 <span style="color: lime;">3/8</span> </span><span style="color: magenta;">3/8 </span><span style="color: orange;">3/8</span></div>
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Gurneys 2010 10 sds</div>
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JUBILEE <span style="color: orange;"> 1/10</span></div>
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Ferry Morse</div>
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2009 10 SEEDS</div>
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JULIET <span style="color: red;">HYB 8/10 </span><span style="color: blue;">9/10 </span><span style="color: lime;">9/10 </span><span style="color: magenta;"> 9/10 </span><span style="color: orange;">9/10</span></div>
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Jung 2012 10 sds</div>
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ORANGE <span style="color: red;">HYB </span><span style="color: lime;">1/8 </span><span style="color: magenta;"> 1/8 </span><span style="color: orange;"> 2/8</span></div>
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WHOPPER 8 sds</div>
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Gurneys 2013</div>
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SUN SUGAR <span style="color: red;">HYB 5/9 </span><span style="color: blue;">8/9 </span><span style="color: lime;">8/9 </span><span style="color: magenta;"> 9/9 </span><span style="color: orange;"> 9/9</span></div>
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Pinetree 2012 9 sds</div>
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I have two other packages of Jelly Bean tomatoes and I want to start a few of each just in case the others don't sprout. I also want to start some more of the "Compost Gold". We will be saving seeds from two of our tomatoes. They each have a story:</div>
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COMPOST GOLD: This tomato was found growing in the compost pile. It is a jawbreaker size yellow cherry tomato (we have never grown yellow cherry tomatoes). The skin was thin. It continued to flower and produce after the first frosts. The flavor was outstanding even for a yellow tomato. The color was a brilliant gold. Hence the name Compost Gold.<br />
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GERMAN OLD TIMERS has a wonderful story behind it, albeit long one. I was on a trip to buy hay for my goats, cows and sheep. I drive past a state park named "Babler Park". On the way there is someone who always has a small kitchen garden. I noticed he had a veggie stand and could see squash on the table. I stopped to buy some (my squash plants had been inundated with the borers.) Also on the table I saw these green tomatoes. They were on the medium size and I commented it was nice of him to pick his tomatoes green so people could make fried green tomatoes.<br />
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"Lady, Dem's ripe." He volunteered.<br />
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"They are still green, where did you find tomatoes still green when ripe?" I replied incredulously in 1998.<br />
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"Da Ole guy, don the street, brung dem from Germany, gived me the seed."<br />
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"Do you know the name of the variety?" I asked.<br />
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"Nope, I din forgot, was long time ago. Can't ask him, he dead."<br />
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I bought a pound of them, thinking it was a mistake. When I got home I examined them and they felt ripe. I cut into the softest one and cautiously took a bite. Taste sensation moment. If I closed my eyes it was the reddest tomato I had ever tasted with lemony overtones. <br />
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The closest I can guess, is it is probably kin to the zebra tomato. I have been saving my own seed from it since that day. We named them German Old Timers because the original seed came from an old man from Germany.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE2eVGZ9cK3ZqIwGrTTbfwpgr5tVLqJRgPQCtBJr-LwPCo8pOVBjaWkaPDHmkHUqRhLeCYEXXrRLDOTD2UDc0l7XTTeAJOGYmpJ3qPIVUJew16bXa9NGHIFxUrT-iOsZueOICLJmRgmvU/s1600/TOMATO+SEED+SPROUT+3-24.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br /></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE2eVGZ9cK3ZqIwGrTTbfwpgr5tVLqJRgPQCtBJr-LwPCo8pOVBjaWkaPDHmkHUqRhLeCYEXXrRLDOTD2UDc0l7XTTeAJOGYmpJ3qPIVUJew16bXa9NGHIFxUrT-iOsZueOICLJmRgmvU/s1600/TOMATO+SEED+SPROUT+3-24.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE2eVGZ9cK3ZqIwGrTTbfwpgr5tVLqJRgPQCtBJr-LwPCo8pOVBjaWkaPDHmkHUqRhLeCYEXXrRLDOTD2UDc0l7XTTeAJOGYmpJ3qPIVUJew16bXa9NGHIFxUrT-iOsZueOICLJmRgmvU/s320/TOMATO+SEED+SPROUT+3-24.jpg" width="286" /></a><span style="color: red;">MARCH 24: I picked red because it is a red letter day. I couldn't wait to get on the computer to write this update. Last night seconds before I went to bed I remembered I hadn't checked the seeds for the evening. I really did not expect anything being it was only 3 1/2 days since I put them in the chamber. Much to my surprise there was sprouting just starting in two varieties. Four plants, just unbending, in the Juliet's and 1 plant in the Sun Sugar. If I had left them, in the chamber in the dark, till this morning they would have become gangly. This morning they were already an inch high and they had developed their first leaves. The picture on the left is our first tomato sprouts. I didn't realize until I took this picture I had put the wrong date on the labels. They were started on the 20th, not the 21st.</span><br />
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<span style="color: red;"> It is snowing very hard right now. It didn't start till about 6 this morning after raining all night. We are due for lots of snow today, who would have thunk!Normally I am picking lettuce outside, but the only thing growing in my garden is last years lemon thyme. I have covered and uncovered, (with two large plastic buckets inside of each other for insulation) to keep it from freezing. It worked too. It has been growing, albeit slowly and I have been harvesting all winter. </span></div>
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<span style="color: red;"></span><br /></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC3zLQUH8GvJbV6d0ELcvei199PytugJ917Tj3_0QW1rPgqG1n7F8pNLD7xbunviyHanKByzLGVqd5pHfzlA5awnuyso8HKm4j3syjEijzR9PTBwpupWpHiqSKd0wvi06mPY5bslPPHDo/s1600/BASIL+3-22.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br /></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC3zLQUH8GvJbV6d0ELcvei199PytugJ917Tj3_0QW1rPgqG1n7F8pNLD7xbunviyHanKByzLGVqd5pHfzlA5awnuyso8HKm4j3syjEijzR9PTBwpupWpHiqSKd0wvi06mPY5bslPPHDo/s1600/BASIL+3-22.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="195" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC3zLQUH8GvJbV6d0ELcvei199PytugJ917Tj3_0QW1rPgqG1n7F8pNLD7xbunviyHanKByzLGVqd5pHfzlA5awnuyso8HKm4j3syjEijzR9PTBwpupWpHiqSKd0wvi06mPY5bslPPHDo/s400/BASIL+3-22.jpg" width="400" /></a><span style="color: red;">Another herb that definitely says get growing tomatoes is basil. When I set the seed for the peppers I also planted Siam queen basil and sweet basil. This week when they move to larger homes, I will be able to pinch the top set of leaves off to have with chicken sandwiches..or even on pasta . These basils left their nursery tray on March 7th. They weren't even a 1/2 inch tall at that time. This picture was taken March 22.</span><br />
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<span style="color: blue;">MARCH 25: It is still snowing and we have at least 11 inches on the ground. The snow is real fine (like a mist that is frozen). There is a wind today..Not a gusty one, it is steady about 10 mph. Inside though me and the seedlings are doing just fine. </span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"></span><br />
<span style="color: blue;">In the last 24 hours we have had a population explosion. I find myself getting anxious for the ones which have shown no sign of life. I proofed the "Compost Gold" seeds and on the one set I had 80% germination. They haven't shown they are "in the dirt"yet. I just checked the dates and it took them 6 days to germinate. Today is only 5 days. I guess I need to be patient. The other tomato "German Old Timers" I didn't proof because it was seed I collected last fall and it wasn't old and it was processed properly when I collected it. Of the older seeds I know to be patient, they do need a longer germination time.</span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"></span><br />
<span style="color: blue;">This is the blog I wrote when I proofed some of my seeds.</span><br />
<a href="http://organicinstlouis.blogspot.com/2013/02/proofing-seeds.html">http://organicinstlouis.blogspot.com/2013/02/proofing-seeds.html</a><br />
<span style="color: blue;"></span><br />
<span style="color: blue;">Something I need to mention for those reading who are beginners; When your tomatoes sprout don't be alarmed if they look extremely skinny and fragile. I don't know why, but the tomato seedlings are terribly thin compared to their pepper and Eggplant cousins. They also seem to take an interminable length of time before they set their second leaves. Place those seedlings as close to the light source as possible. Mine are no more than an inch some are almost touching. (Do not let the leaves touch the bulbs).</span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"></span><br />
<span style="color: lime;">MARCH 26: A couple of more varieties sprouted during the night. I am getting a little anxious about my newest seed from Gurneys. The orange whopper has just sprouted one and I only planted 8 seeds because it was fresh seed. </span><br />
<span style="color: lime;"></span><br />
<span style="color: lime;">I have had a large percentage of "trapped" seeds. Where the shell doesn't pop off. some of them have not grown enough for me to pinch it off like I did for the peppers and eggplants. There are pictures in the pepper blog how I "un trap" a seedling.</span><br />
<a href="http://organicinstlouis.blogspot.com/2013/02/sweet-peppers.html">http://organicinstlouis.blogspot.com/2013/02/sweet-peppers.html</a><br />
<br />
<span style="color: lime;">The snow has stopped and what melting which did occur froze over making heavy ice. Walking to the barn will be treacherous this morning. Something a little off topic but note worthy, we had a Towhee show up at the bird feeder yesterday. They are normally a very shy bird but he stayed around for half the day. I hope we weren't his truck stop on the way to somewhere else. Last year we didn't have towhees..but previous years we have always had a resident pair.</span><br />
<span style="color: lime;"></span><br />
<span style="color: lime;">Today I will be potting more tomato seeds just in case and I will probably start some more basils and some lettuce.</span><br />
<span style="color: lime;"></span><br />
<span style="color: magenta;">MARCH 28: Getting more anxious about the germination of some of the seeds. I know it is only 8 days.</span><br />
<span style="color: magenta;"></span><br />
<span style="color: magenta;"></span><br />
<span style="color: orange;">MARCH 31: It is Easter Sunday, the end of Passover is tomorrow. It is the season of renewal. Today it is just that in our household. The tomatoes are finally ready to do it in the "dirt". They are ready to make the transitions to real pots. For us it is the activia containers, using the mix they have come from mixed with My special potting mix. It is also time to begin another blog on this stage of their lives. I will post the link here when I post the blog.</span><br />
<span style="color: orange;"></span><br />
<span style="color: orange;">I am very disappointed I have two varieties which didn't sprout. I know it only 11 days and am still hoping more will sprout. I will plant more of these and hope the seed isn't bad. The biggest disappointment is the "Gurneys Orange Whopper". This was new seed and to have only two sprout. I will be calling the company. If the viability is this poor in the fresh seed, It certainly won't grow next year. (I still have the other 2/3 of the packet to use). </span><br />
<span style="color: orange;"></span><br />
<span style="color: orange;">The "Compost Gold", </span><span style="color: orange;">I am wondering if I got the labels mixed up and this was the wrong seed that I proofed. I had two sources I saved seed from. One was the fruit which was fresh which I refered to as "wet" and a fruit that was dried on the vine "dry". This is the blog about proofing seeds:</span><br />
<a href="http://organicinstlouis.blogspot.com/2013/02/proofing-seeds.html">http://organicinstlouis.blogspot.com/2013/02/proofing-seeds.html</a><br />
<br />
<span style="color: cyan;">APRIL 1: I haven't finished the blog for yesterday "Moving Day". I did want to put a note about the pots I used for starting the seed. The larger "take home sauce" pots were the absolute perfect container. I will buy a product if it is in a container I can recycle for the garden. The reason they were perfect is they had enough room when 1/2 filled to plant the seed and if it sprouted before you got there, there was room between the soil less mix and the lid. The lid held the moisture in till sprouting (no need for plastic bags, sliding containers in and out). They were small enough you didn't have a lot of mix used. You could plant 4 seeds and extract the seedlings without damage. (I did put nine seeds in a couple and they did fine. I just had to soak the plants to loosen the medium from around the roots). Then there was the coup d' gras.....they have outwardly sloping sides. This made it easy to wet the root ball and slide it right out of the container. </span><br />
<span style="color: cyan;"></span><br />
<span style="color: cyan;">The containers I am referring to are the ones in the opening picture of this article. As you can see we also use cut down activia containers. These work well but they have to be put in a plastic bag to keep moist in the propagation chamber. </span><br />
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The following blogs are blogs I've written about previous gardening of tomatoes:</div>
<a href="http://organicinstlouis.blogspot.com/2012/03/from-seed-tomato-grows.html">http://organicinstlouis.blogspot.com/2012/03/from-seed-tomato-grows.html</a><br />
<a href="http://organicinstlouis.blogspot.com/2010/07/perfect-tomato.html">http://organicinstlouis.blogspot.com/2010/07/perfect-tomato.html</a><br />
<a href="http://organicinstlouis.blogspot.com/2010/08/more-on-quest.html">http://organicinstlouis.blogspot.com/2010/08/more-on-quest.html</a><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: large;">For more
blogs by me, visit at:</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://gloriouscreations.blogspot.com/" style="background-color: white; color: #4d469c;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">http://gloriouscreations.blogspot.com</span></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: small;">A blog mostly about quilting, </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: small;">but cooking, poetry, prose and a little
gardening,</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: small;">New blog, tutorial on how to make 5 panel Boxer
Shorts.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: small;">New Blog about dolls.</span></span></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<a href="http://glosgarden.blogspot.com/" style="color: #4d469c;"><span style="color: purple;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">http://glosgarden.blogspot.com/</span></span></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: small;">Not a garden blog. </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: small;">There are articles which have nothing to do </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: small;">with creating or gardening. </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: small;">There are blogs on the new born baby kittens </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: small;">we found and mothered. </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: small;">It is a blog where I voice my opinions which will
always be environmentally friendly.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="color: black; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"></span><span style="color: #4c1130;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #cc0000;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: red;"> As always, any pictures or
writings are my own.</span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="color: black; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #4c1130;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #cc0000;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: red;"></span></span></span></span> <span style="color: red;"><span style="color: #4c1130;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #cc0000;"><span style="font-size: small;">Credit has been given to contributions not my
own.</span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="color: black; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: red;"><span style="color: #4c1130;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #cc0000;"><span style="font-size: small;"></span></span></span></span> <span style="color: red;">Please do
not</span><span style="color: red;"><span style="color: #4c1130;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #cc0000;"><span style="font-size: small;">
use without permission.</span></span></span></span></div>
</div>
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</div>
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</div>
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Sheepishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06867642244105284992noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670521983583754095.post-77584821510357370082013-03-02T22:37:00.000-06:002013-03-02T22:37:59.360-06:00WHEN TO START SEEDS<div align="justify">
This is a question which is answered by multitudinous sites on the Internet. It varies from region to region, and person to person. It is also predestined by the things going on in your life. </div>
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</div>
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How do I decide when to plant. I use all the tables I find and then I throw in the moon cycles. We have discovered planting by the moon signs is very beneficial. </div>
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We found we had no luck growing radishes and root crops if they were planted close to or in the coming up of a full moon. The seeds energies seemed to be pulled into making leaves.</div>
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</div>
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Another thing that upsets a planting regimen is the weather. The moon may be just right to plant the potatoes on March 16, but the ground may be frozen solid. Or you can't prepare the site because you've had a torrential down poor. You have to be flexible and plant when you can. I can also counsel you, from my own experience about thinking about when your plants are due to mature.</div>
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Example: If you are planting peas, the weather is still great, but you had to plant them over 6 weeks late because it was too muddy to work the garden at the proper time. These peas are going to mature just as it gets real hot. You won't get much of a harvest for your work. The plants will burn up and the peas are on the plants will be tough. Wait till summer is on the wain and plant your peas for a fall crop.</div>
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</div>
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Tomatoes and peppers (Nightshade plants): you can start the seeds anytime just remember the date on the package is how long before the first fruit happens. I started my eggplants the first of February. They take a long time before they are big enough for the garden. Peppers are also slower growing so I have started them too. They are still in the propagation chamber. They haven't sprouted yet. Tomatoes are a faster growing plant and tend to get leggy quickly so I have delayed planting them until the next full moon.</div>
<div align="justify">
<a href="http://organicinstlouis.blogspot.com/2013/02/sweet-peppers.html">http://organicinstlouis.blogspot.com/2013/02/sweet-peppers.html</a></div>
<div align="justify">
<a href="http://organicinstlouis.blogspot.com/2013/02/eggplant.html">http://organicinstlouis.blogspot.com/2013/02/eggplant.html</a></div>
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</div>
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Brassicas: We already have ours started and they are being transplanted this weekend. I hope I haven't started them too early. We are having colder temperatures than normal with snow.</div>
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<a href="http://organicinstlouis.blogspot.com/2013/02/broccoli.html">http://organicinstlouis.blogspot.com/2013/02/broccoli.html</a></div>
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</div>
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Happy gardening and please try you hand at raising your own plants. You will have so many varieties available to you that are not sold on the open market. Read all you can to decide what methods work well for you. There are not any garden police running around and telling you what to do. Remember if you are a new gardener to start small. I know this is hard because there are so many new and exciting plants. Remember what you plant will need weeding and watering.</div>
<div align="justify">
<br />
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: small;">For more blogs
by me, visit at:</span></span></div>
<div align="justify">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://gloriouscreations.blogspot.com/" style="background-color: white; color: #4d469c;"><span style="font-size: medium;">http://gloriouscreations.blogspot.com</span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: black; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: small;">A blog mostly about quilting,</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: small;">but cooking, poetry, prose and a little
gardening,</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: small;">New blog, tutorial on how to make 5 panel Boxer
Shorts.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: small;">New Blog about dolls.</span></span></div>
<div align="justify">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /><a href="http://glosgarden.blogspot.com/" style="color: #4d469c;"><span style="color: purple;"><span style="font-size: medium;">http://glosgarden.blogspot.com/</span></span></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: small;">Not a garden blog. </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: small;">There are articles which have nothing to do </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: small;">with creating or gardening. </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: small;">There are blogs on the new born baby kittens </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: small;">we found and mothered.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: small;"></span></span><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: small;">It is a blog where I voice my opinions which will
always be environmentally friendly.</span></span></div>
<div align="justify">
</div>
<div style="color: black; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"></span><span style="color: #4c1130;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #cc0000;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: red;"> As always, any pictures or
writings are my own. </span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="color: black; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #4c1130;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #cc0000;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: red;"></span></span></span></span><span style="color: red;"><span style="color: #4c1130;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #cc0000;"><span style="font-size: small;">Credit has been given to contributions not my
own.</span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: red;"> Please do
not</span><span style="color: red;"><span style="color: #4c1130;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #cc0000;"><span style="font-size: small;">
use without permission.</span></span></span></span></div>
<div align="justify">
</div>
<div align="justify">
</div>
<div align="justify">
</div>
Sheepishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06867642244105284992noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670521983583754095.post-76860902403933773412013-03-02T21:20:00.003-06:002013-03-19T17:32:19.775-05:00EGGPLANT: TRANSPLANTING<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: blue; font-size: large;">BLOG EDITS: </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: purple;"><span style="font-size: large;">MARCH 6, <span style="color: orange;">MARCH 7, </span></span><span style="color: lime;"><span style="font-size: large;">MARCH 9,</span> </span><span style="color: magenta; font-size: large;">MARCH 19</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;">You will find the edits shown in the colors of the dates.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_e-6l-FW3QzO_i4-ueRtfB9j2mwQFdekjOfwlBiUW93BThpudYB63MVx3C6lfHfjaS2oSyVfO9mWsCnZRyfJYLn44pTud4DIFWECZPc1rtlExH4cbFZf5y_rEDpUE7Y29r-qYq8jKiB8/s1600/BROCCOLI+seedlings+waltham+mar+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="292" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_e-6l-FW3QzO_i4-ueRtfB9j2mwQFdekjOfwlBiUW93BThpudYB63MVx3C6lfHfjaS2oSyVfO9mWsCnZRyfJYLn44pTud4DIFWECZPc1rtlExH4cbFZf5y_rEDpUE7Y29r-qYq8jKiB8/s320/BROCCOLI+seedlings+waltham+mar+2.jpg" width="320" /></a>Our Eggplant seedlings were in desperate need of new living quarters. The picture on the left is not eggplants, it is just to show you the tools of our trade. (The seedlings are Broccoli which were transplanted yesterday.) The picture is to show you, you do not need fancy store bought pots to start your seeds in. The clear plastic tray is from Chocolate Covered Graham Crackers. An Activia cup gets the collar cut off. I used 6" fiskars squeeze handled scissors. Then I used my printer to make the labels and glued them on with a kids glue stick. I used a fondue stick to poke two holes, in the raised section in the bottom of the activia cup, for drainage. I was now ready to transplant any of my seedlings. <br />
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<span style="color: red;">ALERT: WHEN YOU REMOVE THE RING ON THE ACTIVIA CUP PLEASE CLIP ONE SIDE SO IT IS BROKEN. PLASTIC RINGS, IN LAND FILLS, STRANGLE WILDLIFE. (DON'T FORGET THE ONES ON TOP OF YOUR MILK CARTONS.) THANK YOU FOR PROTECTING THOSE WHO CAN'T PROTECT THEMSELVES.</span></div>
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We have three varieties of eggplants this year. </div>
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You can find information on starting the seed in the following blog:</div>
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<a href="http://organicinstlouis.blogspot.com/2013/02/eggplant.html"><span style="font-size: large;">http://organicinstlouis.blogspot.com/2013/02/eggplant.html</span></a></div>
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There is information about proofing of seeds here:</div>
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<a href="http://organicinstlouis.blogspot.com/2013/02/proofing-seeds.html"><span style="font-size: large;">http://organicinstlouis.blogspot.com/2013/02/proofing-seeds.html</span></a></div>
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We proofed a very old package of eggplant seed. The Romanesco. The last time I grew it we were impressed with the production and the taste. We wanted to make sure it had some viability. If it didn't we wanted to buy more. If it was low we would just plant more seed than we needed. Instead the test came back with 50% viability. The one thing we noticed is the seed took longer to sprout than the newer seed did. So I planted lots thinking maybe my testing was flawed. What did I get? I got 50% again. I planted 40 and 20 sprouted.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMpRIGpnRlVn_MDbMmoPDGVFHS8QvGj-GJBdPLx_OytFv7oGlZ0wzUSoiWwqJe8EZUhI6TgZGJRlFleqXeCaPCFwcNZf1f7_3eznBcyJiRaUEWQBwIKERDbHWs4FJFGRn5HPuBc5vY_Sk/s1600/eggplant+Melanzana+seedlings+3-02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br /></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMpRIGpnRlVn_MDbMmoPDGVFHS8QvGj-GJBdPLx_OytFv7oGlZ0wzUSoiWwqJe8EZUhI6TgZGJRlFleqXeCaPCFwcNZf1f7_3eznBcyJiRaUEWQBwIKERDbHWs4FJFGRn5HPuBc5vY_Sk/s1600/eggplant+Melanzana+seedlings+3-02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMpRIGpnRlVn_MDbMmoPDGVFHS8QvGj-GJBdPLx_OytFv7oGlZ0wzUSoiWwqJe8EZUhI6TgZGJRlFleqXeCaPCFwcNZf1f7_3eznBcyJiRaUEWQBwIKERDbHWs4FJFGRn5HPuBc5vY_Sk/s320/eggplant+Melanzana+seedlings+3-02.jpg" width="304" /><br />
</a>These are the Romanesco seedlings which "hatched". They are in a shallow dish of luke warm water. They are soaking to loosen the soil less mix from around their roots. You don't want to tear any of the entangled roots from each delicate plant. These plants are so crisp it takes nothing to snap their stalk. When you are handling them do it gently. I do not recommend using tweezers or any instrument to hold them with. It will cut into their "skin". Eggplants are very sensitive to temperature and to how they are handled. Stress sets them way back. <br />
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We use the Activia cups because they are deep and narrow. They do not require a large amount of our soil mix. What is our soil mix. We mix one part soil with one part peat moss, with 1/2 part sand, 1/2 part of our dried manure from goats/sheep/cow and one part rice hulls. When this is well mixed we add a quart of Epsom salts and a quart of bone meal to a large wheel barrow of the mix. This is then stored to use for potting. </div>
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We take equal amounts of this and our soil less mix and mix them together. This is what we use for the first transplanting. We fill the cups half full and then tamp it down and hold the transplant over it while we gently put our mix around the Seedling. The cup with a seedling in it is put on a tray and watered with fish emulsion. We use 3 Tablespoons of fish emulsion to 1 gallon of water. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuqzcvCLfmsBRsuXXeOD2H1Glx9tt1Ra5mBDxAThV5-ZJJ4SgIcc_boPVp_tNaO4PeFRfHzJg-Z5cNQDuTMFEM-NtPnwZESoXnjiwvJ3bOu-Ct5nnjKgUG8lqaeawyVjldzhKw53JiALA/s1600/eggplant+Melanzana+seedlings+3-02+potted.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="324" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuqzcvCLfmsBRsuXXeOD2H1Glx9tt1Ra5mBDxAThV5-ZJJ4SgIcc_boPVp_tNaO4PeFRfHzJg-Z5cNQDuTMFEM-NtPnwZESoXnjiwvJ3bOu-Ct5nnjKgUG8lqaeawyVjldzhKw53JiALA/s640/eggplant+Melanzana+seedlings+3-02+potted.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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The photo above is the eggplants in their new homes. You can see another recycled item we use. This is a Styrofoam tray from raw Chicken. BTW, Looking at this picture reminded me of something. Do not try to remove the Activia paper from the cups. There are two reasons: One, the cup is very flimsy without it. Two, it is very difficult to get your labels to stick on the plastic with the glue stick.</div>
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Through the years we have found, you should give each of your pots ID, even if the tray is all the same variety. You never know when someone will move a pot and set it with another variety. Another hint, a red sharpie on white plastic labels washes off or fades worse than any of the colors. </div>
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The above eggplants are now under lights and are covered in a plastic tent to keep in the heat from the lights. They like to be kept at 75 degrees or warmer. Our house is chilly and I don't want them to get chilled. (Now I need to think of where all the extra plants are going. I really only wanted less than a dozen)</div>
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POTTED:</div>
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MAR 2 Melanzana Roamanesco 20 plants</div>
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<a href="http://theitaliangardener.com.au/products/EGGPLANT-tonda-bianca-sfumata-di-rosa.html">http://theitaliangardener.com.au/products/EGGPLANT-tonda-bianca-sfumata-di-rosa.html</a></div>
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MAR 3 Diamond 10 plants</div>
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<a href="http://rareseeds.com/diamond-eggplant.html">http://rareseeds.com/diamond-eggplant.html</a></div>
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March 3 Aswad 9 plants</div>
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<a href="http://rareseeds.com/aswad-eggplant.html">http://rareseeds.com/aswad-eggplant.html</a></div>
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The Aswad and Diamond are eggplants we have never tried before. </div>
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<span style="color: purple;">MARCH 6: The Transplanted plants are hail and hearty. We haven't had any expire. </span></div>
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<span style="color: orange;">MARCH 7: I watered the plants this morning and can't believe how they love the transplanting. They have doubled in size. </span><span style="color: orange;">The ASWAD has trippled in size. </span> <span style="color: orange;">I just checked the statistics and the plants can be from 24-36 inches in height. They are racing to get there.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTtvxMBbuMJy5Gv6Obi1NvdqkXG2R-lroH2oxfnwQ-awpBtyIlpwBtHbukikjX7jeQ7Bsg3LLUFWzycwWbcI4wnJRMf0HYpKhZgA-DpdugJ3puMtqYAcMBgaLmzQheIiL41U31bfTE_dA/s1600/eggplant+Melanzana+seedlings+3-09.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br /></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTtvxMBbuMJy5Gv6Obi1NvdqkXG2R-lroH2oxfnwQ-awpBtyIlpwBtHbukikjX7jeQ7Bsg3LLUFWzycwWbcI4wnJRMf0HYpKhZgA-DpdugJ3puMtqYAcMBgaLmzQheIiL41U31bfTE_dA/s1600/eggplant+Melanzana+seedlings+3-09.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTtvxMBbuMJy5Gv6Obi1NvdqkXG2R-lroH2oxfnwQ-awpBtyIlpwBtHbukikjX7jeQ7Bsg3LLUFWzycwWbcI4wnJRMf0HYpKhZgA-DpdugJ3puMtqYAcMBgaLmzQheIiL41U31bfTE_dA/s320/eggplant+Melanzana+seedlings+3-09.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="color: lime;">MARCH 9: </span><br />
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<span style="color: lime;">I took this picture this afternoon. Look at the size difference between the two varieties (which were planted the same day and potted the same day). If the growth pattern stays the same, the Melanzana will be at least 1/3 smaller than the Aswad. </span><span style="color: lime;">You can see the lights above them. I put the transplants within an inch of the light sourse. The picture of the tray of Melanza, it was taken March 2, this is the 9th. the plants have literally jumped up in a week. </span></div>
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<span style="color: lime;">This blog will be updated with each change in Plant growth. I will be forwarding any information I have found beneficial to us.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizQQlbHDEVT2D8AGCZQNqJZ_O7cDY8fjCDWQBys4aiA32F8pVS18Kl_gFCGfC2aZ-b6xGI7BG7yQmrAtuaAq36KVLgXPorCHC4Cv-B_VjvLRaJIyZbZbWR6b9OkgAWsnt60f7wVVWu1w0/s1600/eggplant+3-20+shelf.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="272" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizQQlbHDEVT2D8AGCZQNqJZ_O7cDY8fjCDWQBys4aiA32F8pVS18Kl_gFCGfC2aZ-b6xGI7BG7yQmrAtuaAq36KVLgXPorCHC4Cv-B_VjvLRaJIyZbZbWR6b9OkgAWsnt60f7wVVWu1w0/s640/eggplant+3-20+shelf.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="color: magenta;">March 19: The shelf the eggplants are on to keep them warm. I don't know if you can tell the White plastic under the boards but that is keeping cold from coming up. There is a heating mat on it for times when it is too cool for the plants. The plastic also surrounds the whole shelf. There is a flap to pull down to keep the heat in through the night when the lights are off. The boards</span><span style="color: magenta;"> are to raise the plants to the proper height to keep them close to the lights without touching them. They will not get leggy if they are close to the lights. (the small plants on the right are red cabbages in the front and some pepper plants in the back.)</span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpEvmdO7ZdObZn30VqHpjY8VitC2vYn4YWhGzrViu4gwl8ZWKblGAMLJvfmw5U_j16oUdVvWVqyEPh_xcV3cmSVB8x6UcHbmfKAvqBieE-Kh-zVx7SSJzY9i-tH0inKqck8OxWXoS8KzY/s1600/eggplant+3-20+size.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpEvmdO7ZdObZn30VqHpjY8VitC2vYn4YWhGzrViu4gwl8ZWKblGAMLJvfmw5U_j16oUdVvWVqyEPh_xcV3cmSVB8x6UcHbmfKAvqBieE-Kh-zVx7SSJzY9i-tH0inKqck8OxWXoS8KzY/s1600/eggplant+3-20+size.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpEvmdO7ZdObZn30VqHpjY8VitC2vYn4YWhGzrViu4gwl8ZWKblGAMLJvfmw5U_j16oUdVvWVqyEPh_xcV3cmSVB8x6UcHbmfKAvqBieE-Kh-zVx7SSJzY9i-tH0inKqck8OxWXoS8KzY/s400/eggplant+3-20+size.jpg" width="400" /></a><span style="color: magenta;">This picture is some of the Aswad and Diamond eggplants. The Breyers container is there to show the size of the plants. We use the ice cream containers to measure our soil supplements with and to collect eggs. As you can see we use the styrofoam trays for drain trays. The plants in this picture were potted in these containers on March 3. I slid one out of the container and they are not root bound but they have plenty of roots. I will be moving them to new homes this week.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: small;">New blog, tutorial on how to make 5 panel Boxer
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<br />Sheepishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06867642244105284992noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670521983583754095.post-15737712173816288232013-02-26T07:02:00.002-06:002013-03-28T07:32:38.080-05:00SWEET PEPPERS<div align="justify">
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: black;">BLOG EDITED: </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: red;">MAR 4, </span><span style="color: magenta;">MAR 6, </span><span style="color: purple;">MAR 8, </span><span style="color: lime;">MAR 10, </span><span style="color: blue;">MAR 14</span></span><br />
<span style="color: black;">You will find the blog edits shown in the colors of the dates.</span><br />
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If I had a favorite vegetable in the garden it would probably be peppers. They can be a dual purpose plant. They make a fabulous foundation planting (they are a beautiful plant). They don't mind the heat reflecting off the house. In return they repay your care by producing bountiful crops of edible produce.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkpBRn2gUqbXfCo218-nHLKBHu3jHL_oJ5SqQG00HRtXP6OIG34mALgY-avUSkSsWMYT_9ij4ha22gGpd27WSC6aHuV6Kdqfhe8Nwlp_O3C5ck13HJl0HX3Ou6idf9WcmgpF-E5P0lHpk/s1600/P1030351.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkpBRn2gUqbXfCo218-nHLKBHu3jHL_oJ5SqQG00HRtXP6OIG34mALgY-avUSkSsWMYT_9ij4ha22gGpd27WSC6aHuV6Kdqfhe8Nwlp_O3C5ck13HJl0HX3Ou6idf9WcmgpF-E5P0lHpk/s320/P1030351.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
This year we are working on cleaning out our seed stash and peppers are on this list. We did order two new peppers on our seed order (we only ordered from one company this year). We are going to miss a favorite pepper because we are out of that seed. We will re-order next year.<br />
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Next year we will be adding at least one more pepper to our repertoire. "Yum yums". Burpee's Big Daddy will be on our repurchase list, this year they will be missed. The pepper on the left is Burpee's Big Daddy.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq_GI5hfeo3OMm3Odx24B3m3rxDuJtEhYfo34MHLZMkZJD04CNajrwlPINhIVJ0HuuFXeAjGDFBoeIUjOw6AhyphenhyphenW41WcNOQMNxJqM-tc3LKhQsxkoSqMr9eJ0xVPRglIS_hUwSCTDhv70U/s1600/P1040889.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq_GI5hfeo3OMm3Odx24B3m3rxDuJtEhYfo34MHLZMkZJD04CNajrwlPINhIVJ0HuuFXeAjGDFBoeIUjOw6AhyphenhyphenW41WcNOQMNxJqM-tc3LKhQsxkoSqMr9eJ0xVPRglIS_hUwSCTDhv70U/s400/P1040889.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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As you can see this is a very prolific pepper. The soil in these two beds is not up to snuff. (The organic matter ratio is off and they are too well drained. It is very difficult to keep adequate moisture in the beds.) They are still performing above and beyond expectations.<br />
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This year's list of pepper varieties:<br />
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<span style="color: #274e13;"><strong>FOOLED YOU</strong></span>: Pinetree 2012. This is a jalapeno pepper with no heat. They are extremely extremely prolific. I have found these freeze fantastically. We chop them in quarter inch dice and freeze on a cookie tray and dump into a plastic bag. I had some in the freezer for two years. When sauteed in oil I could tell no loss of flavor or change in texture.<br />
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<span style="color: #274e13;"><strong>GURNEYS DOUBLE DELIGHT: </strong></span><span style="color: black;">This is a new addition to our seed stash. We ordered it because we were out of our favorite </span><span style="color: #274e13;">"Big Bertha". </span><span style="color: black;">The description sounded similar and Gurneys doesn't handle Bertha seed. 2013</span><br />
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<span style="color: #274e13;"><strong>GURNEY'S DOUBLE DELIGHT: </strong></span><span style="color: black;">Another new pepper for us. It is described as a thick walled bull horn. It seems like a good substitute for the Big Daddy we won't have this year. The only draw back is it isn't yellow.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #274e13;"><strong> MARCONI ROSSO: </strong></span><span style="color: black;">Henry Fields 2010. This is another of the bull horns. It is three lobed, I don't know if it is thinner walled. We will be comparing these plants and the other bull horns for production, size, taste and thickness of walls.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #274e13;"><strong>GIANT MARCONI: </strong></span><span style="color: black;">Totally tomatoes 2010. This is a blockier version of the bullhorn pepper but is like the bullhorn in size, length and taste. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #274e13;"><strong>CORONO DI TORO-GIALLO:</strong> <span style="color: black;">Scheeper's 2010. Another bull horn, This one has a plus, it is yellow. Hopefully it will fill the space of the Big Daddy Pepper. Last year it did not perform well but so many things in the garden didn't because of the weather. It looks like we'll be testing a few plants of each, and giving away the seeds of the ones that don't perform to our liking. Where did we get all these, LOL. If I had taken time to proof seeds in December this year I would not have ordered seeds I already had. </span></span><a href="http://organicinstlouis.blogspot.com/2013/02/proofing-seeds.html">http://organicinstlouis.blogspot.com/2013/02/proofing-seeds.html</a><br />
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<span style="color: #274e13;"><strong><span style="color: #38761d;">QUADRATO D'ASTI ROSSO:</span></strong> Scheeper's 2007 , a thick walled large bell pepper.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d;"><strong>ACONCQUA: </strong><span style="color: black;">Saved seed, </span><strong> </strong></span><span style="color: black;">Original seed was purchased through Pinetree seeds. These did real well in the greenhouse this year. They are very prolific. They are an extremely large cubannelle type.</span><br />
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<strong><span style="font-size: large;">PEPPER SEED PLANTING</span></strong><br />
The seeds were planted in a soil less medium. I used "Activia cups" to plant them in. These were put inside a plastic bag inside our propagation chamber. The temperature will be kept at 72 degrees.<br />
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PLANTING LIST: GERMINATION TIMES<br />
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FEB 26, 2013 DATE DATE DATE DATE DATE<br />
<span style="color: red;">MAR 4 </span><span style="color: magenta;">MAR 6 </span><span style="color: purple;"> MAR 8 </span><span style="color: lime;">MAR 10 </span><span style="color: blue;">MAR 14</span><br />
FOOLED YOU <span style="color: magenta;"> 5/12 </span><span style="color: purple;"> 5/12 </span><span style="color: lime;"> 7/12 </span><span style="color: blue;">10/12 (2 MOVED) </span><br />
12 SEEDS 2012<br />
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DOUBLE DELIGHT <span style="color: red;"> 1/10 </span><span style="color: magenta;">2/10 </span><span style="color: purple;">5/10 </span><span style="color: lime;">6/10 <span style="color: blue;">8/10</span> </span><span style="color: blue;">(2 MOVED)</span><br />
Gurneys 10 seeds<br />
2013<br />
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GIANT II <span style="color: red;"> 1/10 </span><span style="color: magenta;">6/10 </span><span style="color: purple;"> 7/12 </span><span style="color: lime;">8</span><span style="color: lime;">/10 </span><span style="color: blue;">9/10 (5 MOVED)</span><br />
Gurney's 10 seeds<br />
2013<br />
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MARCONI ROSSO <span style="color: lime;"> 1/6 </span><span style="color: blue;">1/6</span><br />
H. Fields 6 seeds<br />
2010<br />
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CORONO DI TORO <span style="color: purple;"> 1/5 </span><span style="color: lime;">1/5 </span><span style="color: blue;">1/6</span><br />
GIALLO Scheepers<br />
5 seeds 2010<br />
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QUADRATO D'ASTI <span style="color: blue;">0/6</span><br />
ROSSO Scheeper's<br />
6 seeds 2007<br />
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GIANT MARCONI<br />
T.Tomatoes 4 seeds <span style="color: lime;"> 1/4 </span><span style="color: blue;">1/4</span><br />
2010<br />
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ACONCQUA <span style="color: red;"> 1/12 </span><span style="color: magenta;">3/12 </span><span style="color: purple;">5/12 </span><span style="color: lime;">6/12 </span><span style="color: blue;">8/12 (2 MOVED)</span><br />
Mine OP 12 seeds<br />
2013<br />
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<span style="color: red;"><strong>MARCH 4: </strong>Finally, I have just been over anxious for them to germinate, to see some form of life. The 3 are just peeking the surface. I pulled them out of the propagation chamber and put them under the lights. These were all 2013 seeds. I will have to be patient, I know the older seed will take longer to sprout.</span><br />
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<span style="color: magenta;">MARCH 6: Boy are these slow. I am so glad I started them ahead. The thoughts in the back of my head was I was going to have to babysit these far too long. It looks like they are right on their sprouting schedule. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk5GgIvkiT31Hag2UNvw1HHWPDz_bGPIEuF8fnmge3wUZSSicAUWYCv8V9cmeUoziXQ2fl6W6PL3REUuFp60joKH3cbgiTiihVoRMH8oQCjmDgTAYNk8XC3fuHU2NtdfRjICk2XaqEcu4/s1600/pepper+cotyledons+trapped.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br /></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk5GgIvkiT31Hag2UNvw1HHWPDz_bGPIEuF8fnmge3wUZSSicAUWYCv8V9cmeUoziXQ2fl6W6PL3REUuFp60joKH3cbgiTiihVoRMH8oQCjmDgTAYNk8XC3fuHU2NtdfRjICk2XaqEcu4/s1600/pepper+cotyledons+trapped.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="301" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk5GgIvkiT31Hag2UNvw1HHWPDz_bGPIEuF8fnmge3wUZSSicAUWYCv8V9cmeUoziXQ2fl6W6PL3REUuFp60joKH3cbgiTiihVoRMH8oQCjmDgTAYNk8XC3fuHU2NtdfRjICk2XaqEcu4/s320/pepper+cotyledons+trapped.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="color: magenta;"><span style="color: purple;"></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: magenta;"><span style="color: purple;">MARCH 8: While checking for new sprouting I noticed two of the seeds had sprouted and were turning green but they had not <strong>"POPPED THEIR SEED CASINGS OFF"</strong>. If these are not removed the plant will not mature. These beginning "leaves" are called cotyledons. I take my fingernail and clip the seed casing off. You will loose the points on these cotyledons but it will not harm the development of leaves. (btw wait till you can see that there are two cotyledons at the base before you remove it. Sometimes, a day later the seed casing will pop off itself.) The photo on the left is of the trapped cotyledon.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEickUvKe_2bUuiLxnBmMD97sE3aXOMu9yO_0j7oEozh9FgqdMb_6RBpVWhXIlVlV11ugXP0OhzhOYoAhwigN4xa2TJMw-oqhIWqy01kGmlJL-EhqxtT4g_qc_f3ds0qRgvRbIaigx_2emo/s1600/pepper+cotyledons+pinched.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br /></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEickUvKe_2bUuiLxnBmMD97sE3aXOMu9yO_0j7oEozh9FgqdMb_6RBpVWhXIlVlV11ugXP0OhzhOYoAhwigN4xa2TJMw-oqhIWqy01kGmlJL-EhqxtT4g_qc_f3ds0qRgvRbIaigx_2emo/s1600/pepper+cotyledons+pinched.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="294" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEickUvKe_2bUuiLxnBmMD97sE3aXOMu9yO_0j7oEozh9FgqdMb_6RBpVWhXIlVlV11ugXP0OhzhOYoAhwigN4xa2TJMw-oqhIWqy01kGmlJL-EhqxtT4g_qc_f3ds0qRgvRbIaigx_2emo/s320/pepper+cotyledons+pinched.jpg" width="320" /><br />
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<span style="color: purple;">The picture on the left is the cotyledon after I pinched off the seed casing. The casing can be clipped off sooner. You must remember to not pinch below the "Y" of the "leaves". Make sure there is enough growth so that you are not disturbing the base where the new growth will happen. </span><span style="color: magenta;"><span style="color: purple;">If the remaining 3 pepper varieties have not sprouted by the time I plant my tomato seeds I will plant some more of them. Two of the varieties are from 2010, they should still be viable. I am also going to plant the last of the "Giallo". I have decided I want more of this variety(and they aren't sprouting well either)</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLvr8UZfxDLXZsvopnnveAWOem-SPvXoQ-Id6_Jj7o9YhLoKhlV1JlXMT_TJDocHxsFCYZdYXzb6bcBQn_DfM7npEepT6pxazALf2lvPl7aoAS_uwC_x_3DqlnmZKKo3YeTei846Sgu_w/s1600/PEPPER+BUG+FRONT+3-10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br /></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLvr8UZfxDLXZsvopnnveAWOem-SPvXoQ-Id6_Jj7o9YhLoKhlV1JlXMT_TJDocHxsFCYZdYXzb6bcBQn_DfM7npEepT6pxazALf2lvPl7aoAS_uwC_x_3DqlnmZKKo3YeTei846Sgu_w/s1600/PEPPER+BUG+FRONT+3-10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLvr8UZfxDLXZsvopnnveAWOem-SPvXoQ-Id6_Jj7o9YhLoKhlV1JlXMT_TJDocHxsFCYZdYXzb6bcBQn_DfM7npEepT6pxazALf2lvPl7aoAS_uwC_x_3DqlnmZKKo3YeTei846Sgu_w/s1600/PEPPER+BUG+FRONT+3-10.jpg" /></a><span style="color: lime;"></span><br />
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<span style="color: lime;">MARCH 10: Two of the last three varieties sprouted. One of each, will be enough to tell me by the end of the year if I want to purchase more of that seed (bar no unforeseen accidents like ground hogs or tornadoes. Yes, we have had a tornado plow through our plants and our Green house.). I do hope the Giant Marconi will show at least one plant, too.</span><br />
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<span style="color: lime;">Giallo has not shown any more life, I will plant the remainder of the packet of seed when I plant my tomatoes next week. I want to save seed from this variety if it does well and produces the type of </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgywbjO1dilu5vrHsWq1ziG3i6mp9waE0S5dsGj_cJtVmjTcAQachAuibI3ThoxR0uxRtn1zvzdV2DI8s3tYQHjU6zasY-WzB83VSM8OHziKuem0J0p62itqlUUmLZe8tzZENLKVund3Wo/s1600/PEPPER+BUG+BACK+3-10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br /></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgywbjO1dilu5vrHsWq1ziG3i6mp9waE0S5dsGj_cJtVmjTcAQachAuibI3ThoxR0uxRtn1zvzdV2DI8s3tYQHjU6zasY-WzB83VSM8OHziKuem0J0p62itqlUUmLZe8tzZENLKVund3Wo/s1600/PEPPER+BUG+BACK+3-10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgywbjO1dilu5vrHsWq1ziG3i6mp9waE0S5dsGj_cJtVmjTcAQachAuibI3ThoxR0uxRtn1zvzdV2DI8s3tYQHjU6zasY-WzB83VSM8OHziKuem0J0p62itqlUUmLZe8tzZENLKVund3Wo/s1600/PEPPER+BUG+BACK+3-10.jpg" /></a><span style="color: lime;">pepper we enjoy. </span> <span style="color: lime;">The first three varieties in the sprouting chart are hybrids. I won't be saving seed from them but the rest we will.</span><br />
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<span style="color: lime;">This morning in the propagation chamber, I found this crawling around a newly emerged seedling. It had to have hatched in there because the plants were in a sealed plastic bag. I was wondering how a soil less mix harbored insect eggs. What I have is an off-colored Asian Lady Bug. The bane of my existence on my living room east/south windows in January.</span></div>
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<span style="color: lime;">I went to check several sites and deduced it was what I thought it was. The following site gave me some information that is extremely useful.</span><br />
<span style="color: lime;"> <a href="http://www.insectidentification.org/beetles.asp">http://www.insectidentification.org/beetles.asp</a></span></div>
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<span style="color: lime;">In my blog on using newspapers, recycling them as mulch: </span></div>
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<span style="color: lime; font-size: large;"><a href="http://glosgarden.blogspot.com/2013/03/recycling-re-using.html">http://glosgarden.blogspot.com/2013/03/recycling-re-using.html</a></span></div>
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<span style="color: lime;">I cautioned about mealy bugs (roly poly/sow) loving to nest in and eat the papers. I did not know there was a predator for them. Perusing I found this:</span></div>
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<a href="http://www.insectidentification.org/insect-description.asp?identification=Mealy-Bug-Destroyer-Larvae"><span style="font-size: x-small;">http://www.insectidentification.org/insect-description.asp?identification=Mealy-Bug-Destroyer-Larvae</span></a></div>
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<span style="color: lime;">I literally thought it was a bug that had grown some kind of mold and I dispatched him. I now know, I should have saved him.</span> </div>
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<span style="color: blue;">MARCH 14: Today is moving day, most of the seedlings have grown large enough to handle being put into their own apartments. Finding enough Activa cups for them all is hard. I can't eat it fast enough to supply the demand...LOL </span></div>
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<span style="color: blue; font-size: large;"><strong>TRANSPLANTING THE SEEDLINGS</strong></span></div>
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<span style="color: blue;">Some of the seedlings were not quite ready to transplanted. </span></div>
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<span style="color: blue;">We had to work to gently remove the larger plants from the trays.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpg7xoLKPuYR-Vs4XVPWXzrO-3jgOGEeU6NusS0afIviWKLQG3D7zSX1sGH4HiyFedAW2ZS9TqiUV2mocVIN_KjY0hBLnlx_FsYQgrCHq2AF6iMG4MU3vVEADN6OQj_8V2_nfXCyevJoA/s1600/PEPPER+3-14+TRANSPLANTING+TOOLS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br /></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpg7xoLKPuYR-Vs4XVPWXzrO-3jgOGEeU6NusS0afIviWKLQG3D7zSX1sGH4HiyFedAW2ZS9TqiUV2mocVIN_KjY0hBLnlx_FsYQgrCHq2AF6iMG4MU3vVEADN6OQj_8V2_nfXCyevJoA/s1600/PEPPER+3-14+TRANSPLANTING+TOOLS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="316" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpg7xoLKPuYR-Vs4XVPWXzrO-3jgOGEeU6NusS0afIviWKLQG3D7zSX1sGH4HiyFedAW2ZS9TqiUV2mocVIN_KjY0hBLnlx_FsYQgrCHq2AF6iMG4MU3vVEADN6OQj_8V2_nfXCyevJoA/s400/PEPPER+3-14+TRANSPLANTING+TOOLS.jpg" width="400" /></a><span style="color: blue;">First thing we do is get all the "necessaries" together. Once we begin we don't want to have to go looking for items to work with. Clockwise: Hershey's syrup bottle with luke warm water, Drinking water bottle for me, Cat litter box of mixed dirt for transplanting, gallon jug with the fish emulsion mixed in the water, (scissors, pens, glue stick, note book, labels, paper, phone, TV gizmos, eye glasses). Plants, tiny instruments for transplanting, Pots, paper towels.</span><br />
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<span style="color: blue;">HERSHEY'S BOTTLE: This holds luke warm water to water the seedlings in when we have to disturb them to remove a friend.</span></div>
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<span style="color: blue;">DRINKING WATER FOR ME (Self explanatory)</span></div>
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<span style="color: blue;">KITTY LITTER BUCKET: We re-use and re-cycle lots of items. This oval one was perfect for mixing our soil for transplanting in. <span style="color: blue;">What is our soil mix. In a large wheel barrow we mix one part soil with one part peat moss, with 1/2
part sand, 1/2 part of our dried manure from goats/sheep/cow and one part rice
hulls. When this is well mixed we add a quart of Epsom salts and a quart of
bone meal to a large wheel barrow of the mix. This is then stored to use for
potting. </span>We take equal
amounts of this and our soil less mix and mix them together. This is what we
use for the first transplanting. </span></div>
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<span style="color: blue;">GALLON JUG OF FISH EMULSION: We mix 3 tablespoons of emulsion with the gallon of luke warm water. </span></div>
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<span style="color: blue;">SECRETARIAL GROUPING: The TV gizmo's are for listening to programs while I am doing what can be a repetitive dull job (did you notice they are in a plastic bag? this serves to keep them clean. They still work through the plastic). The phone is in case I receive a call. Glasses..I am at an age where things are very blurry. Glue stick to apply those labels to the containers.</span></div>
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<span style="color: blue;">PLANTS: They are why we are going through this.</span></div>
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<span style="color: blue;">POTS: The infamous Activia cups prepared for use. (notice the re-used Styrofoam trays from the meat department.</span></div>
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<span style="color: blue;">SMALL TOOLS: I keep an eye out for things that will work for transplanting. A hibachi fork, a small butter knife, a tiny fork used for ordourves, and a tiny spoon (I think it used to be a artificial sweetener scoop).</span></div>
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<span style="color: blue;">PAPER TOWELLS</span></div>
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<span style="color: blue;">HAND PROTECTION:</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinHPuQyqUiOKD5hBRcNXIRJnQmD5jpUbA1cTqR2jzElXc9zPGaRSdJgqMB9Hl6rVACKPJSAhK2s9k5dpsAyvKmd97qTf_IatdiPjx6Q2Dae6xKXpGxJyYmHZdxnQZ05ajQUqsuMGr6yas/s1600/PEPPER+3-14+TRANSPLANTING+TOOLS+GLOVES.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="158" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinHPuQyqUiOKD5hBRcNXIRJnQmD5jpUbA1cTqR2jzElXc9zPGaRSdJgqMB9Hl6rVACKPJSAhK2s9k5dpsAyvKmd97qTf_IatdiPjx6Q2Dae6xKXpGxJyYmHZdxnQZ05ajQUqsuMGr6yas/s200/PEPPER+3-14+TRANSPLANTING+TOOLS+GLOVES.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="color: blue;">I forgot to mention one important necessary for me. Plastic gloves. I cannot stand to touch dirt. The feel of it under my nails or drying on my hands is very uncomfortable. Writing about the idea is giving me the chills....LOL. I get my box of gloves every year from my dentist. They seem to be heavier than the regular doctors gloves. I always request them in my favorite color and they are silicone and talcum free. I can wear them quite a few uses before they have fatigue. I just turn them inside out and give them a wash and let them dry. Then when I need them I just turn them back to right side out and happily work in the dirt.</span> </div>
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<span style="color: blue;">SQUIRT BOTTLES:</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1uRB-1vzntdR_mYs7LLZf-jmpeE8dkwO4b57D4d8Ef5zzqpYovCqPSoPlFOu-CcH2yYKSi1s939zYotukI0gTtiep6Xl7Dxt2bIdZgmcCzV82eNznUOJkXglIGDwFt1hiT9-BOvpjleE/s1600/TOOLS+FISH+EMULSION+BOTTLE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br /></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1uRB-1vzntdR_mYs7LLZf-jmpeE8dkwO4b57D4d8Ef5zzqpYovCqPSoPlFOu-CcH2yYKSi1s939zYotukI0gTtiep6Xl7Dxt2bIdZgmcCzV82eNznUOJkXglIGDwFt1hiT9-BOvpjleE/s1600/TOOLS+FISH+EMULSION+BOTTLE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1uRB-1vzntdR_mYs7LLZf-jmpeE8dkwO4b57D4d8Ef5zzqpYovCqPSoPlFOu-CcH2yYKSi1s939zYotukI0gTtiep6Xl7Dxt2bIdZgmcCzV82eNznUOJkXglIGDwFt1hiT9-BOvpjleE/s200/TOOLS+FISH+EMULSION+BOTTLE.jpg" width="93" /></a><span style="color: blue;">Another item which is recycled not trashed. Th</span><span style="color: blue;">e Joy bottle is for applying the fish emulsion to the newly planted plants. Using the small bottle with a nozzle gives control and you don't flood the plants or wash them out of their pots. Watering in with the fish emulsion instead of water gives the plants a boost which is much needed to help them over the transplanting shock.</span><br />
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<span style="color: blue; font-size: large;"><strong>READY TO BEGIN</strong></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEiCjGyh7UWw-vPPSaYRp2gJ1okp7fkDd2fYdJhJByIirlMkum0J03WKlubl5dSZFmOUa6zZMI3aautdFSI7cAfv-wgMlE1D87iPUFM3LNFDAO3D-d9UAy2NDojr0j__YzVlqrZ4kFLuc/s1600/PEPPER+3-14+TRANSPLANTING+PINCHED+LEAF+SAMPLE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="284" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEiCjGyh7UWw-vPPSaYRp2gJ1okp7fkDd2fYdJhJByIirlMkum0J03WKlubl5dSZFmOUa6zZMI3aautdFSI7cAfv-wgMlE1D87iPUFM3LNFDAO3D-d9UAy2NDojr0j__YzVlqrZ4kFLuc/s320/PEPPER+3-14+TRANSPLANTING+PINCHED+LEAF+SAMPLE.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="color: blue;"></span></div>
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<span style="color: blue;">Remember the plant which had the trapped cotyledon? This is not the same one, but the plant on the left (see the leaf that looks stunted) is one I pinched off the seed casing. You can see the growth of the new true leaves </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSg4RdR2GvDtHr9g04Mwev_X9EBd06TLpSFHM9jjmv_VxRbM4mkBksGeOsxxkhSP95hG1JtUENZXr9z6HoTQnoPig2sVgyotr2EXka-5rVj4tlwOy7bZ3AnziInkM6pxKpc8jsGw95uog/s1600/PEPPER+3-14+TRANSPLANTING+BEFORE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br /></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSg4RdR2GvDtHr9g04Mwev_X9EBd06TLpSFHM9jjmv_VxRbM4mkBksGeOsxxkhSP95hG1JtUENZXr9z6HoTQnoPig2sVgyotr2EXka-5rVj4tlwOy7bZ3AnziInkM6pxKpc8jsGw95uog/s1600/PEPPER+3-14+TRANSPLANTING+BEFORE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="162" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSg4RdR2GvDtHr9g04Mwev_X9EBd06TLpSFHM9jjmv_VxRbM4mkBksGeOsxxkhSP95hG1JtUENZXr9z6HoTQnoPig2sVgyotr2EXka-5rVj4tlwOy7bZ3AnziInkM6pxKpc8jsGw95uog/s200/PEPPER+3-14+TRANSPLANTING+BEFORE.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="color: blue;">This crowded pot on the left, has one over grown candidate to extract. For demonstration I will use another pot where all the plants need new homes. The picture below is the pot with the peppers gently removed. I do not water for 12 hours before so the loose medium will fall apart. If it is stubborn and too rooted together, then I set the in a bowl of luke warm water until the medium is loosened up.</span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijqyzib1yRoFgS2BxRM39tIrkXCiGnNPU8I0YJo59bHnb385RqZqNeSeHpYBdIihpcjOcrUahnXdMuoIWEK78Q5yckRplY289RF6rwsxTAb4obMhxOzGshC3RV5to9rD6fNmhkoDRhytg/s1600/PEPPER+3-14+TRANSPLANTING+REMOVED+FROM+POT.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="236" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijqyzib1yRoFgS2BxRM39tIrkXCiGnNPU8I0YJo59bHnb385RqZqNeSeHpYBdIihpcjOcrUahnXdMuoIWEK78Q5yckRplY289RF6rwsxTAb4obMhxOzGshC3RV5to9rD6fNmhkoDRhytg/s320/PEPPER+3-14+TRANSPLANTING+REMOVED+FROM+POT.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="color: blue;"> </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI1FXxLkPJiBwVkafXkcdDZkib0-PXloXWTRwlt5KSPMJzN06ogJlE5oXW6VHJm2kn82pNVDazaDsXjI681riXeheLgCa4jSn9ns3ajdps9kvX4jX-Pc5A9GpJA7b6S8B0sgNVAtCOQIM/s1600/PEPPER+3-14+TRANSPLANTING+REPOTTED.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="137" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI1FXxLkPJiBwVkafXkcdDZkib0-PXloXWTRwlt5KSPMJzN06ogJlE5oXW6VHJm2kn82pNVDazaDsXjI681riXeheLgCa4jSn9ns3ajdps9kvX4jX-Pc5A9GpJA7b6S8B0sgNVAtCOQIM/s320/PEPPER+3-14+TRANSPLANTING+REPOTTED.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="color: blue;">These are the plants in their new apartments. I used the seedling tray for the smallest seedling since we are low on activia cups. I will probably have to transplant it again sooner than the other plants. </span></div>
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<span style="color: black;">We have </span><span style="color: black;">already started our eggplant and broccoli plants. </span></div>
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<span style="color: black;">Check this blog's directory under the label "seed starting". </span></div>
<br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: medium;">For more blogs by
me, visit at:</span></span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://gloriouscreations.blogspot.com/" style="background-color: white; color: #4d469c;"><span style="font-size: large;">http://gloriouscreations.blogspot.com</span></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: medium;">A blog mostly about quilting, </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: medium;">but cooking, poetry, prose and a little
gardening,</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: medium;">New blog, tutorial on how to make 5 panel Boxer
Shorts.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: medium;">New Blog about dolls.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<a href="http://glosgarden.blogspot.com/" style="color: #4d469c;"><span style="color: purple;"><span style="font-size: large;">http://glosgarden.blogspot.com/</span></span></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Not a garden blog. </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: medium;">There are
articles which have nothing to do </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: medium;">with creating or
gardening. </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: medium;">There are blogs on the new born baby kittens
</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: medium;">we found and
mothered. </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: medium;">It is a blog where I voice my opinions which will
always be environmentally friendly.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: medium;"></span><span style="color: #4c1130;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #cc0000;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: red;"> As always, any pictures or writings are my own. </span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="color: black; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: red;"><span style="color: #4c1130;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #cc0000;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Credit has been given to contributions not my
own.</span></span></span></span></div>
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Please do not</span><span style="color: red;"><span style="color: #4c1130;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #cc0000;"><span style="font-size: medium;"> use without
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Sheepishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06867642244105284992noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670521983583754095.post-16014701702102353792013-02-18T09:36:00.004-06:002015-04-27T06:28:05.198-05:00BROCCOLI<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: red; font-size: large;">EDITED:</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: red;">February 21, </span><span style="color: purple;">February 22, </span><span style="color: blue;">February 24, </span><span style="color: magenta;">March 3, </span><span style="color: lime;">March 15</span></span><br />
<span style="color: orange; font-size: large;">MARCH 19</span><br />
Today I filled containers and planted the seeds we had. </div>
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This blog will be updated just like I am doing in my eggplant blog. </div>
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<a href="http://organicinstlouis.blogspot.com/2013/02/eggplant.html">http://organicinstlouis.blogspot.com/2013/02/eggplant.html</a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxt6VFCBna8WQXvx-Pxj_WCGxoqpoKXGFcrfRHdSE8PvLeDgObfR8g1mlKhE4AiKJk8RkQgKICRkDBscyjjw7EfZKpC6r5FOslzs8eTEyV1vZ3LojGEcj1BEpvVxc8qO1xWqSsQvsiveM/s1600/BROCCOLI+seedlings+waltham+mar+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxt6VFCBna8WQXvx-Pxj_WCGxoqpoKXGFcrfRHdSE8PvLeDgObfR8g1mlKhE4AiKJk8RkQgKICRkDBscyjjw7EfZKpC6r5FOslzs8eTEyV1vZ3LojGEcj1BEpvVxc8qO1xWqSsQvsiveM/s1600/BROCCOLI+seedlings+waltham+mar+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxt6VFCBna8WQXvx-Pxj_WCGxoqpoKXGFcrfRHdSE8PvLeDgObfR8g1mlKhE4AiKJk8RkQgKICRkDBscyjjw7EfZKpC6r5FOslzs8eTEyV1vZ3LojGEcj1BEpvVxc8qO1xWqSsQvsiveM/s400/BROCCOLI+seedlings+waltham+mar+2.jpg" height="365" width="400" /></a><br />
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This blog will share how we handle the transplanting of plants until they are ready to go into the garden. The ones in this photo are Waltham 29. As you can see they are too tall. This means they also have well developed root systems that match the length of the greenery. </div>
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I will have to use a very delicate touch when I move them. They are very crisp and will snap easily. The other obstacle is the entangled roots. I will put the dirt ball in a shallow dish half filled with warm water. After it has set for a few minutes the roots will slide right out of the potting mix. These plants in the tray are exactly 2 weeks old (14 days after the seed was planted).</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGfVCf2lJkRWixgY5sJdptacdtzI0Q-trN7efYO7yLEORKxHKFAFsm3RIDY4EtZAYGt2oAqGCzeXJbG3D0NBoy7J-91yTAjyXDde63LrKL-cWs3Y8fVOfsx6aBgMPZJuxmzF4ivjoJnOo/s1600/eggplant+Melanzana+seedlings+3-02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGfVCf2lJkRWixgY5sJdptacdtzI0Q-trN7efYO7yLEORKxHKFAFsm3RIDY4EtZAYGt2oAqGCzeXJbG3D0NBoy7J-91yTAjyXDde63LrKL-cWs3Y8fVOfsx6aBgMPZJuxmzF4ivjoJnOo/s1600/eggplant+Melanzana+seedlings+3-02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGfVCf2lJkRWixgY5sJdptacdtzI0Q-trN7efYO7yLEORKxHKFAFsm3RIDY4EtZAYGt2oAqGCzeXJbG3D0NBoy7J-91yTAjyXDde63LrKL-cWs3Y8fVOfsx6aBgMPZJuxmzF4ivjoJnOo/s320/eggplant+Melanzana+seedlings+3-02.jpg" height="320" width="304" /></a>These are eggplant seedlings in the picture on the right, which shows how I soak them to remove them from the potting mix. In the above photo you will see Activia cups. We love to use free stuff in our garden. It keeps it out of the land fills. Sometimes, as in this instance, we find an item which serves our purpose better than the store bought ones. The Activia cup is the ideal size to move the seedlings into for their first home. We cut the rim off for convenience. The rim takes up room in the tray under the lights. We use those gray handle Fiskar's squeeze scissors to cut it off. Leave the advertising paper on the plastic. It adds strength to the container and gives a great surface for applying the lable you make. You need to poke holes in the bottom for drainage. Use a sharp implement. I used a fondue fork. There is a raised section on the bottom of the pot. you need to put your holes in this. If you put them in the section the pot sits on the tray then it won't drain properly. There are lots of commercially designed pots but we have found they are usually too big and require too much dirt. </div>
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Speaking of dirt. </div>
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We use the Activia cups because they are deep and narrow. They do not require a large amount of our soil mix. What is our soil mix. We mix one part soil with one part peat moss, with 1/2 part sand, 1/2 part of our dried manure from goats/sheep/cow and one part rice hulls. When this is well mixed we add a quart of Epsom salts and a quart of bone meal to a large wheel barrow of the mix. This is then stored to use for potting. </div>
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We take equal amounts of this mixture and our soil less mix and mix them together. This is what we use for the first transplanting. </div>
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<span style="color: red;">ALERT: WHEN YOU REMOVE THE RING ON THE ACTIVIA CUP PLEASE CLIP ONE SIDE SO IT IS BROKEN. PLASTIC RINGS, IN LAND FILLS, STRANGLE WILDLIFE W. (DON'T FORGET THE ONES ON TOP OF YOUR MILK CARTONS.) THANK YOU FOR PROTECTING THOSE WHO CAN'T PROTECT THEMSELVES.</span></div>
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Even though some of the seed is very old I did not take the time to proof it.<br />
<a href="http://organicinstlouis.blogspot.com/2013/02/proofing-seeds.html">http://organicinstlouis.blogspot.com/2013/02/proofing-seeds.html</a><br />
I just planted more of each variety. I hope I am not disappointed in the number of plants that grow. I planted 32 seeds of each variety in 16 holes in the containers.</div>
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<span style="color: red;"> Date </span><span style="color: purple;">Date </span><span style="color: blue;">Date </span><span style="color: magenta;">Date </span><span style="color: lime;">Date</span></div>
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<span style="color: red;"> Feb 21 </span><span style="color: purple;">Feb 22 </span><span style="color: blue;">Feb 24 </span><span style="color: magenta;">Mar 3 </span><span style="color: lime;">Mar 15</span></div>
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DATE</div>
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HY CORONADO CROWN</div>
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GURNEY'S 2007 2-16 </div>
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HY PACKMAN</div>
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GURNEY'S 2007 2-17</div>
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GREEN GOLIATH</div>
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SHUMWAY 2007 2-17 <span style="color: blue;">1/32 </span><span style="color: magenta;">1/32</span></div>
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HY PREMIUM CROP</div>
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HENRY FIELDS 2009 2-17 <span style="color: purple;">11/32 </span><span style="color: blue;">18/32 </span><span style="color: magenta;">24/32</span></div>
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HYBRID ARCADIA</div>
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HENRY FIELDS 2010 2-17 <span style="color: red;">12/32 </span><span style="color: purple;">17/32 </span><span style="color: blue;">21/32 </span><span style="color: magenta;">26/32 </span><span style="color: lime;">28/32</span></div>
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WALTHAM 29 OP</div>
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BAKER CREEK 2012 2-17 <span style="color: red;">31/32 </span><span style="color: blue;">31/32 </span><span style="color: magenta;"> 31/32</span></div>
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We decided in 2012 we were going to try a non hybrid to see what the production rates of it were compared to the Varieties we were growing for the last 5 years. </div>
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<span style="color: red;">FEBRUARY 21: This was a total surprise. It's only been 5 days and from the looks of the 1 inch high plants they grew yesterday during the day. I checked on the 20 at 6 AM and there was no sign of growth. This morning at 6 AM I had inch high plants. They are under a small goose neck light to give them a little warmth and lots of light till I can take them down to the barn to the grow lights.</span></div>
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<span style="color: purple;">FEBRUARY 22: It look likes things are starting to sprout. I was pleased to see another tray. BTW.. I found a better wrapping for the seed trays when they are in the propagation chamber (other than plastic wrap). There is a zip lock bag which has a box bottom in it. It allows for the height of the tray I am using. A gallon size will accommodate three of the trays (recycled plastic trays from chocolate covered graham crackers). They are the bags with the zipper slides. </span></div>
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<span style="color: purple;">An important note. Watch your trays for molds. If that starts to happen uncover your tray...then monitor it closely for dehydration.</span></div>
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<span style="color: purple;">When your trays start to sprout remove them from the chamber and put them under light immediately. Use a strong light source. If you don't have a set up of grow lights you can use incandescent lamps. Right now my plants are under two old fashioned goose neck lamps with the bulbs positioned about 4 inches above the plants. Monitor your plants to make sure your lights aren't too hot. Monitor for moisture too. Keep the surface nice and on the moist side of damp, you probably have some seeds which haven't sprouted.</span></div>
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<span style="color: purple;">Be sure to check your chamber twice a day. If they start sprouting they will get leggy, looking for light within 24 hours. </span></div>
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<span style="color: purple;">Finally we have something to get excited about. Our Eggplant sprouted last week and some of our cabbage sprouted yesterday.</span></div>
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<a href="http://organicinstlouis.blogspot.com/2013/02/eggplant.html">http://organicinstlouis.blogspot.com/2013/02/eggplant.html</a></div>
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<span style="color: blue;">February 24: The Waltham which has almost 100 % germination, is not because 31/32 grew but because I hadn't realized I had dropped a couple of extra seeds when I was planting (I.E. one hole has 3 plants in it...LOL) and some holes have only germinated 1 plant. The seeds which germinated 3 days ago have really nice first leaves. </span></div>
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<span style="color: magenta;">March 3: Moving day. The Waltham 29 I moved yesterday. The rest will be moved today. They will have a new blog too. Will post the link when I write it later today.</span></div>
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</a><span style="color: lime;">Mar 15: Today I transplanted the Arcadia Broccoli again (first potting was March 3). The picture on the left is from March 3. The seed was sewn on February 17. The Styrofoam potting container is produced by the company "Speedling". I found this article about them. They do promote good root growth. The only problem I have with them is the soil seems to dry out quicker in them. I think it is due to the increased surface area. We also have larger celled Trays and they have the same problem with dehydration. It does insulate the roots well keeping them at a stable temperature. </span><br />
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<span style="color: lime;"> <a href="http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/4689/seed-starting-in-speedling-trays">http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/4689/seed-starting-in-speedling-trays</a></span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggPXtWrWLF6GMYeBnmb7ruOAOMa-VRAqDRsNZKQDQ1w5wJ0SRXU_-d_TcQO8p9ZiVizQmWfJ3DS81CxTj5zeASe47rVeXVCkV8dmASfrZu_2nMc8jcaQF4QcKkYjmZPCBjdzb9eZpvT6Y/s1600/BROCCOLI+3-15+ARCADIA+BEFORE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggPXtWrWLF6GMYeBnmb7ruOAOMa-VRAqDRsNZKQDQ1w5wJ0SRXU_-d_TcQO8p9ZiVizQmWfJ3DS81CxTj5zeASe47rVeXVCkV8dmASfrZu_2nMc8jcaQF4QcKkYjmZPCBjdzb9eZpvT6Y/s320/BROCCOLI+3-15+ARCADIA+BEFORE.jpg" height="172" width="320" /></a><span style="color: lime;">This</span> <span style="color: lime;">is the Arcadia Broccoli on March 15 ready to be transplanted to a larger home. The roots are beginning to peek out the drainage hole. It has 14 days since the first potting. The following pictures a plant plug when I removed it from the tray. The second picture is the plug and I have disturbed the roots gently with the point of a Chop stick before I put it in its new home.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxJvZIwH2U-VLqK5hPVceBhiwi8ZdU0zTSSl90xpiGi13bxOnnXe_cts4nAiG5WLNleyDmryV81uRzlMLa8I_asV1lBF0TDVFZ0leYk4TmPZ3E3pFH5ly0aT4RcJbZd7PzEhO3BFy1lgw/s1600/BROCCOLI+3-15+ROOT+MASS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br /></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxJvZIwH2U-VLqK5hPVceBhiwi8ZdU0zTSSl90xpiGi13bxOnnXe_cts4nAiG5WLNleyDmryV81uRzlMLa8I_asV1lBF0TDVFZ0leYk4TmPZ3E3pFH5ly0aT4RcJbZd7PzEhO3BFy1lgw/s1600/BROCCOLI+3-15+ROOT+MASS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxJvZIwH2U-VLqK5hPVceBhiwi8ZdU0zTSSl90xpiGi13bxOnnXe_cts4nAiG5WLNleyDmryV81uRzlMLa8I_asV1lBF0TDVFZ0leYk4TmPZ3E3pFH5ly0aT4RcJbZd7PzEhO3BFy1lgw/s400/BROCCOLI+3-15+ROOT+MASS.jpg" height="205" width="400" /><br />
</a><span style="color: lime;"></span><br />
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<span style="color: lime;">Notice the well developed roots in just 2 weeks. The cells are 2 inches wide by just under 2 inches deep.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWff41K_8In67M26PC5v009-rplG-MY8-MrFUJILHFOmDvxA-P7TLH0YG3MRPKaTyxYa57GOcq6fI2DwtGvBxWL1sgAxdeDMWHO4S1YX-x4s8mvKhE0nYemDHqJOttNcMXabIOfzfpAzk/s1600/BROCCOLI+3-15+ROOT+MASS+CHOP+STICK.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWff41K_8In67M26PC5v009-rplG-MY8-MrFUJILHFOmDvxA-P7TLH0YG3MRPKaTyxYa57GOcq6fI2DwtGvBxWL1sgAxdeDMWHO4S1YX-x4s8mvKhE0nYemDHqJOttNcMXabIOfzfpAzk/s1600/BROCCOLI+3-15+ROOT+MASS+CHOP+STICK.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWff41K_8In67M26PC5v009-rplG-MY8-MrFUJILHFOmDvxA-P7TLH0YG3MRPKaTyxYa57GOcq6fI2DwtGvBxWL1sgAxdeDMWHO4S1YX-x4s8mvKhE0nYemDHqJOttNcMXabIOfzfpAzk/s320/BROCCOLI+3-15+ROOT+MASS+CHOP+STICK.jpg" height="149" width="320" /></a><span style="color: lime;">I am disturbing the roots gently with a chop stick. This helps them to not be root bound when they are put in their new homes. When I know I am going to transplant plants I water them heavily the day before. That way they have a chance to absorb a drink before they are going to have damage done to them by the transplanting. (No matter how careful you are you inflict some damage.) Doing it 24 hours in advance insures you won't have a sopping mess to try to transplant.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMR2FQYSULuk4-2IBHRPwc6LlJiMH0NE83hwZbr-oavHcXXXkFkAQ79QEx94F1m4Tls75tCMzjy5SU_9RF0yqw7bmpN73pEF1qAhd8yEsHsRh_k6dFqdWW81EbA9XbQHXEBNV8ERM_rKg/s1600/TOOLS+POTTING+SYSTEM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><br /></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMR2FQYSULuk4-2IBHRPwc6LlJiMH0NE83hwZbr-oavHcXXXkFkAQ79QEx94F1m4Tls75tCMzjy5SU_9RF0yqw7bmpN73pEF1qAhd8yEsHsRh_k6dFqdWW81EbA9XbQHXEBNV8ERM_rKg/s1600/TOOLS+POTTING+SYSTEM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMR2FQYSULuk4-2IBHRPwc6LlJiMH0NE83hwZbr-oavHcXXXkFkAQ79QEx94F1m4Tls75tCMzjy5SU_9RF0yqw7bmpN73pEF1qAhd8yEsHsRh_k6dFqdWW81EbA9XbQHXEBNV8ERM_rKg/s320/TOOLS+POTTING+SYSTEM.jpg" height="212" width="320" /></a><span style="color: lime;">This is their new home. It is another potting system we enjoy using. The "pots" are mostly biodegradable.</span> <span style="color: lime;">I really enjoy using these. The baskets which hold the square containers unhinges on the corners and stores flat. The pots are sent to you flat. No one said but I bet the designer had planted in cardboard milk cartons before. I have used them and achieve the same results. (Getting all those smaller milk cartons is difficult).</span> <span style="color: lime;">These are the product and design of Hummerts in St. Louis. The following is the link to the page describing them.</span><br />
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<a href="http://www.hummert.com/ProductDetail.aspx?Page=ProductList.aspx&ID=8883&C=14">http://www.hummert.com/ProductDetail.aspx?Page=ProductList.aspx&ID=8883&C=14</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxSMkKgWZzgTLIH9RbZVqZYdusUCBZInjAMBShJrp6Yxe909xX0D7x2v_0qp6hW1zEc0arlxQRnBPWVjlGyr428Zcucim4Cavtzr1NNBUPlMuk4DL8lKXDePIXaSyM46Vz6PFUKlW_7bQ/s1600/BROCCOLI+3-15+ARCADIA+after.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br /></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxSMkKgWZzgTLIH9RbZVqZYdusUCBZInjAMBShJrp6Yxe909xX0D7x2v_0qp6hW1zEc0arlxQRnBPWVjlGyr428Zcucim4Cavtzr1NNBUPlMuk4DL8lKXDePIXaSyM46Vz6PFUKlW_7bQ/s1600/BROCCOLI+3-15+ARCADIA+after.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxSMkKgWZzgTLIH9RbZVqZYdusUCBZInjAMBShJrp6Yxe909xX0D7x2v_0qp6hW1zEc0arlxQRnBPWVjlGyr428Zcucim4Cavtzr1NNBUPlMuk4DL8lKXDePIXaSyM46Vz6PFUKlW_7bQ/s320/BROCCOLI+3-15+ARCADIA+after.jpg" height="241" width="320" /></a><span style="color: lime;">This is the Arcadia Broccoli snuggled into their new accommodations. There is plenty of room in the six inch deep pots for their roots to grow with out being root bound. (The pots are only 2x2 so they are giving maximum root space without using a lot of soil. </span><span style="color: lime;">This is one reason why I like to plant in the quart cardboard milk cartons. You have room for the roots to stretch out. Another great planting re-cycle is the tall drink cups you get at the gas stations. (Just remember you need to drill holes in the bottom.) </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrfbONnN9VZR1ObsbPCVpa0CXE7U8rdnKtQzDBXAkX3tdNgoVQ46amAaC8qJKipYKSIED1a4Pj2YO5UFv8wbe1fSNM8wSLmhkUfWPa0sM0HYqa5xqzZl4b0smF3BukhIqMKCAb6LsD9nM/s1600/TOOLS+FISH+EMULSION+BOTTLE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrfbONnN9VZR1ObsbPCVpa0CXE7U8rdnKtQzDBXAkX3tdNgoVQ46amAaC8qJKipYKSIED1a4Pj2YO5UFv8wbe1fSNM8wSLmhkUfWPa0sM0HYqa5xqzZl4b0smF3BukhIqMKCAb6LsD9nM/s1600/TOOLS+FISH+EMULSION+BOTTLE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrfbONnN9VZR1ObsbPCVpa0CXE7U8rdnKtQzDBXAkX3tdNgoVQ46amAaC8qJKipYKSIED1a4Pj2YO5UFv8wbe1fSNM8wSLmhkUfWPa0sM0HYqa5xqzZl4b0smF3BukhIqMKCAb6LsD9nM/s200/TOOLS+FISH+EMULSION+BOTTLE.jpg" height="200" width="93" /></a><span style="color: lime;">In our garden we try to re-use and re-cycle as much as we can. This 15 ounce detergent bottle contains fish emulsion. It is the ideal size and the nozzle is perfect for watering the small cells so it doesn't drown or wash out the tiny plants. We also re-use the Hershey syrup bottles with plain water in them. Tomorrow I will post the rest about transplanting the broccoli. It got late and I wasn't able to finish taking pictures... </span><span style="color: purple;">Today is March 16, We transplanted the Waltham 29 into their second homes. They had become so big I had to use larger containers. I could have gotten away with the ones you see above but would have had to transplant again within 2 weeks. So I used the next size up. It's supposed to snow maybe 5 inches tonight. I was so looking forward to the ground finally drying out and warming up. The snow won't last though, we are going to get rain right after it. That could spell lots of ice. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIEipwOuM43oIkmJmtKpocZWVtbcj3HPYIf82jFGwbw0xL9WQPyEqOz5lJNkvZQjx5fMazuYvozHy9E1XJQs2pMvzfajiWGm26eLxxIy5papRkkUXkMuz9l8D8CwTsRid8e76m1fUS0F4/s1600/BROCCOLIs+waltham+mar+20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIEipwOuM43oIkmJmtKpocZWVtbcj3HPYIf82jFGwbw0xL9WQPyEqOz5lJNkvZQjx5fMazuYvozHy9E1XJQs2pMvzfajiWGm26eLxxIy5papRkkUXkMuz9l8D8CwTsRid8e76m1fUS0F4/s640/BROCCOLIs+waltham+mar+20.jpg" height="283" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: orange;">MARCH 19: The Waltham Broccoli in the first picture moved to their new homes. For size comparison, the wooden box on the far right is a coke bottle carrier. This is only 16 days since they were potted up on March 3. 30 plants made the move. The weather here has been deplorable. If it isn't raining it is snowing. No matter what it does the thermometer is pegged on 30 degrees...My garden is a soggy mess that is frozen 4 inches under the muck. These homes should suffice till the ground becomes workable. </span></div>
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<span style="color: orange;">Did you notice the masking tape around the top of the pots.? I put it there to hold the plants upright so they wouldn't topple over (they are all taped together). I didn't want to use the large trays for them. Using the Styrofoam trays I am able to move the plants away from the light source when their leaves start to touch the lights.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9nWrkGCWbiNJ0cKlJN6soWC1LxAuDUa0ovXbU8FUwVcC_uySoETN4diFNdoGjUWEKuTn5G__t-drhBjG5Pt5i2bDLVwJug8USPSuYxsaTLgstUm-9guuyHk2-xZsymoaPC8KdSETxOFI/s1600/TOOLS+PLANT+STAND.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br /></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9nWrkGCWbiNJ0cKlJN6soWC1LxAuDUa0ovXbU8FUwVcC_uySoETN4diFNdoGjUWEKuTn5G__t-drhBjG5Pt5i2bDLVwJug8USPSuYxsaTLgstUm-9guuyHk2-xZsymoaPC8KdSETxOFI/s1600/TOOLS+PLANT+STAND.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9nWrkGCWbiNJ0cKlJN6soWC1LxAuDUa0ovXbU8FUwVcC_uySoETN4diFNdoGjUWEKuTn5G__t-drhBjG5Pt5i2bDLVwJug8USPSuYxsaTLgstUm-9guuyHk2-xZsymoaPC8KdSETxOFI/s400/TOOLS+PLANT+STAND.jpg" height="400" width="288" /></a><span style="color: orange;">The picture on the left is our light set up for raising our plants.We recycled a bakers rack we found discarded behind a restaurant. The shelves are not adjustable so we raise and lower the plants with boards and other things we have in the barn.</span><br />
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It's a little early to discuss pest control for Brassicas but I thought it would give you time to think about how you are going to tackle them. Our means to combat the cabbage worms is to use "BT". We do so very carefully. "BT" is supposed to be environmentally friendly, but a warning. When using it you should wear a mask or make sure the wind isn't blowing. The conditions in your lungs are the same conditions this bacteria likes to grow. </div>
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It is not dangerous to eat the vegetables after they have been sprayed. It is effective on all caterpillars. You do not want to use it on flowers or vegetables which are eaten by beneficial insects which start their lives out as a caterpillar.</div>
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BT does have a draw back. If you have a rain or a heavy dew you will have to respray. The moisture washes the bacteria off the plant. The best time to spray is after the morning dew is evaporated.</div>
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The advantage of this spray is, you do not need to use it until you see the worms. So if you don't have them don't spray.</div>
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<strong><em>Bacillus thuringiensis</em></strong></div>
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<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bacillus_thuringiensis">http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bacillus_thuringiensis</a></div>
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May you not have any ground hogs in your neighborhood...they adore Broccoli.</div>
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<span style="color: red;">Break the circle of death, </span></div>
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<span style="color: red;"></span><br />
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<span style="color: red;">Break all plastic circles.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: medium;">For more blogs by
me, visit at:</span></span></div>
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<a href="http://gloriouscreations.blogspot.com/" style="background-color: white; color: #4d469c;"><span style="font-size: large;">http://gloriouscreations.blogspot.com</span></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: medium;">A blog mostly about quilting, </span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: black; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: medium;">but cooking, poetry, prose and a little
gardening,</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: medium;">New blog, tutorial on how to make 5 panel Boxer
Shorts.</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: medium;">New Blog about dolls.</span></span></div>
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<br />
<a href="http://glosgarden.blogspot.com/" style="color: #4d469c;"><span style="color: purple;"><span style="font-size: large;">http://glosgarden.blogspot.com/</span></span></a><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Not a garden blog. </span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: medium;">There are
articles which have nothing to do </span></span></div>
<div style="color: black; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: medium;">with creating or
gardening. </span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: medium;">There are blogs on the new born baby kittens </span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: medium;">we found and
mothered. </span></span></div>
<div style="color: black; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"></span><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: medium;">It is a blog where I voice my opinions which will
always be environmentally friendly.</span></span></div>
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<div style="color: black; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: medium;"></span><span style="color: #4c1130;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #cc0000;"><span style="font-size: medium;">As always, any pictures or writings are my own. </span></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #4c1130;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #cc0000;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Credit has been given to contributions not my
own.</span></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #4c1130;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #cc0000;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Please do not use without
permission.</span></span></span></div>
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Sheepishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06867642244105284992noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670521983583754095.post-85357653229866580302013-02-15T16:31:00.001-06:002016-03-11T07:59:17.365-06:00EGGPLANT<div style="text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFQn0knyg0tUyHLkAIKgWX3JY0lub7ueWKicxaK7Up8jedG0_CK9OdkHKOM4OusjQq4ZT09l0jVEwV78BV23aqfIgg9G85QETIncYIoEBR2sC8nEbmRIykYww5Gr_lGK94IJUNSNHGHwU/s1600/2008+sept+eggplant+flower.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="237" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFQn0knyg0tUyHLkAIKgWX3JY0lub7ueWKicxaK7Up8jedG0_CK9OdkHKOM4OusjQq4ZT09l0jVEwV78BV23aqfIgg9G85QETIncYIoEBR2sC8nEbmRIykYww5Gr_lGK94IJUNSNHGHwU/s320/2008+sept+eggplant+flower.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="color: purple;">This blog will be updated with each change in the Eggplants we are growing (sprouting through their first transplanting). I will add any information which is helpful in raising Eggplants Organically as it becomes available.</span></div>
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<span style="color: purple;">I am growing four varieties of eggplants this year. Hopefully this will be the year I convince my hunny eggplant is delicious,</span><br />
<span style="color: purple;"> not just beautiful.</span><br />
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<span style="color: purple; font-size: large;"><strong>LEFT: Eggplant flower</strong></span><br />
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<strong><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">UPDATES:</span></strong><br />
<span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Feb 16, </span><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;">Feb 21, <span style="color: purple;">Feb 22, </span><span style="color: blue;">Feb 24, </span><span style="color: orange;">Feb 26, </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: magenta;">Feb 27</span><strong><span style="color: purple;"> </span></strong></span><br />
<strong><span style="color: purple; font-size: large;">The eggplants we'll be growing this year:</span></strong><br />
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<span style="color: purple; font-size: large;">MELANZANA ROTONDA BIANCA SFUMATA DI ROSA</span>:<br />
La Semiorto Sementi (New England Seed) Produced and packed in Italy. 2007. This is the only eggplant seed I proofed because of it's age. Put to proof 20 seeds February 3, 2013, Two sprouted February 14, today 02/15 one more sprouted. I am planting 40 seeds. I hope I get at least 4 plants. This is a fantastically flavored eggplant with very few seeds. (There were several 100 seeds in package pd $3.49)<br />
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<span style="color: purple; font-size: large;">ROSA BIANCA</span>: Gurney's Seeds 2013 I think this is probably the same eggplant as the above. I ordered it because at the time I placed my order I had not proofed my seeds. The package says seed was grown in the USA. Planting 6 seeds, I want 4 plants. (package said 30 seeds and that is what I received, pd $2.99).<br />
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<span style="color: purple; font-size: large;">ASWAD</span>: Baker Creek Seeds, 2012. Never planted this variety. Last years seed, planting 12 seeds I would like to have 6 plants (Package said 25 seeds, I received 70+ seeds pd $3.00)<br />
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<span style="color: purple; font-size: large;">DIAMOND</span>: Baker Creek Seeds, 2012. Never planted this variety. Last years seed, planting 12 seeds would like 6 plants. The package states this is a mild dark purple 6"-9" x 2"-3" slender fruit of superb flavor and firm flesh. (package stated 25 seeds, I received 69 seeds, pd $2.00) <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIYgxIAmQOxRtC0EGNASvqZ37Zhg2SEEB6tfR0wvl4QNLs7yi3bmqo5l1SXk6TxOLDBSgfL8Oiwp9CspuONNt02i0iMk7sYrZKWS67J5oMM2luKUYhdddpyJ6bhwsgO8lCDI1Lkh2JkaQ/s1600/eggplant+bloom+with+bug.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="620" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIYgxIAmQOxRtC0EGNASvqZ37Zhg2SEEB6tfR0wvl4QNLs7yi3bmqo5l1SXk6TxOLDBSgfL8Oiwp9CspuONNt02i0iMk7sYrZKWS67J5oMM2luKUYhdddpyJ6bhwsgO8lCDI1Lkh2JkaQ/s640/eggplant+bloom+with+bug.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: purple; font-size: large;"><strong>EGGPLANT FLOWER WITH A FRIENDLY VISITOR</strong></span></div>
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PLANTED<br />
FEB 15 <span style="color: #6aa84f;"> DATE</span> <span style="color: purple;"> DATE</span> <span style="color: blue;">DATE</span> <span style="color: orange;"> DATE</span> DATE DATE DATE DATE<br />
<span style="color: red;"> </span><span style="color: #6aa84f;"> FEB 21 </span><span style="color: purple;"> Feb 22 <span style="color: blue;">Feb 24</span> <span style="color: orange;"> Feb 26</span> </span><span style="color: magenta;">Feb 27 <span style="color: lime;">Mar 2</span> </span><br />
DI ROSA <span style="color: blue;">7/40 </span><span style="color: orange;">17/40 </span><span style="color: magenta;">19/40 </span><span style="color: lime;">21/40</span><br />
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BIANCA <span style="color: orange;">0/6</span> <span style="color: magenta;"> 0/6 </span><br />
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ASWAD <span style="color: #6aa84f;"> 7/12 </span><span style="color: purple;">8/12 </span><span style="color: blue;">8/12 </span><span style="color: orange;">9/12 </span><span style="color: magenta;"> 9/12 </span><span style="color: lime;">9/12</span><br />
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DIAMOND <span style="color: #6aa84f;"> 4/12 </span><span style="color: blue;">5/12 </span><span style="color: orange;">4/12 </span><span style="color: magenta;">9/12 </span><span style="color: lime;">10/12</span><br />
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<span style="color: #6aa84f;">February 21, 2013: I didn't check the seeds last night (they had been checked at 6 AM on the 20th). This morning they were already an inch high and very lacking in chlorophyll. They have been put under a light source to start manufacturing it. I am using a goose neck lamp with a 60 watt bulb right now. It's too early to run down and stick them under the grow lights in the barn. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #6aa84f;">Six days and they sprouted. The seed is 2 years old and eggplants. I didn't expect anything for at least 10 days. The temp in the propagation box was a steady 80 degrees for the last 4 days. The first two days it was 75 degrees. I couldn't get the temps any higher, I switched to a smaller Styrofoam containers so there would be less room for the yogurt maker to heat. The heat from the bulb, not just the light, will be beneficial in their growth. Egg plants do not like to be cold. It stunts their growth. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #6aa84f;">When I put them under the grow lights I will put a regular people heating pad under them on low so they will have heat coming up from below. The room is only about 65 degrees. They will not be set directly on the mat they will be on a cookie cooling rack that I filched from the kitchen. Sitting on the mat the heat would be concentrated and too warm even if it were set on the lowest setting. Yes, heat mats for plants are available but I have a heating pad. I just have to be more attentive, monitoring how hot this one gets because it doesn't have a thermostat to turn it off or down.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #6aa84f;">Stress of cold, uneven watering, even transplanting can cause eggplant to be stunted resulting in decreased production. You want the plant to be growing quickly, keeping a nice green stalk.</span><br />
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<span style="color: purple;">February 22, 2013: Slow but sure. I sure hope the other two sprout soon. Just in case you are not reading the blog about broccoli: </span><a href="http://organicinstlouis.blogspot.com/2013/02/broccoli.html">http://organicinstlouis.blogspot.com/2013/02/broccoli.html</a> <br />
<span style="color: purple;">I will post about a change in procedure I am using. Yesterday I discovered a better way than using the plastic wrap for wrapping the trays. There is a zip lock bag which has a glide closure and the bottom of the bag is a box flap. The zipper allow easy access to the bag, and the box bottom allows for three of my plastic trays to fit in a gallon size.</span><br />
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<span style="color: purple;">The chlorosis cleared up after 10 hours under the lights and they didn't get any leggier.</span><br />
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<span style="color: blue;">February 24, 2013: Being I was planting so few seeds I decided to divide the containers and plant two varieties in one tray. I had not taken into account that different varieties germinate at different times. Then you add into the equation the age of the seed and you have a totally different circumstances. I placed the Bianca in with the DI Rosa. The older seed has surprised me and sprouted first. My new seed from Gurney's has not sprouted at all. I thought the new seed would have sprouted before the other one. I did not proof the new seed but I did proof the DI Rosa because it was from 2007. See above seed description at top of blog. These planted in the soil less mix have started sprouting in 9 days. I am so pleased with the results and the longevity of this seed. </span><br />
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<span style="color: blue;">The problem I have now is the Gurney seed has not sprouted. The tray has to be out so the other side can get light. I am having to keep the surface more moist so they have the best possible chance to germinate. They also are only about 72 degrees not the 80 in the propagation chamber.</span><br />
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<span style="color: blue;">If we don't have any catastrophes I have enough of the Aswad and the Diamond sprouted. If any more sprout they will be more than welcomed, but if they don't we will be fine. Especially if I can't get Hunny to consume them.</span><br />
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<span style="color: orange;">February 26: The Gurney seed still hasn't sprouted. It has been eleven days. Some sources say up to 21 days for germination. But you can see the other varieties have sprouted. I have plenty of plants of the other varieties but wanted to try the Bianca to see if it was the same as the Di Rosa. I've had an admirable showing from the New England seeds which are already 6 years old. We are almost to 50% germination. (the proofing showed just under 50%) I will be saving this seed and proofing it again next year. Proofing will tell me the viability of the seed and how many I have to plant to get the number of seedlings I need.</span><br />
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<span style="color: orange;">If you do not know about proofing seed I blogged about it here:</span><br />
<a href="http://organicinstlouis.blogspot.com/2013/02/proofing-seeds.html">http://organicinstlouis.blogspot.com/2013/02/proofing-seeds.html</a><br />
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<span style="color: orange;">In your reading about Eggplant culture I don't know if you have learned about the importance to keeping eggplant plants warm during their growing out. In fact through their whole life. We baby our seedlings to the point where we make a small "green houses" inside our green house and put a heat source on the bottom so the roots stay warm. This is like a playpen for the plants. (A playpen would be fabulous to use if you could find one at a garage sale..all you would have to do is put a heat pad in the bottom and make a rack above it to sit the plants on and then throw a sheet of plastic over it to keep the heat in.) We just use a wooden pallet to sit the plants above the heat source and make sides from what ever resource we have and cover it with plastic. </span><br />
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<span style="color: magenta;">February 27: When I watered the seedlings last night I notice I have some new sprouts. I was thrilled the oldest seed was nearing 50% germination. (the only problem with this is I will have to find homes for the ones I can't use). The other two seeds, which were from last year, are at 75% germination. I am very disappointed that the new seed from Gurneys is not germinating and it has been given an ideal environment. I just called Gurney's and they were extremely nice. I explained my predicament and they took care of the situation.</span><br />
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<span style="color: lime;">MARCH 2: Today is moving day. Will be writing a separate blog for the seedlings. Only the Rosa Bianca did not grow I am pleased with the other seeds. This is the new blog about the repotting:</span><br />
<a href="http://organicinstlouis.blogspot.com/2013/03/eggplant-transplanting.html">http://organicinstlouis.blogspot.com/2013/03/eggplant-transplanting.html</a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3bmsyzzD77l5tETyPBbJoA5gedka-wRsJ_LGHN46SCY9dccmxKfT8hC5J37vOZe9ttxh32FcpB4yAQDaUoyVYTVk3VWLeagmASmYqgPTS7necJjSaVy87YD4yTsaNjUBtZlxyN-w1UbE/s1600/2008+sept+eggplant+purple+rain.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="277" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3bmsyzzD77l5tETyPBbJoA5gedka-wRsJ_LGHN46SCY9dccmxKfT8hC5J37vOZe9ttxh32FcpB4yAQDaUoyVYTVk3VWLeagmASmYqgPTS7necJjSaVy87YD4yTsaNjUBtZlxyN-w1UbE/s320/2008+sept+eggplant+purple+rain.jpg" width="320" /> </a>Baker Creek packages stated the following: to sew seeds indoors 8-12 weeks before last frost. Most species are from Africa or India. They can be surface sewn. ( I have always planted them 1/4 inch deep.) The seeds could take up to 3 weeks to germinate. Other sources say Germination is 7-14 days. In my propagation chamber it is usually is closer to 7 days for eggplant.<br />
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<span style="color: purple; font-size: large;">ABOVE: PURPLE RAIN EGGPLANT</span> </div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">This eggplant was very prolific. The eggplants were small usually around 4 inches long or less. flavor very mild. I found the skins very tough.</span></div>
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The eggplants here were grown in our green house in 2007. It was a very successfully endeavor..</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>MY ESSENTIAL TOOLS FOR SEED STARTING</strong></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5reCu5UCJQ270kmaq0fEzFr8399t7McGF86F2BIwepRq7BIPhZMa2-RwsNmKlQPQ7lzhjqx8Dvd_-5a-wq58hvSxCkK1ufDQkysTpZFWiOHZvby9FUEDcmhLldcUUc1sOEL1cdQ3bwu0/s1600/TOOLS+SEED+STARTING.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5reCu5UCJQ270kmaq0fEzFr8399t7McGF86F2BIwepRq7BIPhZMa2-RwsNmKlQPQ7lzhjqx8Dvd_-5a-wq58hvSxCkK1ufDQkysTpZFWiOHZvby9FUEDcmhLldcUUc1sOEL1cdQ3bwu0/s640/TOOLS+SEED+STARTING.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<strong>Clockwise from 12 o'clock:</strong> Roll of plastic wrap; wax paper sheets; scissors; glue stick, plastic container; notebook, glasses, pen, chop stick; bag of moistened seeding mix; paper towels select-a-size</div>
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<strong>Center:</strong> ultra fine point sharpie, tweezers, (the wax paper cut into sheets and folded into pockets)</div>
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I can't stress enough how important it is you make a paper chart while you are working. Record pertinent info and maybe even info you don't consider relevant. </div>
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When I open a packet of seeds I count them. Then I put them in a wax paper pocket on which I have written on the outside with the ultra fine point sharpie the package info (the variety, the company, the year, and the number of seeds left after I use them.) Then I put the little packet inside the package which they originally were in. This keeps seeds from falling out of the package. </div>
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We use all sorts of plastic inserts for planting, even the covered take out containers (the ones with clear lids). The only prerequisite is they be deep enough to allow space when the seeds sprout. You don't need much room above the dirt, maybe 1/2 inch to an inch. </div>
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<span style="color: magenta;">February 27: While planting my peppers I found the ideal container for starting a few seeds in. My "activia " containers with their edge cut off. 5 seeds fit comfortably in them. </span></div>
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Before you fill your container make sure you make a label and attach it to the container. At the same time record all information ( I.E. planting date, variety, seed company, seed age, how many seeds planted)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-lZIqTNAAZNq5LbHjUIcqm4h901whtUN6gy6jKoDD-REeNkpvTvvF8HwWH1PEuvZx6MwDXv4tqEXWWDejGkIWDCSUt-c1ZjrQGVLidcA938IECqnMYUspfnobOYprvectekuZAWkOz0k/s1600/TOOLS+SEED+STARTING+chopstick.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="131" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-lZIqTNAAZNq5LbHjUIcqm4h901whtUN6gy6jKoDD-REeNkpvTvvF8HwWH1PEuvZx6MwDXv4tqEXWWDejGkIWDCSUt-c1ZjrQGVLidcA938IECqnMYUspfnobOYprvectekuZAWkOz0k/s320/TOOLS+SEED+STARTING+chopstick.jpg" width="320" /></a>Press the wet soil less medium into the bottom of the plastic containers. Then use the tweezers to pick up and lay the seeds on top of the medium. After your seeds are in place go back with your chop stick, which has been marked with the proper planting depth, and poke the seeds into the medium.</div>
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<strong><span style="color: purple;">CHOPSTICK MARKED WITH 1/4 MEASUREMENT</span></strong></div>
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<span style="color: magenta;">February 27: While reading through this blog after I wrote the seedling additions I realized I had never explained the importance to starting your seeds in a soil less mix. There are many bacterias and fungus present in regular soil. The germination temps are high for eggplant and this encourages the growth of these critters as well as your eggplants. They love to establish homes on little plants. You could use regular soil but are taking a chance on raising the plants to maturity. Another draw back to soil is it packs and the seeds have to fight their way to the surface. It is also difficult to keep consistent moisture on the surface.</span></div>
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<span style="color: black;">After the seeds are pressed into the medium I use the other end of the chopstick and lightly tamp the soil less mix over the seeds. Next I cover the container with plastic wrap and put it in our propagation chamber. In the following blog I explain how we made our propagation chamber. Scroll down about half way on the blog.</span></div>
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<span style="color: magenta;">February 27: Another thing I have found that is a big help is the use of those zippered bags with the box bottoms. They accommodate my containers well, and it is easy to open the bag to check for germination.</span></div>
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<strong><span style="color: purple; font-size: large;"><a href="http://organicinstlouis.blogspot.com/2010/02/diary-of-day.html">http://organicinstlouis.blogspot.com/2010/02/diary-of-day.html</a></span></strong></div>
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<span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Our Propagation Chamber ( a 28" x 18" x 16" Styrofoam cooler) has two yogurt makers in it. I only have one on and the temperature is staying right at 80 degrees F with the lid closed.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Eggplants we have grown in the past:</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimnUWA4ijVoW-_f-5MiHcpORWFUnQR6nyy6x7AFhN3gudem2Erds8PEOrK9vroZeiA6iI9rKmqV6HHWHQp1s83dqy0volIrQ1MGRbVgpRT991voxX0rDGqqq3RRNa6JnJ0HtF9WPM8WbM/s1600/2008+sept+eggplant+Rosita.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimnUWA4ijVoW-_f-5MiHcpORWFUnQR6nyy6x7AFhN3gudem2Erds8PEOrK9vroZeiA6iI9rKmqV6HHWHQp1s83dqy0volIrQ1MGRbVgpRT991voxX0rDGqqq3RRNa6JnJ0HtF9WPM8WbM/s200/2008+sept+eggplant+Rosita.jpg" width="169" /></a><span style="font-size: large;">ROSITA: fruits are about 1 - 1 1/2 cup size. the flesh is pure white. They are usually a little pinker than this. The flea Beatles seemed to enjoy them more than the other varieties. They were not as prolific as other eggplants we have grown. We will give them a second chance because they were so delicious.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7lRHPayrK1uZQURz9MfHr8mrCOQE2NfE0-y4OZVZ62p8QGkGeim-vwdrc1Ei92w6uRXnAUDRFDh1SuiWuoU64yylOQaSqoa9BSVbF7_ec-0KnZOwCIzxy39HLTGJM3o9v9PYv19aaqcM/s1600/eggplant+bride.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7lRHPayrK1uZQURz9MfHr8mrCOQE2NfE0-y4OZVZ62p8QGkGeim-vwdrc1Ei92w6uRXnAUDRFDh1SuiWuoU64yylOQaSqoa9BSVbF7_ec-0KnZOwCIzxy39HLTGJM3o9v9PYv19aaqcM/s320/eggplant+bride.JPG" width="320" /></a><span style="font-size: large;">BRIDE: for us these were a very lackadaisical in taste eggplant. The flesh was firm with hardly any seeds. They were prolific. The largest eggplant was maybe 6 inches long and 2 inches wide.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9JkZAHUD5a5s1SZN5a5BdpEtExN6MC1tny8dQGm1shqL9K7avlJV6dMVbqEMzE81VIatOf4jS3Q6tT0hlRM5v5QylVgNqesiWE0cFPJ9mgoFdpdNHK57oDp3l158adKKUB9nSr0kiU0w/s1600/eggplant+kamo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9JkZAHUD5a5s1SZN5a5BdpEtExN6MC1tny8dQGm1shqL9K7avlJV6dMVbqEMzE81VIatOf4jS3Q6tT0hlRM5v5QylVgNqesiWE0cFPJ9mgoFdpdNHK57oDp3l158adKKUB9nSr0kiU0w/s320/eggplant+kamo.JPG" width="320" /></a><span style="font-size: large;">KAMO: wow what an eggplant. The only problem with it is it isn't large enough. it has extremely firm flesh with a slight green coloring. very very mild. Seemed less susceptible to the flea beetles. It grows on extremely large 3+ feet plants. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim0FuhL6DgrCGWZodxoNpyjDxirtqjiC2WrCQ4Di6xDsGhNj9837wG4nJ5RCWdU0vycsQFZ11jNqiOsCAsCclWUwXRw4JNa6e2HvhZvT2SMsG8cQido783Et8J8R7TY6QpbhQp_hygTR4/s1600/eggplant+ping+tung.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim0FuhL6DgrCGWZodxoNpyjDxirtqjiC2WrCQ4Di6xDsGhNj9837wG4nJ5RCWdU0vycsQFZ11jNqiOsCAsCclWUwXRw4JNa6e2HvhZvT2SMsG8cQido783Et8J8R7TY6QpbhQp_hygTR4/s320/eggplant+ping+tung.JPG" width="320" /></a><span style="font-size: large;">PING TUNG: The flavor of this eggplant was okay. The plants were scrawny, not very leafy. It wasn't very prolific. when cooked the flesh went to mush immediately, and the skins were tough. They were a couple inches long to 7 inches long and were only an inch through. We won't be planting these again.</span></div>
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Sheepishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06867642244105284992noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670521983583754095.post-20831990560923960842013-02-12T14:30:00.001-06:002013-02-24T16:10:36.709-06:00PROOFING SEEDS<div align="center">
<span style="color: #6aa84f;">Edited February 14, 2013</span><br />
<span style="color: red;">Edited February 18, 2013</span><br />
<span style="color: magenta;">Edited February 24, 2013</span><br />
Proofing Seeds saves money and time. I was late starting the gardening for this year and ordering seeds. I went ahead and ordered new seeds of varieties I had in the larder. I didn't want to be without. I now wish I had proofed my seeds. For example, after proofing my seeds last week I discovered I had viable sugar snap peas in enough quantities to suit my gardening needs for this year. I had just receive a seed order where I had spent $8.99 for my snap peas. I did not have to spend that money. Needless to say these will be set aside for next year's garden.</div>
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Another advantage to proofing seeds is you won't waste time planting seeds which won't grow. On seeds with a low germination rate you know how many to sow to make sure you have good germination. You won't be disappointed a week later with nothing coming up.</div>
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If you are wondering how to proof seeds it is very simple. If you keep your house at 72 degrees the heat requirement is satisfied (if your house is very cool you will want to have them on top of a water heater or other nice warm area). </div>
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You'll need:</div>
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a roll of select the size paper towels</div>
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Sharpie fine point not ultra fine,</div>
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plastic bags (not the kind with the zippers, just a plain fold over top sandwich bag).</div>
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a plate with sloped edges</div>
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old detergent bottle with the nozzle cap (a cream pitcher works too)<br />
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The object is to have the seeds in a moist, dark, warm environment.</div>
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I usually proof 10 seeds in each packet (unless there is a limited amount of seeds). The reason for ten is you can get a percentage when they sprout, I.E. if you have 10 seeds in the packet and 8 of them sprout you have 80% viability. If you only have 2 sprout you only have 20%, which is pretty poor. </div>
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Take a plastic bag for each seed packet you are going to proof. Use your sharpie to write on the outside of the bag the information on the seed packet. I.E. the name of the variety of seed, and the year it was produced for. </div>
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This is the time I want to say, when your seed order arrives, make sure the date on the back of the packets say, produced or packed for the current year. I have a friend who received seed this year from a respected company that had a sticker saying it was packed for 2012..and on the bottom of the package in the fine print was that it was packed for 2010. I have purchased old seed before but knew it was old seed and the company took the responsibility to proof the seeds before it left their building so I knew my percentage of viability. The only reason we even noticed was because I was showing her about proofing seeds and told her, on new seed she didn't have to do it. I also explained there were charts available on line which told how long seeds of different varieties were viable. So we were reading the backs of packets and voila, the new that was old seed, reared its head.</div>
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How to proof your seed:</div>
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On a plate place a select -a-size towel.</div>
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Dampen with water. Not sopping wet but very wet not just damp.</div>
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The seeds will absorb some of the water. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirkTnYXu-g4-BkrLSAmUYyQiK1ylBlo9DWKkLyRcJd6B0bvIQcvcT7xEZmIFXHvBB_l8Z_1tGh7TMrsveqLR_26trVRekozAZiSDcHeC7MCN9Lee7EnbHq88Kn9hfRJTXzEYNR-gP2E8c/s1600/proof+seeds+plate+10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="206" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirkTnYXu-g4-BkrLSAmUYyQiK1ylBlo9DWKkLyRcJd6B0bvIQcvcT7xEZmIFXHvBB_l8Z_1tGh7TMrsveqLR_26trVRekozAZiSDcHeC7MCN9Lee7EnbHq88Kn9hfRJTXzEYNR-gP2E8c/s320/proof+seeds+plate+10.jpg" uea="true" width="320" /></a></div>
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Place your seeds on the towel. Then fold it into a little packet.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBbq9gKz610S-AO5wrPZWwZh67nYqW5GGwZ65oNj-as8TMRwkoF3PVfdwj5-Q7Bqn5UA3j1Eh_LnWixeKNlby48OL1BbCx-15HmyIRSCb3tOezLq7vfSTlIQqIWFTe6cz5Fnb3AGBkZcc/s1600/proof+seeds+packet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="220" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBbq9gKz610S-AO5wrPZWwZh67nYqW5GGwZ65oNj-as8TMRwkoF3PVfdwj5-Q7Bqn5UA3j1Eh_LnWixeKNlby48OL1BbCx-15HmyIRSCb3tOezLq7vfSTlIQqIWFTe6cz5Fnb3AGBkZcc/s320/proof+seeds+packet.jpg" uea="true" width="320" /></a></div>
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Pick the packet up and put it in the labeled plastic bag. </div>
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(Give a squeeze before you do to make sure you don't have water running out of the towel. <br />
If you do, squeeze out the excess. You only want the packet nicely wet...not sopping.)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizbkj1YEKg7eqrMw98-4GAOvX8Alam5HwnzTFwzjgB8KVuPicqJtFro-ppdoJWTLE-xoRqhW0zu7xQsb5wv4bql0cWQipyiQS7zuHAWGDgry-jy83sCQjRLC4nRA_29InScp6lmq0Yfmg/s1600/proof+seeds+in+package.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="230" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizbkj1YEKg7eqrMw98-4GAOvX8Alam5HwnzTFwzjgB8KVuPicqJtFro-ppdoJWTLE-xoRqhW0zu7xQsb5wv4bql0cWQipyiQS7zuHAWGDgry-jy83sCQjRLC4nRA_29InScp6lmq0Yfmg/s320/proof+seeds+in+package.jpg" uea="true" width="320" /></a></div>
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I store my packages in a plastic box in a warm place. You can see the seeds already in my storage box. Any take out container works.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimX_iSjg99b7Qg4YbKd5ObA4KS7kP0VdEfYDH1NMQXJAZ67irxARzU45H9yAJUmcBIdyHZovGgCoY_HFz83pLiRA59Ei2Vq3TNOdX1GDw80K4pYuOmRBZdJoo5i0kv9hxBayRltTTSQXI/s1600/proof+seeds+box.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="183" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimX_iSjg99b7Qg4YbKd5ObA4KS7kP0VdEfYDH1NMQXJAZ67irxARzU45H9yAJUmcBIdyHZovGgCoY_HFz83pLiRA59Ei2Vq3TNOdX1GDw80K4pYuOmRBZdJoo5i0kv9hxBayRltTTSQXI/s320/proof+seeds+box.jpg" uea="true" width="320" /></a></div>
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The box is then stuck in a brown paper bag to exclude the light.</div>
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You also need a pen and paper for compiling list of the seeds you are proofing.<br />
<br />
<span style="color: magenta;">The seed company listed as Mine OP stands for seed I saved and it was open pollinated.</span><br />
This is how I made my list from this year and my results:<br />
<br />
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COMPANY YEAR VARIETY DATE <span style="color: red;"> DATE</span> DATE <span style="color: #0b5394;"> </span><span style="color: lime;">DATE</span><span style="color: #741b47;"> </span><span style="color: blue;">DATE</span></div>
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2-03 <span style="color: red;"> 2-07</span> 2-09 <span style="color: lime;"> 2-14 </span><span style="color: blue;"> 2-16</span></div>
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RISPENS SEED 10 SPARTAN ARROW <span style="color: red;">10/10</span> 10/10</div>
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BUSH BEANS</div>
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</div>
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SHUMWAY 07 EXPERIMENTAL <span style="color: red;">4/10</span> 8/10 </div>
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BUSH PEA</div>
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</div>
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PINETREE 10 SNAP PEA <span style="color: red;"> 9/10</span> 9/10 </div>
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SUPER SUGAR SNAP <br />
<br />
<span style="color: lime;"><span style="color: black;">NEW ENGLAND SD O8 MELANZANA ROMANESCO</span> <span style="color: red;">0/20</span> </span><span style="color: black;">0/20</span> <span style="color: lime;"> 2/20</span><span style="color: #6aa84f;"> <span style="color: blue;">5/20</span> </span><br />
<span style="color: black;">(this seed is from Italy and the fruit was fantastic. Even with horrible germination I will plant it)</span><br />
<span style="color: red;">February 18: This is a note not to give up on old seed. Today there are 4 more seeds sprouting in this variety. I give seeds at least a week past when they should have sprouted, unless the seeds have obiously rotted. Eggplants which are fresh seed have a sprouting window of 7-21 days.</span> <span style="color: red;"> This seed was planted February 03. Today is well with in the 21 days.</span></div>
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SHUMWAY A 08 LIMA SPECKLED <span style="color: red;"> 0/10</span> 0/10</div>
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CHRISTMAS</div>
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</div>
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" " " B " " " " <span style="color: red;"> "</span> "</div>
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GURNEYS 07 DWARF GRAY SUGAR <span style="color: red;"> 10/10</span> 10/10</div>
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SHUMWAY 07 SUPER SUGAR SNAP <span style="color: red;"> 6/10</span> 7/10</div>
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SHUMWAY 08 MAMMOTH MELTING SUGAR <span style="color: red;"> 2/10</span> 2/10</div>
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</div>
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SHUMWAY UNKNOWN TENDERGREEN BUSH <span style="color: red;"> 2/10</span> 2/10</div>
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EXPERIMENTAL</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
PINETREE 10 JADE GREEN BUSH BEAN <span style="color: red;"> 7/10</span> 7/10<br />
<br />
SCHEEPERS 07 QUADRATO D'ASTI ROSSA <span style="color: red;"> 0/05</span> 0/5 <span style="color: #6aa84f;"> 0/5</span><br />
SWEET PEPPER <span style="color: magenta;">Februar 24 2/5</span></div>
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</div>
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MINE OP harvested 12(Fall) SPARTAN ARROW <span style="color: red;"> 10/10</span> 10/10</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
PERFECT SEED</div>
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</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
MINE OP "" "" "" SPARTAN ARROW <span style="color: red;"> 9/10</span> 9/10<br />
IMPERFECT SEED<br />
<br />
MINE OP """ 11 COMPOST GOLD TOMATO WET <span style="color: red;">0/10</span> 8/10 <span style="color: #6aa84f;">8/10</span><br />
<span style="color: magenta;"> February 24 9/10</span></div>
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</div>
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MINE OP """ 11 COMPOST GOLD TOMATO DRY <span style="color: red;">0/10</span> 0/10 <span style="color: #6aa84f;"> 2/10</span></div>
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The above two tomatoes were from a plant which grew in the compost pile. We had never planted a small yellow cocktail tomato. It was extremely sweet, did not crack when it rained, very prolific not an extremely large plant like indeterminate cocktail plants usually are. The plant set fruit after the nights went below 50 degrees. The leaves never succumbed to the diseases that were prevalent that year. The tomato labeled wet was the one we fermented the seed. The label dry, was fruit retrieved off the plant that had dried on the plant.</div>
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MINE OP "" "" "" 12 ACONCQUA PEPPER <span style="color: red;"> 0/10</span> 7/10</div>
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HARVESTED FROM GREEN HOUSE</div>
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We planted some of these pepper plants in the green house because the ground hogs were destroying our garden. Due to the extreme heat they did not bear till after august. We were unsure if the seed would be save-able. (The original seed was purchased from Pinetree Seeds.)</div>
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The results of this test don't just show me the viability of the seed. They show me how fast they sprout. Which is nice to know, especially on tomato and pepper seeds. I am so anxious for everything to sprout so it keeps the stress out of the gardening.<br />
<br />
<span style="color: red;">February 18, BTW the container you store your little plastic parcels in will have a strange fementing/yeasty smell when you open it. Nothing is wrong it's natural</span>.<br />
<br />
<span style="color: magenta;">February 24: I was getting ready to throw away the contents of the box and decided to look and see if there had been any changes in the packages. Much to my delight is the Scheepers pepper seed had sprouted. 2/5 This is a good enough percentage to plant it. the test shows me I will just have to be patient for it to sprout. ( I haven't checked the seeds for 4 days) It seems they took between 15-20 days to sprout.</span></div>
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What have I done with my seed because of the results of this test? I have thrown away the speckled limas, the mammoth melting sugar, and the tender green experimental. I have also thrown away the "compost gold dry". </div>
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I was surprised the 07 Gurney's dwarf gray sugar had a 100% germination. I know planting them in the ground probably won't give the 100% but it was nice to know I will have a high response when they go in the ground (if the ground isn't too cold and wet!) I think we will put some in the green house this week and see what happens. WE have done it before:</div>
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This blog shows the last time we planted them.</div>
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<a href="http://gloriouscreations.blogspot.com/2008/12/little-bit-of-spring.html">http://gloriouscreations.blogspot.com/2008/12/little-bit-of-spring.html</a><br />
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Good luck, have fun with your garden. Read and google everything you can. Glean what you think will work for you from the knowledge you harvest. Remember what works for someone else may not work for you. If it doesn't, work with what you have and try something new. </div>
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Gardens thrive on attention, a good food and water.</div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"> <span style="font-size: large;">For more blogs by me, visit at:</span></span></div>
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<a href="http://gloriouscreations.blogspot.com/" style="background-color: white; color: #4d469c;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">http://gloriouscreations.blogspot.com</span></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">A
blog mostly about quilting, but cooking, poetry, prose and a little
gardening,</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">New blog, tutorial on how to make 5 panel Boxer
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<a href="http://glosgarden.blogspot.com/" style="color: #4d469c;"><span style="color: purple;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">http://glosgarden.blogspot.com/</span></span></a></div>
<div style="color: black; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white;">Not a garden blog. There
are articles which have nothing to do with creating or gardening. </span></div>
<div style="color: black; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white;">There are blogs on the new born baby
kittens we found and mothered. </span></div>
<div style="color: black; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white;">It is a blog where I voice my
opinions which will always be environmentally friendly.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #4c1130;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #cc0000;">As always, any pictures or
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Sheepishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06867642244105284992noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670521983583754095.post-60454584809217536022013-01-18T13:13:00.001-06:002013-03-28T07:35:29.233-05:00BROCCOLI SOUP<br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;">It is almost the end of January. I am going to be optimistic and think that I am going to be planting my broccoli and cabbage plants soon. We have a green house/cold frame. Last year we planted early and would have been able to reap the rewards except we had a ground hog decide we planted the smorgasbord just for him. In one night (he or they) destroyed 36 heads of broccoli ready to harvest. Twenty-eight heads of cabbage were also made inedible. </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;"><br /></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;">This was a very hard to take disaster Needless to say I stopped planting anything until the critters had been relocated. Through the summer we relocated 10. I'm hoping that was all of them. Right now we are re-fencing, Our resident deer have done a number on the fences. We have seen a group of 9 deer since hunting season was over. They are not bothered by us, they look up from grazing, staring at us chewing, their mouth's full. No one told them it's not manners to come to the party uninvited.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;"><br /></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;">Cold is not a deterrent to thinking about the garden. An off-shoot of gardening is a love of cooking. I am always looking for creative way to serve the produce from the garden. We are soup lovers, it is a convenient medium to use lots of kinds of vegetables. </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;">One of the things I am doing this year is to make my cooking more heart friendly. I have created a recipe that satisfies my cravings for creamy decadent soups. The following is last night's soup. </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">A DIET WORTHY VERSION OF</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-size: medium;">CREAM OF BROCCOLI SOUP</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">First you have to get over the notion cream soups have to be made with cream. It is the consistency our brains are craving not the calories. This consistency can be achieved through using potatoes. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">The next dieters aid is flavor. We have an arsenal of flavor enhancers at our disposal. There are herbs, fresh and dried (fresh gives a larger flavor boost). There is salt for those who do not have a salt restriction (any salt though adds to water retention in the body). You have broths you can make or buy.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">You eat with your eyes so you want color in your concoctions. According to the soup I am making I add vegetables of that color. Carrots are a great color enhancer (they won't add a lot of flavor to things like a squash soup or a garlic soup..but they will enhance the color and as a root vegetable they add another spectrum of vitamins and minerals). A favorite in my freezer for color enhancing is frozen peas. They add delightful color to cucumber soup. I have never made a soup, other than Borscht, with beets but I can imagine the neat color it might add to maybe a potato soup to serve at Valentines Day or Christmas. I am sure you can think of several natural color additives. (Don't forget to add onion peelings to clear broths for a golden color)</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 20px;">INGREDIENTS/DIRECTIONS FOR CREAM OF BROCCOLI SOUP</span><br /><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 20px;"><br /></span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;">BROTH OR WATER 4 CUPS (I recommend chicken broth, beef or vegetable will muddy the delightful brightness of the broccoli).</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;">BROCCOLI: 1 LB, Break apart the sections and blanch for 2 1/2 minutes in boiling water. Flash cool the </span><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;">broccoli in ice water and drain thoroughly (while you are blanching why don't you blanch 2 lbs instead and have the second lb stored in two sandwich bags in the refrigerator to serve as a side for another couple of meals) Do not over blanch, remember the broccoli will be added back to the hot broth. You don't want the off flavors the Cole family develops when over-cooked.</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;">When drained, cut the stalks off the florets, placing them in another bowl. Save the florets for later. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;">ONION: 1 MEDIUM, Peel and dice into 1/4 inch dice. </span></span><u style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;"><span style="color: #274e13;"><b>Saute' in 2 teaspoons butter</b></span></u><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;"> (or non flavored oil). cook until translucent (You don't want any color to develop)</span></span><br /><br /><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;">After the onions are sauteed cover with </span></span><span style="color: #274e13; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;"><u><b>1 cup of "broth" or water</b></u></span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;">. Bring to a simmer. </span></span><br /><br /><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;">POTATOES: 4 MEDIUM, peel and dice in 1/4 inch dice. Add to the simmering onions. Cook covered until soft. </span></span><br /><br /><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;">FLOUR: 3 TABLESPOONS, place in a large cup and use a fork, whisk in slowly, 1 cup of cold broth (if the broth is hot it will lump the flour). When thoroughly incorporated use your fork to whisk it into the simmering potato mixture. Have your last two cups of broth handy, on the side, to start stirring into the mixture. You can turn up the fire a little, you must stir constantly (I use a silicone spoonula at this point). When you have the broth stirred in cook until the raw flour taste is gone and the mixture is thickened.</span></span><br /><br /><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;">At this point if you have an immersion blender, turn off the heat and retrieve the blender from where you stored it. </span></span><span style="color: #274e13; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;"><u><b>The broccoli stalks</b></u></span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;"> need to be stirred into your potato mixture. If you don't have an immersion blender a regular blender works and I imagine a food processor would too ( don't have one so can't tell you if it will). Take the resulting mixture and return it to the pan (BTW if you want a greener looking soup ad a cup of frozen peas to the mix before you blend.)</span></span><br /><br /><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;">Reheat your soup..If it is too thick for you, add some more broth. Correct your seasoning..you can add salt and pepper at this point. An herb I love to use in broccoli soup is fresh lemon thyme. When your soup is simmering again add back your broccoli florets, stir carefully so you don't wreck them.</span></span><br /><br /><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;">This great diet soup(remember portion control) has another plus. It is very quick to cook. This is a soup which is designed to serve four. You will have 1/4 lb of broccoli, 1 potato, 1/4 of an onion, 1/4 teaspoon butter, and 3/4 tablespoon of flour for each serving. This is like having two sides on your plate. Serving it with a large salad (no creamy dressing) will be a full meal with the addition of a protein (which could be a boiled egg). </span></span><br /><br /><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;">Enjoy.</span></span><br /><br /><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 20px;">Additions and ways to change this soup. </span><br /><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;">Asparagus, 1 lb, peel the stalks and blanch 3 minutes and cold water shock. Then cut stalks into 1 inch pieces (save 3 inches of the tops for adding at the end). </span></span><br /><br /><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;">Carrots, 1 lb (peel, slice in discs blanch 5 minutes) use 2/3 in soup and 1/3 to add at finish) Garlic sauteed with the onions add a whole new dimension. Using beef broth instead, changes it again.</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: large;">May your garden be filled </span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: large;">with the results of your energies expended. </span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: large;">May your daily diet be delightful.</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">A blog mostly about quilting, but cooking, poetry, prose and a little gardening,</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<span style="background-color: white;">New blog, tutorial on how to make 5 panel Boxer Shorts.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<span style="background-color: white;">New Blog about dolls.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><br /><a href="http://glosgarden.blogspot.com/" style="color: #4d469c; text-decoration: initial;"><span style="color: purple;">http://glosgarden.blogspot.com/</span></a></span></div>
<div>
<span style="background-color: white;">Not a garden blog. There are articles which have nothing to do with creating or gardening. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="background-color: white;">There are blogs on the new born baby kittens we found and mothered. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="background-color: white;">It is a blog where I voice my opinions which will always be environmentally friendly.</span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span style="color: #4c1130;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #cc0000;">As always, any pictures or writings are my own. </span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #4c1130;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #cc0000;">Credit has been given to contributions not my own.</span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #4c1130;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #cc0000;">Please do not use without permission.</span></span></div>
</div>
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Sheepishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06867642244105284992noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670521983583754095.post-62825834445740536992012-06-11T11:01:00.002-05:002012-06-11T16:14:53.014-05:00BLOWN OFF COURSE<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9nIvuhz1x5N9khYDmkahyphenhyphenrjERtE0kOjkfUl2xhYWbq0DLj8IyR2MQgBPgfEQKrk5tKRr1zwksd3YH-Qvq0hO4odGKQN4atozSkaEmWPIJYaLEuTZZbpwMO2NVvsdaDormOKc7b-MHbeA/s1600/warbler+3+lined+6-8-12+front+view.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" fba="true" height="314" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9nIvuhz1x5N9khYDmkahyphenhyphenrjERtE0kOjkfUl2xhYWbq0DLj8IyR2MQgBPgfEQKrk5tKRr1zwksd3YH-Qvq0hO4odGKQN4atozSkaEmWPIJYaLEuTZZbpwMO2NVvsdaDormOKc7b-MHbeA/s320/warbler+3+lined+6-8-12+front+view.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>We are bird watchers and bird feeders. We even have house birds: Two African gray parrots. Our house is perched in the woods on the side of a hill. We have lots of large windows so we can see down the valley. The birds occasionally fly into the windows. <br />
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Our Home is located in the south western corner of St. Louis area. <br />
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This morning when I looked out I found a bird dead on the deck. I went to retrieve it. I didn't recognize the bird. I knew it was in the warbler family but it was not like any warbler I had ever seen. <br />
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I looked in our field guides for it and it was not there. The distinctive stripes led me nowhere. Google to the rescue. I googled warbler three stripes on head. Instantly I had verification what bird I had. I had a "Three Striped Warbler." The catch was, this bird is only in <country-region w:st="on"><place w:st="on">Costa Rica</place></country-region> and Ecuador. There was no chance I had mis identified the bird. It was the only warbler with the stripes. You can see by the match book how small it is. <br />
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The following pictures are other views of him. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja85N6nFBHhrN1PVYReWTjzTIM5yAitc1dcIjciemMqtquBxFrCEpzZg3V4vO0gNYfVVCWp2ICvFMayiFkxJiI9Ps0-5cTJADg0xTHThZo3LRtt9U3dxp5eaRQwHxged4FO-wO-e4CvUo/s1600/warbler+3+stripe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" fba="true" height="138" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja85N6nFBHhrN1PVYReWTjzTIM5yAitc1dcIjciemMqtquBxFrCEpzZg3V4vO0gNYfVVCWp2ICvFMayiFkxJiI9Ps0-5cTJADg0xTHThZo3LRtt9U3dxp5eaRQwHxged4FO-wO-e4CvUo/s320/warbler+3+stripe.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNNQC88WrN0K6ALSl6MdhBlasMAL_9eqOqA0xcxhAT3A__hW7X3K_Suq_p7Wy2kjoJueM9omc-Rn6CMRGOtuxXJTyRjl_y2n1vVJry5esfvVRJvpIMNpNBqE9d-rbtOQXP7sIpeiyZ0dk/s1600/warbler+3+lined+6-8-12+side+view.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" fba="true" height="135" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNNQC88WrN0K6ALSl6MdhBlasMAL_9eqOqA0xcxhAT3A__hW7X3K_Suq_p7Wy2kjoJueM9omc-Rn6CMRGOtuxXJTyRjl_y2n1vVJry5esfvVRJvpIMNpNBqE9d-rbtOQXP7sIpeiyZ0dk/s200/warbler+3+lined+6-8-12+side+view.jpg" width="200" /></a><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGtR97OmvyGZI7pzdcWiZTkWYpsFD9EvS8CcwOklu6YVXd9H08ApZoERNSgXAnTVL5yXCMSGEG_x-exq9Mb-kGtul1n3qOLQgRz0Au1LGJtnzfRJ50bkOISOepZtRmQtCsDos33Sjv0LI/s1600/warbler+3+lined+6-8-12+top+head+back.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" fba="true" height="222" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGtR97OmvyGZI7pzdcWiZTkWYpsFD9EvS8CcwOklu6YVXd9H08ApZoERNSgXAnTVL5yXCMSGEG_x-exq9Mb-kGtul1n3qOLQgRz0Au1LGJtnzfRJ50bkOISOepZtRmQtCsDos33Sjv0LI/s320/warbler+3+lined+6-8-12+top+head+back.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="yiv160574429separator" style="margin: auto 0in;">The following information is from google. </div><div class="yiv160574429separator" style="margin: auto 0in;"> </div><div class="yiv160574429msonormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">This is a live picture of the bird <a href="http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=1082911" target="_blank"><span class="yshortcuts"><span style="color: purple;"><span id="lw_1339208020_0">http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=1082911</span></span></span></a> </div><div class="yiv160574429msonormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </div><div class="yiv160574429msonormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">live picture and article about the three stripe </div><div class="yiv160574429msonormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><a href="http://www.birdforum.net/opus/Three-striped_Warbler" target="_blank"><span class="yshortcuts"><span id="lw_1339208020_1">http://www.birdforum.net/opus/Three-striped_Warbler</span></span></a> </div><div class="yiv160574429msonormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span lang="EN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN;">Found this in wikipedia:</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span lang="EN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN;">The <b>Three-striped Warbler</b> (<i>Basileuterus tristriatus</i>) is a species of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bird" target="_blank" title="Bird"><span class="yshortcuts"><span id="lw_1339208020_2">bird</span></span></a> in the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Parulidae" target="_blank" title="Parulidae"><span class="yshortcuts"><span id="lw_1339208020_3">Parulidae</span></span></a> family.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span lang="EN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN;">It is found in <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bolivia" target="_blank" title="Bolivia"><span class="yshortcuts"><span id="lw_1339208020_4">Bolivia</span></span></a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Colombia" target="_blank" title="Colombia"><span class="yshortcuts"><span id="lw_1339208020_5">Colombia</span></span></a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Costa_Rica" target="_blank" title="Costa Rica"><span class="yshortcuts"><span id="lw_1339208020_6">Costa Rica</span></span></a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ecuador" target="_blank" title="Ecuador"><span class="yshortcuts"><span id="lw_1339208020_7">Ecuador</span></span></a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Panama" target="_blank" title="Panama"><span class="yshortcuts"><span id="lw_1339208020_8">Panama</span></span></a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Peru" target="_blank" title="Peru"><span class="yshortcuts"><span id="lw_1339208020_9">Peru</span></span></a>, and <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Venezuela" target="_blank" title="Venezuela"><span class="yshortcuts"><span id="lw_1339208020_10">Venezuela</span></span></a>. Its natural <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Habitat" target="_blank" title="Habitat"><span class="yshortcuts"><span id="lw_1339208020_11">habitats</span></span></a> are subtropical or tropical moist <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Montane_forest" target="_blank" title="Montane forest"><span class="yshortcuts"><span id="lw_1339208020_12">montane forests</span></span></a> and heavily degraded former forest.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span lang="EN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN;">Another article about this bird. It coincidently is through the <place w:st="on"><placename w:st="on">Missouri</placename> <placetype w:st="on">University</placetype></place>. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span lang="EN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN;"><a href="http://www.biosci.missouri.edu/avianecology/cox/Cox%20and%20Martin%20WJO%202009.pdf" target="_blank"><span class="yshortcuts"><span style="color: purple;"><span id="lw_1339208020_13">http://www.biosci.missouri.edu/avianecology/cox/Cox%20and%20Martin%20WJO%202009.pdf</span></span></span></a></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span lang="EN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN;">I can't imagine how the little thing made it all the way here and was so disappointed he had crashed into our window. With the changes in weather and wind currents keep looking to the skies. This is the second bird we have had that didn't belong in the area. </span><br />
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This is the link to the blog about our other "Blown Off Course" visitor. <br />
<a href="http://organicinstlouis.blogspot.com/2011/05/bird-feeder-visitor.html">http://organicinstlouis.blogspot.com/2011/05/bird-feeder-visitor.html</a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span lang="EN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN;"> For more blogs by me visit at: </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span lang="EN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN;"><a href="http://gloriouscreations.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #4d469c; font-size: 18pt;">http://gloriouscreations.blogspot.com</span></a></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span lang="EN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN;">A blog mostly about quilting, but cooking, poetry, prose and a little gardening,</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span lang="EN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN;">New blog, tutorial on how to make 5 panel Boxer Shorts.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span lang="EN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN;">New Blog about dolls.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span lang="EN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN;"><br />
<a href="http://glosgarden.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: purple; font-size: 18pt;">http://glosgarden.blogspot.com/</span></a></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span lang="EN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN;">Not a garden blog. There are articles which have nothing to do with creating or gardening. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span lang="EN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN;">There are blogs on the new born baby kittens we found and mothered. It is a blog where I voice my opinions which will always be environmentally friendly.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span lang="EN" style="color: #cc0000; mso-ansi-language: EN;">As always, any pictures or writings are my own. </span><span lang="EN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN;"></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span lang="EN" style="color: #cc0000; mso-ansi-language: EN;">Credit has been given to contributions not my own. </span><span lang="EN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN;"></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span lang="EN" style="color: #cc0000; mso-ansi-language: EN;">Please do not use without permission.</span></div> Sheepishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06867642244105284992noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670521983583754095.post-6482037655335539542012-05-01T20:42:00.001-05:002017-07-07T13:59:39.367-05:00EPAZOTE: Nature's BeanoWe were very fortunate to have two Mexican workers help us for 5 years. Not only did we learn a little Spanish but we were able to have some lessons in harvesting the wild surpluses around our house. We were treated to Bar-B-queing fish encrusted in salt. I can't even begin to describe this succulent fish.<br />
We were introduced to eating corn on the cob with Mayo or cream cheese on it. The boys would constantly save the purslane they pulled to take home with them. I googled it and tried it. The taste was fine. I tried it chopped in a cream cheese spread and steamed with butter.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO8QRGQHVD8Qa6ovb9EgzfJxwwN4hWTkOX1rtbg7iEhR2h4AmiYlXUtB_JnI6u20JrtzSDuVUBS4MS6AqPhmAyNFYxXp2cNDTvhRjxZoEaYry8TiDmkxoxLFF7RO7Ymgg_iG90EuhtCOg/s1600/epazote.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" mea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO8QRGQHVD8Qa6ovb9EgzfJxwwN4hWTkOX1rtbg7iEhR2h4AmiYlXUtB_JnI6u20JrtzSDuVUBS4MS6AqPhmAyNFYxXp2cNDTvhRjxZoEaYry8TiDmkxoxLFF7RO7Ymgg_iG90EuhtCOg/s320/epazote.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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One of the most beneficial herbs they taught us about was Epazote. We have found so much about the plant which contradicts what is said about the plant. The following two sites have the history of the herb and how they use it.<br />
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<a href="http://www.los-dos.com/yucatecan_cuisine/verarticulo.php?IdArticulo=200">http://www.los-dos.com/yucatecan_cuisine/verarticulo.php?IdArticulo=200</a></div>
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We have found our epazote is milder than what people refute it to be. Ours is very heavy on the citrus side. The creosote smell to us is more akin to the oil of citronella smell on the mosquito candles. (Too much of the herb can impart that flavor when cooked with legumes.) We cooked it with lentils and found it did prevent gas. I had the same findings when I cooked chick peas. </div>
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How much is needed in a batch of beans I don't know. I do know I put 6 stems in a 1 pound batch of dried beans and was able to taste the herb. It wasn't a bad taste but it was there. I will probably cut the amount in half the next time. Knowing it works for us as de-gasser, I went looking for methods to preserve it (I had tried drying it one year and didn't like the results.) The same thing happened with freezing it. Googling provided me with information I already knew.</div>
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I remembered I had blanched basil to make pesto. The results were a fabulous pesto which stayed green, not turning black. I am one to experiment in the kitchen. I have plenty of epazote so I gave it a try and blanched some. Voila..it worked. I dried the excess moisture off and froze it. Then I thawed it to see what I had. The only loss I experienced was a little of the flavor, which I compensated for by putting more in the package. I used it in northern beans I cooked for baked beans. The anti-gas substance was still there along with a nice citrus flavor.</div>
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Blanch it by dropping it in boiling water, stir it around for one second and take it out, placing it in ice water. Dry it by rolling it in a flour sack towel (a lint free cloth). Then I divided it into serving sizes and placed each in a sandwich baggie, squeezing out the air before closing the bag. Each bag was made flat so they could be stacked in the freezer. After they froze I put them all in a labeled freezer bag.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCbGnqMy4zhGWK8AiRQs7uRAGvwh01_93cuGOW3gtNS8CC55kZYraXheeZlwqGuEL0vs0Wz8iI5BRrxHRenObrzn-x13lTNGZnv0LZdjuJgNQTh_CLeaARLaknGgZoD1eddJHLhkFk3o0/s1600/epazote+young.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="cssfloat: right; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" mea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCbGnqMy4zhGWK8AiRQs7uRAGvwh01_93cuGOW3gtNS8CC55kZYraXheeZlwqGuEL0vs0Wz8iI5BRrxHRenObrzn-x13lTNGZnv0LZdjuJgNQTh_CLeaARLaknGgZoD1eddJHLhkFk3o0/s400/epazote+young.jpg" width="308" /></a></div>
As always, I suggest to you to, read everything you can about new foods especially wild ones. Make sure they will be a good addition to your diet. When collecting wild foods make sure you know positively what you are picking (poison ivy would not make good quiche but lambs quarters does).<br />
<a href="http://organicinstlouis.blogspot.com/2012/03/lambs-quarters-healthy-choice.html">http://organicinstlouis.blogspot.com/2012/03/lambs-quarters-healthy-choice.html</a><br />
Remember peanuts, which are a good food, can cause health problems.<br />
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The picture on the right is a young plant. A little larger than this is when I pick them. <br />
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For more blogs by me visit at: <br />
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<a href="http://gloriouscreations.blogspot.com/"><span style="color: #4d469c;"><span style="font-size: large;">http://gloriouscreations.blogspot.com</span></span></a></div>
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A blog mostly about quilting, but cooking, poetry, prose and a little gardening,</div>
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New blog, tutorial on how to make 5 panel Boxer Shorts.</div>
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<span style="color: #741b47;"><span style="background-color: #ead1dc;"> <span style="color: black;">New Article on my blog: </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #cc0000;"></span><span style="background-color: #ead1dc; color: #741b47;"> </span><a href="http://gloriouscreations.blogspot.com/2013/07/a-mystery-in-making.html"><span style="background-color: #ead1dc; color: #741b47;">http://gloriouscreations.blogspot.com/2013/07/a-mystery-in-making.html</span></a></div>
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<span style="color: black;"><span style="background-color: #ead1dc; color: #741b47;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">"A MYSTERY IN THE MAKING"</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;"><span style="background-color: #ead1dc; color: #741b47;">A mystery quilt designed with the novice in mind</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;"><span style="background-color: #ead1dc; color: #741b47;">First Clue to be presented October 16.</span></span></div>
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<a href="http://glosgarden.blogspot.com/"><span style="color: purple;"><span style="font-size: large;">http://glosgarden.blogspot.com/</span></span></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Not a garden blog. There are articles which have nothing to do with creating or gardening. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
There are blogs on the new born baby kittens we found and mothered. It is a blog where I voice my opinions which will always be environmentally friendly.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #4c1130;"><span style="color: #cc0000;">As always, any pictures or writings are my own. </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #4c1130;"><span style="color: #cc0000;">Credit has been given to contributions not my own. </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #4c1130;"><span style="color: #cc0000;">Please do not use without permission.</span></span></div>
</div>
</div>
Sheepishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06867642244105284992noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670521983583754095.post-29647796940763379072012-04-25T13:24:00.000-05:002012-04-25T13:24:46.984-05:00STRAWBERRY FIELDS<div style="text-align: justify;">We won't have Strawberry fields. We have tried that method of cultivation. It didn't work for us. Even raising the level of a row in a hump didn't help. The beds were always to wet. We have a built in water retention "pond". Just an inch or two under our soil is solid yellow clay. We are on a hill but that doesn't help because we have underground water which surfaces where ever it wants, especially when it is raining. Then there is the opposite problem when a dry spell hits the area dries up and looks like salt lake with in twenty four hours of sun and wind. I get cracks so big you can stick your thumb in them.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0dSJhXt2Orrf1ErROv4cl6Iw6_xONa6pPIMMGm33s2cJhSVf842btZTBhqyGb216vc0qj_PXLuLtVWAF6mQG34n5QWr56WSUYpoiaunPPQvT7lAK9AZIuTAvEGvNwdEEZO0suO9mSKn8/s1600/strawberry+plant+2008.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img aea="true" border="0" height="305" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0dSJhXt2Orrf1ErROv4cl6Iw6_xONa6pPIMMGm33s2cJhSVf842btZTBhqyGb216vc0qj_PXLuLtVWAF6mQG34n5QWr56WSUYpoiaunPPQvT7lAK9AZIuTAvEGvNwdEEZO0suO9mSKn8/s320/strawberry+plant+2008.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">In 2008 we started a strawberry bed. This wasn't our first try but it was the one we changed planting strategies on. Previously we had tried the strawberry field row method. Twice it was a failure. We considered that we were the inept planters. The picture on the left is a young plant from the 2008 planting. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">The plants had arrived before we were ready for them and we had to put them into pots or we'd loose them (we had never potted them before this). After potting we worked feverishly to make an area in the garden for them. We had a terrace we needed to grade to keep the water from washing down it into the green house. While working on the terrace I commented this was looking like a raised bed. I wondered if we could amend it and plant the Strawberries on the ridge. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik5Y6b5q77pdczb7HJ6co3npL__sN0nnZBK3e23oKwhcUgvLvVsDGj6yaR2dz6g2sUBP35lBY7t99qQlVuP_UG0AhAhI0-b7u8boVpYvpC-FdhBkIz5UBaYkKBKXw5xs7CUisl1G7v8xA/s1600/strawberry+first+picking+2009.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img aea="true" border="0" height="227" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik5Y6b5q77pdczb7HJ6co3npL__sN0nnZBK3e23oKwhcUgvLvVsDGj6yaR2dz6g2sUBP35lBY7t99qQlVuP_UG0AhAhI0-b7u8boVpYvpC-FdhBkIz5UBaYkKBKXw5xs7CUisl1G7v8xA/s320/strawberry+first+picking+2009.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">That evening we went and re read everything we had on Strawberry culture. We googled even more. The next day armed with information both old and new we set out converting the terrace into a strawberry bed. Hauling buckets of sand, chips, peat and more peat, and great dirt from an abandoned compost area. For the next two months I tilled the area once a week regardless of whether it needed it or not. We wanted the area totally weed free. Weeds are the strawberry bed's worst nightmare (besides slugs).</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">The picture on the right is our first harvest in 2009. That planting not only survived two years it was still producing heavily for 5 years. We diligently weeded and mulched the bed and it paid us back for our efforts.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkLQRaKlKER5-y5DtmsDxtiazAe8rFUSMxLfwBmRjOsKel2s5VcO2wr1A4nz5cOFapic4J4YvDNi03ienRaDWS8PLVuhhGUfyeYQJHFPOIEk6TAXuV_lVNoHFiFEYJvqPLX6IDK2HH8Rw/s1600/strawberry+bed+2010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img aea="true" border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkLQRaKlKER5-y5DtmsDxtiazAe8rFUSMxLfwBmRjOsKel2s5VcO2wr1A4nz5cOFapic4J4YvDNi03ienRaDWS8PLVuhhGUfyeYQJHFPOIEk6TAXuV_lVNoHFiFEYJvqPLX6IDK2HH8Rw/s200/strawberry+bed+2010.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFPd0BhHlxRdVsNAwhhQ6ACFMwMSkF_8eUfXLEvTZQ1gEpVeqKe5JlxW2Zt5fzKXxuzG_cNB0r3VaJRlVjWmxOMyqvnuk_TepttkvDSVxzgwTSAKnjm0gfyBOVbbQECftkUUXrZkNf7C4/s1600/strawberry+first+pick+2010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img aea="true" border="0" height="118" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFPd0BhHlxRdVsNAwhhQ6ACFMwMSkF_8eUfXLEvTZQ1gEpVeqKe5JlxW2Zt5fzKXxuzG_cNB0r3VaJRlVjWmxOMyqvnuk_TepttkvDSVxzgwTSAKnjm0gfyBOVbbQECftkUUXrZkNf7C4/s200/strawberry+first+pick+2010.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Fast forward to 2010. The bed is still producing and growing great. The bed is only 10 x 3 feet. We were picking a minimum of 6 quarts a day from it. The left picture is about 6 feet of that bed when it started blooming in 2010. The picture on the right is the first 6 boxes we picked off the bed in 2010.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4uxsUXahj1HWUERGNd8kNG4rh-E7NRgFiZiT1LdMHZc7iFSTV4Czupn3ejVcTRhY0YO_03YH54_P9HUfmfvnZ8zHUXGSVbV_uwlG6OMlneasws3378h7J6u7IhlwIyI7YTLVK3VH3q58/s1600/strawberry+first+pick+dessert+2010..jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img aea="true" border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4uxsUXahj1HWUERGNd8kNG4rh-E7NRgFiZiT1LdMHZc7iFSTV4Czupn3ejVcTRhY0YO_03YH54_P9HUfmfvnZ8zHUXGSVbV_uwlG6OMlneasws3378h7J6u7IhlwIyI7YTLVK3VH3q58/s320/strawberry+first+pick+dessert+2010..jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">This is our dessert plate that night. The next few weeks we were picking morning and night. I was making strawberry shakes, strawberry pies, freezing berries, and making preserves. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilaNIdbskSqxIFzbkpbLBj4PmoXq95Kzz000sqeH-F5HzGEBZrWg4qD2Y89xJOdDh_Q0iXMvGEQOzgns87x7eD91kqK6vgChokRwZOh8GBC2oycd_OVuYwQZJKg998geJEN9Gv6vvlGOk/s1600/strawberry+jelly+2010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img aea="true" border="0" height="159" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilaNIdbskSqxIFzbkpbLBj4PmoXq95Kzz000sqeH-F5HzGEBZrWg4qD2Y89xJOdDh_Q0iXMvGEQOzgns87x7eD91kqK6vgChokRwZOh8GBC2oycd_OVuYwQZJKg998geJEN9Gv6vvlGOk/s320/strawberry+jelly+2010.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">I can't tell you how much preserves I made because I was giving it away. </div><div style="text-align: center;">I did put back 48 jars for ourselves.</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">I have mentioned in 2011 we didn't garden. The rain never stopped and the heat kept getting hotter. It wasn't a good scene for strawberries. Each day we could see the bed dwindling. All sorts of fuguses were showing up rotting a plant here and another one there. Our terraced bed did not save them from being too wet. They never were able to dry off. We lost the whole bed, and any chance of starting a new bed from runners off the old plants.</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">We are now in the same desparate place as you are. We need to make a new bed. I have the plants, They are cozy in their pots. The following blog is about these plants:</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://organicinstlouis.blogspot.com/2012/03/strawberry-plants.html">http://organicinstlouis.blogspot.com/2012/03/strawberry-plants.html</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"> For more blogs by me visit at: </div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://gloriouscreations.blogspot.com/"><span style="color: #4d469c;">http://gloriouscreations.blogspot.com</span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">A blog mostly about quilting, but cooking, poetry, prose and a little gardening,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">New blog, tutorial on how to make 5 panel Boxer Shorts.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">New Blog about dolls.</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
<a href="http://glosgarden.blogspot.com/"><span style="color: purple;">http://glosgarden.blogspot.com/</span></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Not a garden blog. There are articles which have nothing to do with creating or gardening. </div><div style="text-align: center;">There are blogs on the new born baby kittens we found and mothered. It is a blog where I voice my opinions which will always be environmentally friendly.</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #4c1130;"><span style="color: #cc0000;">As always, any pictures or writings are my own. </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #4c1130;"><span style="color: #cc0000;">Credit has been given to contributions not my own. </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #4c1130;"><span style="color: #cc0000;">Please do not use without permission.</span></span></div></div>Sheepishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06867642244105284992noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670521983583754095.post-53591580371962338192012-03-30T15:39:00.000-05:002013-03-22T11:09:04.489-05:00GARDEN BEDS<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAn5W5o92W2YUXtGG5Aez74JPTaLrAg-pKQVt-DYB3O-wBWwHdsuCNRUahQ_cIWpnU8bbFPphrphG7YIJ5oF6jJamsfMbRkoMo_cYXbmva3vx2muCaIyp0149BAHa1U8XvcwU52nSiavw/s1600/east+center+gate+left+3+30+12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" dea="true" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAn5W5o92W2YUXtGG5Aez74JPTaLrAg-pKQVt-DYB3O-wBWwHdsuCNRUahQ_cIWpnU8bbFPphrphG7YIJ5oF6jJamsfMbRkoMo_cYXbmva3vx2muCaIyp0149BAHa1U8XvcwU52nSiavw/s400/east+center+gate+left+3+30+12.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
As you can see our garden is still not back to its use able state. I have slowly been reclaiming it. Between working on it, I also have potting and planting to do. <br />
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Three days ago I started on the area to the right of this gate. It was in the same condition this side is. It was necessary to grub out weeds and tear down old retaining walls made of bricks and cement blocks. The freeze and thaws of two winters had done a number on them, not to mention the weeds root systems prying them apart. I dry lay all my beds because I know I will probably want to change them. A dry laid wall can have a life span of more than three years if the rows of bricks are stacked with a slight stair stepped edge. that way when the ground swells and pushes against them it doesn't push them off the row below.<br />
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If you didn't see the article before of how we are reclaiming the garden here is the link:<br />
<a href="http://organicinstlouis.blogspot.com/2012/03/garden-reclamation.html">http://organicinstlouis.blogspot.com/2012/03/garden-reclamation.html</a><br />
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The following picture is to the right of the gate on the outside of the garden. The area runs parallel to the gravel drive. You can see the bunch grass on the edge of the drive I haven't grubbed out yet. This grass has a huge root system that is like an underground mop. I needed to work the area first and build the walls so I could salvage what good dirt was left. I cleared enough area to begin working.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisDclRaMKg3M-G-Plj11HNaHJxQqmfb6MCyM-zzNOt-7b708x0yqRLQdHHzHtTH04UJlAIsJTXhaGZIgrB8SX5B0f_OimWlactNRJ-P8h3tgLw8_5d_qpEMhxLpapKF6xWzJJ6AZ9-T_w/s1600/east+center+gate+right+3+30+12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" dea="true" height="288" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisDclRaMKg3M-G-Plj11HNaHJxQqmfb6MCyM-zzNOt-7b708x0yqRLQdHHzHtTH04UJlAIsJTXhaGZIgrB8SX5B0f_OimWlactNRJ-P8h3tgLw8_5d_qpEMhxLpapKF6xWzJJ6AZ9-T_w/s640/east+center+gate+right+3+30+12.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
The fireplace tile and the lamb's ears were always there. It was hard to believe the lambs ears survived in the wet environment with the weeds. The basket in the bed was a basket I had planted with house plants and the bottom rotted out of it. I thought, this is going to get recycled another year. Today It became a pansy basket. I used coconut mat to line it with. I had a couple of small pieces left from another project. The ajuga is blooming all over the garden. I find it buried in the weeds. The dark green plant is a "Malva". It is one that was growing last year. The winter didn't turn it to mush. The light green plant is "Feverfew". It survived too. if you look closely at the base of the stake on the right you will see a "Jackman clematis". Two on this fence survived the two winters and the weeds. I almost pulled this one along with the weeds.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHYpcRbFJnGfqfjV6YnUiLImrPF9SpDkKxtHGRiQY8Dpvyo8X_C9dHg0EWDDGP4LE5FRPCRk-Jx2gDvyirAO9ovHWQGWn2IGFtS-TAF8han22BlDYz_Y4Ah9rzN3EBVa9-rx8nxI6fAZk/s1600/east+center+gate+right++center+3+30+12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" dea="true" height="177" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHYpcRbFJnGfqfjV6YnUiLImrPF9SpDkKxtHGRiQY8Dpvyo8X_C9dHg0EWDDGP4LE5FRPCRk-Jx2gDvyirAO9ovHWQGWn2IGFtS-TAF8han22BlDYz_Y4Ah9rzN3EBVa9-rx8nxI6fAZk/s400/east+center+gate+right++center+3+30+12.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
The center section of the area to the right of the gate was left soil less. I scraped down to the clay to make enough soil to fill the bed on the left.<br />
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Ajuga isn't soil particular. It will grow in clay as well as your best loam. It doesn't even complain when water is short. I fashioned a bird bath with a large ceramic drain tray from a flower pot and a kitty litter pail turned upside down.<br />
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The area we have been working with is approximately 32 feet long. The fence is made of two 16 feet long cattle panels. <br />
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To the far right of the gate I made another bed. It has a basket too. This basket is lined with 2 sheets of news paper. By the time the roots of any plants have filled the basket the paper will dissolve and the roots will hold the soil in. As yet the bed and basket are not planted. There is a clematis in the bed and the ajuga. right now I am planning to put thyme in the basket and tarragon in the bed. These are both items the deer won't eat. They are decorative in the flower garden as well as edible. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzv-gZK3YL-rGezJf-JKXGhgXZ7MLBkDeJ_iVZI2VUprJjxUGgtNjx5KPJwrnqJ5aiCNnGgKCoAVJ7qhefsU7sTEzDgg3bcSp6TO6JLtL2QHbTwDpkfLyao0hB2eklIs6A-T4e5KC_8hA/s1600/east+center+gate+far+right+3+30+12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" dea="true" height="246" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzv-gZK3YL-rGezJf-JKXGhgXZ7MLBkDeJ_iVZI2VUprJjxUGgtNjx5KPJwrnqJ5aiCNnGgKCoAVJ7qhefsU7sTEzDgg3bcSp6TO6JLtL2QHbTwDpkfLyao0hB2eklIs6A-T4e5KC_8hA/s640/east+center+gate+far+right+3+30+12.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Looking at this picture as I type I think I will look to see what chives I have coming up and put the along the fence to keep the weeds down. I have use chives for decorative purposes before. </div>
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The following is a blog on how I used them:</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> <a href="http://organicinstlouis.blogspot.com/2009/06/chives-make-statement.html">http://organicinstlouis.blogspot.com/2009/06/chives-make-statement.html</a></span><span style="font-size: x-small;"></span></div>
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When I look at this and think, three days..doesn't look like much. Then I remember I only worked on it for three hours each morning till the sun got too much for me and I went in the barn to pot plants. </div>
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In the evenings I have been clearing out raised beds and planting them with broccoli, potatoes and onions. Right now our tiller is kaput and I am having to use a grub hoe and I am very happy I had great soil which was not compacted by waiting for me two years.<br />
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I have found it is harder to repair the damage done by neglect <br />
than it was to construct the garden in the first place.</div>
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For more blogs by me visit at:</div>
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<a href="http://gloriouscreations.blogspot.com/"><span style="color: #4d469c;"><span style="font-size: large;">http://gloriouscreations.blogspot.com</span></span></a></div>
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A blog mostly about quilting, but cooking, poetry, prose and a little gardening,</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
New blog, tutorial on how to make 5 panel Boxer Shorts.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
New Blog about dolls.</div>
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</div>
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</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<a href="http://glosgarden.blogspot.com/"><span style="color: purple;"><span style="font-size: large;">http://glosgarden.blogspot.com/</span></span></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Not a garden blog. There are articles which have nothing to do with creating or gardening. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
There are blogs on the new born baby kittens we found and mothered. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
new blog about an endangered beetle: </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://glosgarden.blogspot.com/2012/03/beetle-in-need-of-protection.html">http://glosgarden.blogspot.com/2012/03/beetle-in-need-of-protection.html</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It is a blog where I voice my opinions which will always be environmentally friendly.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
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<span style="color: #4c1130;"><span style="color: #cc0000;">As always, any pictures or writings are my own. </span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #4c1130;"><span style="color: #cc0000;">Credit has been given to contributions not my own. </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #4c1130;"><span style="color: #cc0000;">Please do not use without permission.</span></span></div>
Sheepishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06867642244105284992noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670521983583754095.post-47370919062403571362012-03-23T19:59:00.008-05:002012-05-01T13:37:20.549-05:00STRAWBERRY PLANTS (A TUTORIAL)<div style="text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaB_an6KW19hYECPkKnZL4rfG_WwgLHDDsLdbCpwKxEWmBToJMmV2-6ApIx6PoLE0qjXigjmpC27vqhFTX3xeR2qJlxW-PgLrisLU3bZNwZnLQr5-ODffb4JZUQTXRw1Zobh-Q0bsqTBk/s1600/Strawberry+earliglow+pkg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="281" nda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaB_an6KW19hYECPkKnZL4rfG_WwgLHDDsLdbCpwKxEWmBToJMmV2-6ApIx6PoLE0qjXigjmpC27vqhFTX3xeR2qJlxW-PgLrisLU3bZNwZnLQr5-ODffb4JZUQTXRw1Zobh-Q0bsqTBk/s320/Strawberry+earliglow+pkg.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Hunny came home with a package which arrived in the mail. He told me some seeds came. I said I wasn't expecting any seeds. We had supper, then I opened the package. It wasn't seeds, it was our strawberry plants. Oh my, we aren't ready for them. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;">It wasn't the fact there wasn't a bed ready for them. We knew we weren't going to have a bed ready till late summer. We had ordered the plants to pot culture them until they could go into the ground. <br />
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Hopefully it will give us a year head start. Yes, it will mean extra work. We'll have to re pot a couple of times. This requires extra mixing of dirt. It also requires a staging area for keeping them safe. The picture on the left is how our plants arrived. They were in a sealed plastic bag. The plants were rubber banded in a bundle. <br />
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</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;">We ordered our plants from <a href="http://www.jungseed.com/">http://www.jungseed.com/</a> . The plants were really nice, with fully developed root systems. They were dry rooted but the roots were not dry. They were nice and fleshy.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;">When you receive your plants, the first thing you want to do is open them up and check the condition of the bunch. (Your plants come with instructions on the care the producer recommends). I have my own ideas which work for me. I remove the banding, place the bunch in a container and rinse the roots, draining thoroughly. When drained, I stand them in the container to wait till I can plant them. This is to be the next day. Only the roots are in the container. I want the stems and leaves to be out in the air and the roots protected so they don't get dried out. (Do not leave them in the plastic bag. They will mold and rot.)<br />
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</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Today is 14 hours later and I am in the barn preparing to get my precious plants in their pots.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOANwwcNEj1wDWWV5jTVROm0fVvgeXp9niltK_B9-6UHdNQClV_YlbU9JDUAfnxodjZMR05avMQX9JVPh1An2deZZRL4_dnT5J8a-ZX6MPbf2FJsb9O5YPwTsrrcNzKiPuBs-jK0M15uk/s1600/equipment+2+wheel+barrow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img aea="true" border="0" height="126" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOANwwcNEj1wDWWV5jTVROm0fVvgeXp9niltK_B9-6UHdNQClV_YlbU9JDUAfnxodjZMR05avMQX9JVPh1An2deZZRL4_dnT5J8a-ZX6MPbf2FJsb9O5YPwTsrrcNzKiPuBs-jK0M15uk/s200/equipment+2+wheel+barrow.jpg" width="200" /></a></div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil1LubugWv9NONZsGAAM1U8sqHCzHr_pqgzTJWp9rVHFl4jZoBRpFYWGQcnSrI_6NI2ziK2thyphenhyphenXTaniTh3rOmMkOsXLSXjLlsd3nUvmfCBQuTf_SBN9Mezm518FbRXoS1eq0LDgbv855o/s1600/Strawberry+planting+pots.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img aea="true" border="0" height="152" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil1LubugWv9NONZsGAAM1U8sqHCzHr_pqgzTJWp9rVHFl4jZoBRpFYWGQcnSrI_6NI2ziK2thyphenhyphenXTaniTh3rOmMkOsXLSXjLlsd3nUvmfCBQuTf_SBN9Mezm518FbRXoS1eq0LDgbv855o/s200/Strawberry+planting+pots.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">NEEDED EQUIPMENT:</div><div style="text-align: justify;">(50) 4 Inch pots and trays, <br />
Large plastic wheel barrow (the 40 lb kitty litter bucket is for size comparison), 4 cup Pyrex measuring cup, microwave, large stainless spoon, scissors, plastic labels, sharpie marker,<br />
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DIRT INGREDIENTS: peat moss, rice hulls, bone meal, Epsom salts, good compost dirt, rotted wood chips, dried manure, sand and fish emulsion,</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;">After rounding up everything, I set about mixing dirt. I was able to short circuit part of the process. I had several large pots of dirt from house plants I lost due to cold. But the dirt wasn't friable enough for strawberries. I needed to add other ingredients. <br />
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</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;">In my huge 2 wheel plastic barrow I mix my dirt. I use a 40 pound kitty litter pail for measuring (the one you buy the litter in).</div><div style="text-align: justify;">One pail ground peat moss which has been rubbed till it contains no lumps. </div><div style="text-align: justify;">One half pail of rice hulls.<br />
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</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Mix these together till they are thoroughly combined.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Start adding hot water. I heat 4 cups of water at the time in the microwave (in the barn we don't have a kitchen and I don't pay to use the water heater.) I heat the water for 9 minutes. It is extremely hot but not boiling (It is a cheaper micro not real high powered). Pour it on the mixture and stir like mad and then go heat more. It usually takes about 5 trips to get the mixture till it feels moist. Why do I use hot water? If you use cold water it won't be quickly absorbed by the peat moss. The hot water is absorbed immediately.<br />
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At this point I would normally add approximately a pail of good compost dirt, 1/2 pail of pulverized dried manure, a 1/4 pail of rotted wood chips, and a 1/4 pail of sand. I would incorporate it with the peat mixture. I would dust the surface with 2 large handfuls of Epsom salts and 4 large handfuls of bone meal, stirring everything together. Instead I just dumped the pots with the old dirt in the peat mixture and added the bone meal and Epsom salts.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
Right now, I am hearing groans and gasps. Why? Because I am using old, already been used dirt. Unsterilized dirt! My theory is; they would be planted in the ground and I didn't sterilize it. The plants in the pot did not die of disease or anything kin to that. So I can dump the pots on the compost pile and wait a year to reuse it or use it right now. The detriment for me in using it is the dirt will have weed seeds in it and I will have to be weeding the pots.<br />
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Everything is ready to begin. The first thing I do is fill a short jar with a wide mouth with fish emulsion water. It is large enough to soak the roots of the plants with out submerging the crowns. I get an old rag and set it on the table in front of me with the scissors (rag is to soak up the dripping water from the roots). We are going to prune the roots of the plants.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGTP_ipqV7uGIKpq2P4rOxQT8CjKEYvqqFrNjcJfW84ytv8XWLiV-Md2u5u-nd_ogHnBa29O0xQUgRaM_9SKmeLE3eoCgUnisSfcUQe2A8nrAvCcwzRA13Em2wySTn38S3i7u7XXTIkqI/s1600/Strawberry+root+pruning.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img aea="true" border="0" height="220" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGTP_ipqV7uGIKpq2P4rOxQT8CjKEYvqqFrNjcJfW84ytv8XWLiV-Md2u5u-nd_ogHnBa29O0xQUgRaM_9SKmeLE3eoCgUnisSfcUQe2A8nrAvCcwzRA13Em2wySTn38S3i7u7XXTIkqI/s400/Strawberry+root+pruning.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
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The picture on the right has a pruned plant and an un-pruned plant. The instructions said to prune to 4-6 inches. Because I am pot culturing them I pruned to three inches. (They need to fit in the pot.) </div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;">At this time I also trim off any dead stems and leaves. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXHKydcuZgzFfIGUBf0gtpAm7mj3yTms1HNGKvbGXfKPvStSaa0_UQJLPq8tC1Asr-4KvUzuMjlb-MLgWI1h4nDozuGWAHYkr13uOQqzWOFrzyOjyh0BsJwFaSicHIS9QOF6ezD_DW3ZI/s1600/Strawberry+pot+planting+dirt+cone.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img aea="true" border="0" height="117" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXHKydcuZgzFfIGUBf0gtpAm7mj3yTms1HNGKvbGXfKPvStSaa0_UQJLPq8tC1Asr-4KvUzuMjlb-MLgWI1h4nDozuGWAHYkr13uOQqzWOFrzyOjyh0BsJwFaSicHIS9QOF6ezD_DW3ZI/s200/Strawberry+pot+planting+dirt+cone.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLdNEyERD7iV0wQ2oGAMWKVqhu5Mw-CvCOOhmUkxJG76IBKCrYautXCZmtW_X6fOdcRuVbMgJsb8xWEIM6P2mOfyAOulyLSj7QfpaMFo26i573vDrulz4tJK3uKlGnSd_n_Aa_oaTKUyU/s1600/Strawberry+planting+roots+spread.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img aea="true" border="0" height="191" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLdNEyERD7iV0wQ2oGAMWKVqhu5Mw-CvCOOhmUkxJG76IBKCrYautXCZmtW_X6fOdcRuVbMgJsb8xWEIM6P2mOfyAOulyLSj7QfpaMFo26i573vDrulz4tJK3uKlGnSd_n_Aa_oaTKUyU/s200/Strawberry+planting+roots+spread.jpg" width="200" /></a>Fill your pots with dirt. Then dump out one third and press the remainder firmly into the bottom. You want to make a cone shape in the center. I tried to picture it but it doesn't show as well as I hoped.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The purpose of the cone is to spread the roots around. You don't just do this in the pot, you do this when planting outside. You don't want your roots to be crimped. You will want to make your cone so the top of it is about 1/2" below the rim of the pot. Perch your plant on it and cover the roots with soil mix and firmly pack the soil over the roots.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">HOW DEEP DO YOU PLANT THE PLANTS?</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRxDbB-wdnXQwZ0aBEpPaN-ch7z-IKWZ4u9BZokm9KVYcVxY9zKHZiWh9y4TO4EYgNeIcHc_K8sv-PndQfrbxqPNfvg4L9ndjzeoGPRLp0mcB0SvlLINgm8V9IkSmy0meAFTEY8a3QosU/s1600/Strawberry+crown+discription.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img aea="true" border="0" height="356" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRxDbB-wdnXQwZ0aBEpPaN-ch7z-IKWZ4u9BZokm9KVYcVxY9zKHZiWh9y4TO4EYgNeIcHc_K8sv-PndQfrbxqPNfvg4L9ndjzeoGPRLp0mcB0SvlLINgm8V9IkSmy0meAFTEY8a3QosU/s640/Strawberry+crown+discription.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"> Make sure you do not bury the crown too deep or leave it exposed to the air. Either position is hazardous to the health of your plant. How do you determine what is right? Your plants will come with a planting guide (the growers want you to have success with them, they want repeat customers, lol.)</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div></div><div style="text-align: justify;">I have drawn an explanation which I hope will help. The plant has an area between the roots and the leaves. I call this the crown. When you bury it you don't want the roots exposed and you don't want the crown exposed. You don't want the dirt higher than the base of the leaves. If the dirt is above the base of the leaves moisture can get into the crevices and cause rot. If the Crown is exposed it can dry out.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjllONCn_MF-8S0KjdPMYTwaHrda13ljn-1gm_BVyuRzjLKfTFrgSHkiQnfH_fXHN4-AC_vy9lRMbFNZVJ8TdruG3pMaeYN1OETRxL44bFh2yYvpLqmoX_L7oFoEt0yYKcssZrZadiX1Z0/s1600/Strawberry+planted+flat+3+23+12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img aea="true" border="0" height="181" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjllONCn_MF-8S0KjdPMYTwaHrda13ljn-1gm_BVyuRzjLKfTFrgSHkiQnfH_fXHN4-AC_vy9lRMbFNZVJ8TdruG3pMaeYN1OETRxL44bFh2yYvpLqmoX_L7oFoEt0yYKcssZrZadiX1Z0/s400/Strawberry+planted+flat+3+23+12.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>This is a planted flat of 10 of the strawberry plants. It is March 23, 2012. When they start leafing out I will add pictures to show their growth.<br />
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This flat was watered in with fish emulsion water. I use 1 Tablespoon of commercial fish emulsion with one gallon water.<br />
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When the plant's roots fill the pot, they will be transplanted to a pot that will be an inch larger and deeper. Right now they will be in the green house until The weather has become more stable. Our Valley can become extremely cold and frosts when the local area does not. The tender new growth will be very susceptible to frost damage.<br />
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Strawberries take two years for a crop but they are worth the wait. Yes, the plants will bloom this year. We will go into that step in another blog. I hope you will try planting strawberries. Next Blog will be the preparation of a strawberry bed. <br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ9GvkdTjPDSZsuPzETfEIFEG5N8S2gEryWyWyD5zBneB-MIm2XeJ-9kN30SrtChCPB-jnv7_5cXhBhqnLDujVbaBT43ESiNnNPZ9yXT8qvNfho9M6BETpsUozgcLnb6RonIEEAlyZYvI/s1600/Strawberry+planted+flats+4+4+12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" nda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ9GvkdTjPDSZsuPzETfEIFEG5N8S2gEryWyWyD5zBneB-MIm2XeJ-9kN30SrtChCPB-jnv7_5cXhBhqnLDujVbaBT43ESiNnNPZ9yXT8qvNfho9M6BETpsUozgcLnb6RonIEEAlyZYvI/s320/Strawberry+planted+flats+4+4+12.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
<span style="color: #741b47;">UPDATE APRIL 5, 2012: </span><br />
<span style="color: #741b47;">These are the planted flats. It has been 12 days since they were planted. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #741b47;">We are expecting a brush with frost tomorrow. They are still in the green house. </span><br />
<span style="color: #741b47;">I didn't have a measuring device in this picture but the tallest is only about 3 inches tall. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #274e13;">UPDATE APRIL 26, 2012</span><br />
<span style="color: #274e13;">The following pictures are of the plants today. The trowel is there so you can see the size. The roots are showing through the bottom of the pot. This weekend we will spend moving them to new homes.</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4BxssO-OKyOZ1jhCGY8oGBIZnsmMU6BcYqW4K-NrC4XZB1N46RpXK8YUDKfgWT3RF3214oFku1JyFJerR3mAa1b5q-IRz-NE3iD1N-EyyO0mv6XW2B0jEHC6NyTYaWSFjCYFTTgYSisA/s1600/Strawberry+4-26-12+roots+escaping+pot.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" oda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4BxssO-OKyOZ1jhCGY8oGBIZnsmMU6BcYqW4K-NrC4XZB1N46RpXK8YUDKfgWT3RF3214oFku1JyFJerR3mAa1b5q-IRz-NE3iD1N-EyyO0mv6XW2B0jEHC6NyTYaWSFjCYFTTgYSisA/s320/Strawberry+4-26-12+roots+escaping+pot.jpg" width="310" /></a></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhosSKIXypAasfDAxS0ZjSOH5kMfvKdBIRcp6Li7IgcOrzSI4J71Xl4VUhQM8OMcJCFZUYV7bNNP3FiMzAsBjj4YnQnDIFA8CCAlg1JsqAbNylQLhGegyt5t9KTyWaZDPCjHeKqlKdEjjg/s1600/Strawberry+4-26-12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" oda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhosSKIXypAasfDAxS0ZjSOH5kMfvKdBIRcp6Li7IgcOrzSI4J71Xl4VUhQM8OMcJCFZUYV7bNNP3FiMzAsBjj4YnQnDIFA8CCAlg1JsqAbNylQLhGegyt5t9KTyWaZDPCjHeKqlKdEjjg/s320/Strawberry+4-26-12.jpg" width="232" /></a><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: red;">UPDATE APRIL 29:</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4fZ5TywITaYMZIT983M5H-m6cqs1i68250419z7YJ9c_Q3wVJEwNEWYOGWn2ctIh2AgKfOsIuVNal_toc4fwrHAUrJ8tF2UXEu88Ce8RjiNJ11EVCY2f5sTrZBn_4IMSlQCj3vlPn-Nw/s1600/strawberry+4-28+re+pot+roots+bare.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" mea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4fZ5TywITaYMZIT983M5H-m6cqs1i68250419z7YJ9c_Q3wVJEwNEWYOGWn2ctIh2AgKfOsIuVNal_toc4fwrHAUrJ8tF2UXEu88Ce8RjiNJ11EVCY2f5sTrZBn_4IMSlQCj3vlPn-Nw/s320/strawberry+4-28+re+pot+roots+bare.jpg" width="169" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqQfTlo0vyx_IbeQNaOailelOewO5Hn44ITZqrV8iRVlbLlzQdqb1k-Nlk5DskdsdozMul7vmIVDW3QpeOYKyV39Ldi_DdUiqacIgxmBC7w6QPXFu_-ZYka7ONB2gk0giTz_xCnnqvhwg/s1600/strawberry+4-28+re+pot+root+bound.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" mea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqQfTlo0vyx_IbeQNaOailelOewO5Hn44ITZqrV8iRVlbLlzQdqb1k-Nlk5DskdsdozMul7vmIVDW3QpeOYKyV39Ldi_DdUiqacIgxmBC7w6QPXFu_-ZYka7ONB2gk0giTz_xCnnqvhwg/s320/strawberry+4-28+re+pot+root+bound.jpg" width="240" /></a><span style="font-family: Arial;"></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Times New Roman;">The picture on the left is the above pot unveiled. You can see it is getting "root-bound". When ever you see roots peeking through the bottom of the pot you should take the plant out of the pot and inspect it to make sure it isn't getting root-bound</span></span><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Times New Roman;">. </span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Times New Roman;">Root-bound pots do not take up nutrients well.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Times New Roman;">The picture on the right is the plant with the dirt shaken off the roots. I did not water for 24 hours before I knew I was going to re pot. It makes it easier to shake the dirt off. Yes, I do replace all the dirt with a fresh mix when I re pot. I do this because I want to give them the best possible environment. Someone might tell me I am causing them more transplanting shock. I haven't found this to be a problem. I trim the roots down to about 4 inches and then re pot spreading the roots out in a fan in the pot. I am very careful to watch the placement of the crown. </span></span><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Times New Roman;">At this time I also deflowered the plant. (Notice the flower which had popped up since the 26). You want to pick all flowers off the plants this first year. You want the plants to put their energies into growing and making runners for more plants. <span style="color: blue;">(The dirt which I shook off the plants is not going to be relagated to the compost pile. I will use it to repot some banana plants and house plants.)</span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimHn4h6Rt4NebGdKfveNvsvcn44DiXkdlCU9Q8q38KWTs45CD6kybgr19n7gVwdneQ2Jr50SHig62P2bhXjwSK9k_RPC8S4EhfZlCAzx3-4DDMf8DM7B5hzngRq9FhlbS06oqaEyIyyN4/s1600/strawberry+4-28+re+pot+crown.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" mea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimHn4h6Rt4NebGdKfveNvsvcn44DiXkdlCU9Q8q38KWTs45CD6kybgr19n7gVwdneQ2Jr50SHig62P2bhXjwSK9k_RPC8S4EhfZlCAzx3-4DDMf8DM7B5hzngRq9FhlbS06oqaEyIyyN4/s320/strawberry+4-28+re+pot+crown.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Times New Roman;">Left is the strawberry plant re potted in it's new dirt which has been fortified with bone meal, Epsom salts, and dried manure in a mixture of rice hulls and peat moss blended with dirt which was the remnants of a compost pile (equal parts). </span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Times New Roman;">After it was potted I submerged the pot in water laced with fish emulsion. Use a receptacle that is 3 times the depth of your pot. Fill 3/4 full of water and then emerge your pot in it till the surface of the pot is under the water (don't worry about the crown of the plant getting wet at this point). You will see bubbles rising from the pot. Do not remove the pot till the bubbles stop (keep the surface of the pot under the surface of the water by at least 1/2 inch). Then place on a rack to drain. If you are new to gardening, all plants, when re-potted should be submerged in water to drive the air pockets out of the pots and settles the dirt around the roots. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Times New Roman;">I am hoping this potting will hold them at least another 6 weeks before they need new and larger home. </span></span><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Times New Roman;">(I'm smiling, I had a thought. My strawberries are like hermit crabs, when they outgrow their shells they move to a larger one.)</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Times New Roman;">I used homemade fish emulsion which I need to write a blog about, it was not an unpleasant endeavor. Right now I am learning how much to use of my homemade stuff. I am not too concerned about too much because for this year I want to get as much lush green growth as I can. I want these plant strong so they will give me a robust crop of their little red gems next year.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: red;">I hope my blog has inspired you to get some strawberry plants this year, even if you don't have the area prepared for them. You can pot them and get your beds ready and plant in the middle of summer (I will be updating this blog with every step I do with the plants.)</span><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: black;">I have another blog about strawberries:</span></div></div><a href="http://organicinstlouis.blogspot.com/2012/04/strawberry-fields.html"><span style="font-size: large;">http://organicinstlouis.blogspot.com/2012/04/strawberry-fields.html</span></a><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">For more blogs by me visit at:</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://gloriouscreations.blogspot.com/"><span style="color: #4d469c; font-size: x-large;">http://gloriouscreations.blogspot.com</span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">A blog mostly about quilting, but cooking, poetry, prose and a little gardening,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">New blog, tutorial on how to make 5 panel Boxer Shorts.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">New Blog about dolls.</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
<a href="http://glosgarden.blogspot.com/"><span style="color: purple; font-size: x-large;">http://glosgarden.blogspot.com/</span></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Not a garden blog. There are articles which have nothing to do with creating or gardening. </div><div style="text-align: center;">There are blogs on the new born baby kittens we found and mothered. It is a blog where I voice my opinions which will always be environmentally friendly.</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #4c1130;"><span style="color: #cc0000;">As always, any pictures or writings are my own. </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #4c1130;"><span style="color: #cc0000;">Credit has been given to contributions not my own. </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #4c1130;"><span style="color: #cc0000;">Please do not use without permission.</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Sheepishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06867642244105284992noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670521983583754095.post-59779528837761954882012-03-23T08:26:00.000-05:002012-03-23T08:26:26.284-05:00PROTECT THIS BEETLE<div align="center"><span style="font-size: x-large;">"BURYING BEETLE" RE INTRODUCTION</span></div><div align="center"><img height="260" id="il_fi" src="http://www.rwpzoo.org/sites/default/files/content-four-images/ABB_MaleandFemale-514X260px.gif?1319139745" style="padding-bottom: 8px; padding-right: 8px; padding-top: 8px;" width="514" /></div><div align="center">Each morning the alarm wakes us an hour before our intended waking time. We do this because we have discovered we get our best sleep after the alarm goes off. The radio is set on the local PBS channel. This is fund raiser week. They have interesting articles not the regular early morning news and stock reports. Normally I will hear excerpts here and there and dose back off. This morning I heard what I thought was "Dairying Beetle being re introduced in Missouri" Googled when I got up and discovered it was "Burying Beetle".</div><div align="center"></div><div align="center"><span style="color: red;">The above picture was copied from the following site:</span></div><div align="center"><a href="http://www.rwpzoo.org/143/american-burying-beetle-repopulation-project"><span style="color: red;">http://www.rwpzoo.org/143/american-burying-beetle-repopulation-project</span></a></div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">I remember seeing this beetle when I was growing up in the boot heel of Missouri. Dad had a garden in Caruthersville. In fact we were always finding all kinds of beetles under rocks and in leaf piles. It was difficult to read the information on this beetle knowing mankind is contributing to his demise. </div><div align="center">The following link takes you to the Columbia, Missouri News report:</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center"><a href="http://www.columbiamissourian.com/stories/2012/02/09/endangered-beetle-species-will-be-first-endangered-animal-be-reintroduced-missouri/">http://www.columbiamissourian.com/stories/2012/02/09/endangered-beetle-species-will-be-first-endangered-animal-be-reintroduced-missouri/</a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">An indepth article on the beetle:</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www-museum.unl.edu/research/entomology/endanger.htm"><span style="font-size: large;">http://www-museum.unl.edu/research/entomology/endanger.htm</span></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">These Beetles only live for a year. They mate for life. They co parent. They farm. </div><div style="text-align: center;">Makes you stop and think.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">"WHAT'S IN STORE FOR US"</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">For more blogs by me visit at:</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://gloriouscreations.blogspot.com/"><span style="color: #4d469c;">http://gloriouscreations.blogspot.com</span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">A blog mostly about quilting, but cooking, poetry, prose and a little gardening,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">New blog, tutorial on how to make 5 panel Boxer Shorts.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">New Blog about dolls.</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
<a href="http://glosgarden.blogspot.com/"><span style="color: purple;">http://glosgarden.blogspot.com/</span></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Not a garden blog. There are articles which have nothing to do with creating or gardening. </div><div style="text-align: center;">There are blogs on the new born baby kittens we found and mothered. It is a blog where I voice my opinions which will always be environmentally friendly.</div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #4c1130;"><span><span style="color: #cc0000;">As always, any pictures or writings are my own. </span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #4c1130;"><span><span style="color: #cc0000;">Credit has been given to contributions not my own. </span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #4c1130;"><span><span style="color: #cc0000;">Please do not use without permission.</span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Sheepishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06867642244105284992noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670521983583754095.post-62514652340597976442012-03-19T13:58:00.004-05:002013-09-09T09:07:55.325-05:00LAMB'S QUARTERS: A HEALTHY CHOICE<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9t7sfJmDDWcMtv5mxlyARDGz-2eM2jwxcuenWTTKI0akY12AoR6RNPiBPzJQ5R2UhIPLPh_DtA33SsLTBa49brt_XoAhLqU0iKQPnJ2YgapA9FJ74a4WbBctaAfahYMKg2IsbM_ISbSg/s1600/lambs+quarters+growing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img aea="true" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9t7sfJmDDWcMtv5mxlyARDGz-2eM2jwxcuenWTTKI0akY12AoR6RNPiBPzJQ5R2UhIPLPh_DtA33SsLTBa49brt_XoAhLqU0iKQPnJ2YgapA9FJ74a4WbBctaAfahYMKg2IsbM_ISbSg/s640/lambs+quarters+growing.jpg" width="299" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">LAMB'S QUARTERS, </span><br />
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When you have an organic garden, weeds are a fact of life. You are pulling them, mulching them, or grubbing them out. Lamb's Quarters falls into all three categories with an exception, it is a desirable weed. When it is young, like on the left, the leaves are a wonderful substitute for spinach. When it has bloomed and set seeds, the seeds can be harvested and ground into flour (at least that is what I have been told, I have never tried it. I have tasted the seeds and they have a very nutty taste.)<br />
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If you have a fertile garden with plenty of nitrogen sources you will have Lamb's Quarters popping up. I consider this a free food because I don't have to till the garden for it, I don't have to plant it, I just need to wait until it is ready to harvest. Harvest time occurs within a couple of weeks of the first sign of sprouting. It grows very quickly especially in protected areas like our cold frame/green house.<br />
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The perfect size to harvest is about 6-8 inches. The growth on the left is the correct size (the larger plants). The smaller plants are also very good, but it is easier to pull the sturdier plants getting the root systems. You want to get the roots. Any root left with a little stem will re sprout and the root system gets very strong. They are a deep rooted plant.<br />
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I harvested the path on the left. I will tell you how I harvest and freeze this vegetable. If you like spinach you'll love Lamb's Quarters. BTW it is very high in calcium and vitamin K. If you have kidney problems you might not want to consume them or only having them occasionally, they contain oxalic acid. <br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">LAMB'S QUARTERS IDENTIFICATION</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDP0erwWCrR2Wh2yNSqkaGNS4KFh64Chl-T3tUl2aeXycWObk4VlMlHT6fKJ54dELIdyYmD-U8MdaAy9QGF3tX4qSjeVR9WKxYEv8mtQgKbvxGWBn-oVnXXWgirxQzKybIc-XWbc0mrys/s1600/lambs+quarters+close+up.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img aea="true" border="0" height="227" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDP0erwWCrR2Wh2yNSqkaGNS4KFh64Chl-T3tUl2aeXycWObk4VlMlHT6fKJ54dELIdyYmD-U8MdaAy9QGF3tX4qSjeVR9WKxYEv8mtQgKbvxGWBn-oVnXXWgirxQzKybIc-XWbc0mrys/s320/lambs+quarters+close+up.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
This is a close up for what you are looking for, sometimes it is a darker green. Notice the center leaves. They look like they have talcum powder dusted on them. You can also feel it when you touch it (it will rub off). <br />
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All the leaves have some of this "dust" on them but the center leaves, as they are just opening up, have an abundance of it. It is not poisonous, nor is it anything wrong. I am only pointing it out as a means of identification of the plant. I haven't noticed this on any of the other wild plants I forage for.<br />
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Another close up on a pink napkin, see the frosted look the "dust" gives the leaves. <br />
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This is the plant you are looking for when it is young. I have found it usually doesn't grow just one solitary plant. Usually a lot of seeds fall in the same spot and you have a plethora of plants.<br />
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In "Spring Flora of Missouri" by Julian A. Steyermark he spells the name the way I am using it here. Other names are Lambsquarters, goosefoot, and pigweed. His discription of the"dust" is: "Leaves and flowers covered with a white mealiness."<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">HARVESTING LAMB'S QUARTERS</span><br />
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The above pictures are what I do when I pull the Lamb's Quarters. The picture on the left is my hand grasping a bunch with the roots all the same direction. I grasp the plants just below the major bulk of the leaves (the top 2 or 3 segments). In the right picture you can see I clipped off the roots close to my hand. The clipped remains made a happy trip to the compost pile. The leaves are nestled in a plastic bag till it's filled.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">PREPARING LAMB'S </span><span style="font-size: large;">QUARTERS FOR FREEZING</span></div>
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This is the bag of Lamb's Quarters in a 13 quart stainless steel bowl. The copper thing is a biscuit cutter for size comparison. The first thing you need to do is a little difficult to picture but easy to understand. You need a very large pan or even a bucket. Fill it with water about 2/3 full. What you are going to accomplish is washing as much of the "dust" off the leaves as you can. I usually wash the leaves about 3 times (the dust on the plants leaves a film on your teeth. That is the reason I wash it off). I also wash the pan with soapy water between rinses (the sides of the pan seem to velcro the "dust"). Do not soak the leaves. Put them in the water and swish them around, like the agitator in a washing machine. Rinsing in running water will not remove the "Dust". After you have removed all the loose "Dust" drain the leaves. While they are draining put a pan to heat with adequate water to immerse the leaves. Bring the water to a roiling boil. Have another large pan handy with ice water in it. I use two, eight quart stock pots for this.</div>
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When the water comes to a boil throw in your rinsed and drained Lamb's Quarters. Stir them constantly until they turn a beautiful dark green (this takes less than a minute). Immediately fish them out throwing them into the ice water. Stir them so all leaves are exposed to the ice water, chilling them down, stopping the cooking. Drain in a colander in the sink. If they are still warmish...run cold tap water on them in the large pan and drain again. At this point I can picture the next steps.</div>
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The picture on the left is the blanched Lamb's Quarters. This is to show you the quantity you will get from the above un-blanched amount.</div>
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After blanching the Lamb's Quarters you need to remove the excess water before freezing them. </div>
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The Lamb's Quarters are placed between two linen dish towels (flour sacks or cotton pillow cases will work). Make sure what you use is lint free.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2c5f-rXiF5DzM1G_N27BHzOFpIYsKIlPnYwA1UvAS-UkMrWrRiWzf9YveUYAtC95Cqg7TnjMOofuZ5BlRnazTnwKqZgg5WOkTxdjQ333aebsRtqgEhyphenhyphenWuIuRjoWdJQbYGKTdjaTBRRhw/s1600/lambs+quarters+in+towels+ready+to+wring.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img aea="true" border="0" height="167" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2c5f-rXiF5DzM1G_N27BHzOFpIYsKIlPnYwA1UvAS-UkMrWrRiWzf9YveUYAtC95Cqg7TnjMOofuZ5BlRnazTnwKqZgg5WOkTxdjQ333aebsRtqgEhyphenhyphenWuIuRjoWdJQbYGKTdjaTBRRhw/s320/lambs+quarters+in+towels+ready+to+wring.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I roll up the "sandwich". You can see there is a blue towel underneath. It is a very thick one. You will be rolling your rolled sandwich in this. </div>
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Treat it like you would delicate lingerie. You don't want to wring the Lamb's Quarters. You want to apply slight pressure, squeeze and roll the contents. The towels are to wick the water away from the leaves. You don't want the leaves interior juices to be "wrung" from them. You want to remove the excess blancing water. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFu8hyphenhyphen7WnkPLSq09qhNC8TfRdYp0msGNAax462zHUnMAxpKFd3IO0G7vmZVC45qwULVb2dnMGK4Bd0ktFNjT7urqq1lCs0gjEk_jvuSmPeVZIIQ9unNQRG3_1MLHyhE2BZB9MX8UAMmVw/s1600/lambs+quarters+dried+and+chopped.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img aea="true" border="0" height="285" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFu8hyphenhyphen7WnkPLSq09qhNC8TfRdYp0msGNAax462zHUnMAxpKFd3IO0G7vmZVC45qwULVb2dnMGK4Bd0ktFNjT7urqq1lCs0gjEk_jvuSmPeVZIIQ9unNQRG3_1MLHyhE2BZB9MX8UAMmVw/s400/lambs+quarters+dried+and+chopped.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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This is the dried Lamb's Quarters (half of it already chopped). Next you grab your chef's knife and start chopping. I do not think a processor would work for this. I think it would make mush out of it. </div>
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Once it is chopped you can divide the amount into plastic bags. I put 8 ounces in each bag (I use the zip lock sandwich bags). After it is bagged, I flatten all the bags and layer them in a gallon freezer bag which has been labeled with the contents. (Three bags will also fit in the Zip Lock heavy duty quart size freezer bag.) </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyPFF2NHVlB_DbCXZTG6nOjE1QaECfA7PvmuPu7H-uEAb_p4I1JSS4RsAl0TG03gQ9bHHp2_C7GSrOHwG6Mo_IwSZTKROOSSAx6UrexxZGJZTPeSIcjHGgk2mLmWUXwyvInaFRuK2h9Os/s1600/lambs+quarters+chopped+ready+to+freeze.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img aea="true" border="0" height="202" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyPFF2NHVlB_DbCXZTG6nOjE1QaECfA7PvmuPu7H-uEAb_p4I1JSS4RsAl0TG03gQ9bHHp2_C7GSrOHwG6Mo_IwSZTKROOSSAx6UrexxZGJZTPeSIcjHGgk2mLmWUXwyvInaFRuK2h9Os/s320/lambs+quarters+chopped+ready+to+freeze.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
For another comparison, here is the chopped Lamb's Quarters in the original bowl. I have always been impressed with the quantity you end with compared to what you would with the equal amount of spinach. Once you have tried this you will see why I don't try to plant spinach in the spring.<br />
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I hope I have encouraged you to forage for your veggies. I have used Lamb's Quarters for any dishes I have florentined. I have creamed them. They are delicious with sauteed onions and butter. A famous person once said, "Try it you'll like it."<br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">For more blogs by me visit at:</span></div>
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<a href="http://gloriouscreations.blogspot.com/"><span style="color: #4d469c; font-size: medium;">http://gloriouscreations.blogspot.com</span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
A blog mostly about quilting, but cooking, poetry, prose and a little gardening,</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #741b47;"><span style="background-color: #ead1dc;"> <span style="color: black;">New Article on my blog: </span></span></span><div align="center" style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #cc0000;"></span><span style="background-color: #ead1dc; color: #741b47;"> </span><a href="http://gloriouscreations.blogspot.com/2013/07/a-mystery-in-making.html"><span style="background-color: #ead1dc; color: #741b47;">http://gloriouscreations.blogspot.com/2013/07/a-mystery-in-making.html</span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: black;"><span style="background-color: #ead1dc; color: #741b47;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">"A MYSTERY IN THE MAKING"</span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span><span style="color: black;"><span style="background-color: #ead1dc; color: #741b47;">A mystery quilt designed with the novice in mind</span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span><span style="color: black;"><span style="background-color: #ead1dc; color: #741b47;">First Clue to be presented October 16, 2013.</span></span></span></div>
</div>
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;">
</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://glosgarden.blogspot.com/"><span style="color: purple; font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-size: medium;">http://glosgarden.blogspot.com</span>/</span></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Not a garden blog. There are articles which have nothing to do with creating or gardening. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
There are blogs on the new born baby kittens we found and are mothering. It is a blog where I will sometimes voice my opinions which will always be environmentally friendly.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: purple;">As always, any pictures or writings are my own, </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: purple;">if not credit will be given to the contributor. </span><br />
<span style="color: purple;">Please do not use without permission</span></div>
Sheepishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06867642244105284992noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670521983583754095.post-91959987104781701092012-03-15T16:06:00.000-05:002012-03-15T16:06:12.665-05:00MY SPRING WALK<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEdXQS7TK0T2TfOTBsWmHl0XdRGTsJJM7rsel4FCmCf8Vrv9fwQDqLTAVW_mP8mpNT8uZ55j_JHIBNemFkdQ8fQk19s3R-l6ImO_h4wMZSu_p0IFqWyUUrYIUqUKLOmocIsPsgd4JYBww/s1600/walk+driveway+daffodils+3+13+12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img aea="true" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEdXQS7TK0T2TfOTBsWmHl0XdRGTsJJM7rsel4FCmCf8Vrv9fwQDqLTAVW_mP8mpNT8uZ55j_JHIBNemFkdQ8fQk19s3R-l6ImO_h4wMZSu_p0IFqWyUUrYIUqUKLOmocIsPsgd4JYBww/s320/walk+driveway+daffodils+3+13+12.jpg" width="131" /></a></div> It wasn't a long walk just down a short length of the drive. It was very early and the sun was very bright. It is said there is always a right light time. This wasn't it. The flowers reflected the sun. I hadn't ever noticed before but the flowers in general face the sun. There are some which don't but most do. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrsdGokpefexJLo2kSFABrOeoVQEtNWGu2FM4E90SLolMkf-2YxJE1OmoaUDmw1NsmsBIIjPdP7CGqqGMTIr7_SpsHEuyLdNKlaxxVNHNhyphenhyphengItWPhDHtjy98i-Wma3dp5Ue43lHd0ulXw/s1600/walk+drive+daffodils++3+13+12+bright+sun+east.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img aea="true" border="0" height="202" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrsdGokpefexJLo2kSFABrOeoVQEtNWGu2FM4E90SLolMkf-2YxJE1OmoaUDmw1NsmsBIIjPdP7CGqqGMTIr7_SpsHEuyLdNKlaxxVNHNhyphenhyphengItWPhDHtjy98i-Wma3dp5Ue43lHd0ulXw/s320/walk+drive+daffodils++3+13+12+bright+sun+east.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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Walking down the drive the iris are poking their leaves up through the leaf mold. Tree branches have tight buds with no color yet but they are filling up.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH7eDAO-7cSB3lsxRVLv6XIsddJBeSHbwpK6z4uDYZmAd8z8rI_J13KVS4RQNBDNysZK1-6luZheo093o9uuD9mXIGOLVMyKlp8LOT7DEPTXDXxQk2O81_WA6SId8foYZSlaAOFIPEuQI/s1600/walk+drive+3+13+12+spindly+tree.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img aea="true" border="0" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH7eDAO-7cSB3lsxRVLv6XIsddJBeSHbwpK6z4uDYZmAd8z8rI_J13KVS4RQNBDNysZK1-6luZheo093o9uuD9mXIGOLVMyKlp8LOT7DEPTXDXxQk2O81_WA6SId8foYZSlaAOFIPEuQI/s320/walk+drive+3+13+12+spindly+tree.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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Then low and behold on the side of the drive is the spindliest tree you ever saw. If it was Christmas it would be a Charlie Brown tree. It was so skinny, no idea what it is, but it brought a smile.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The bright sun shines reflecting the beauty of the flowers. Notice on the large flower on the left the shadow of the stamens on the petal on the right. This is probably a service berry or such but until the leaves unfurl I won't be able to identify it.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Across from the spindly tree is the remains of a tree which died. We cut it down over thirty years ago. The bark was strange and the wood was the color of the daffodils. I have never seen such a yellow wood. It hasn't rotted at all, just seems to have dehydrated. It's under the shade of some scrubby oaks and red buds. Nothing ever seemed to want to grow there.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNAu1PXHTNLkXcXjhcmMPGM4bw8zyeqrIdL1HUhekxFi589kdXrwLClynI5_I9oJAgHM9Bq7E6ktcgL3nSK0RY_HIa8LrGlQP44y_kPRpikxQJZCSbJNA1YEwU1ZDBt0w3gFdNz_0tvXc/s1600/walk+drive+3+13+12+stump+whole.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img aea="true" border="0" height="476" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNAu1PXHTNLkXcXjhcmMPGM4bw8zyeqrIdL1HUhekxFi589kdXrwLClynI5_I9oJAgHM9Bq7E6ktcgL3nSK0RY_HIa8LrGlQP44y_kPRpikxQJZCSbJNA1YEwU1ZDBt0w3gFdNz_0tvXc/s640/walk+drive+3+13+12+stump+whole.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">In the leaf litter you can see the first saw cut, before they realized they would run into the dirt if they continued. There isn't even any rot there. The designs on the tree fascinated me.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcCeu5SI-STUsmTljtyYlSUQ7946FkEq-uOPV3oHkbtF99WJMEJpfEqmF8h5b5TdxM-J32lCNf7r6dwQZpyaKwxhS6fpW7eeW1K2RwfA1Xgk0SQsmiB-mfygwDOxXw8mrsvX9jko5-J1c/s1600/walk+drive+3+13+12+stump+whole+flat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img aea="true" border="0" height="330" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcCeu5SI-STUsmTljtyYlSUQ7946FkEq-uOPV3oHkbtF99WJMEJpfEqmF8h5b5TdxM-J32lCNf7r6dwQZpyaKwxhS6fpW7eeW1K2RwfA1Xgk0SQsmiB-mfygwDOxXw8mrsvX9jko5-J1c/s400/walk+drive+3+13+12+stump+whole+flat.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBlYzbUrSgPS5sLXKk2ycR_vz7lvharmmkG72ltFe9KlGCND3XntwpW_fwbMn7GBaYwbG5-ZtUi4kAl-nt_1DyAGVi8-QEo44AmzPrGBAtRIy66JH9QKpYaeB0q37SYn37tyH8BeWCPkY/s1600/walk+drive+3+13+12+stump+section.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img aea="true" border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBlYzbUrSgPS5sLXKk2ycR_vz7lvharmmkG72ltFe9KlGCND3XntwpW_fwbMn7GBaYwbG5-ZtUi4kAl-nt_1DyAGVi8-QEo44AmzPrGBAtRIy66JH9QKpYaeB0q37SYn37tyH8BeWCPkY/s400/walk+drive+3+13+12+stump+section.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhehgN1p-jAA0vBpiZo2tAON3iRsyhfgcJ929CCvicvb7Y2lxQbb_GXwHrBTRfgBN2c12EvNBdqzxPML7MtzZJ9iMLkjJr9DmPwP1Q5P-XJbLFwnT9veCIGL5X7L9jkKpc6abMj5HwXocg/s1600/walk+drive+3+13+12+stump+section+pie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img aea="true" border="0" height="352" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhehgN1p-jAA0vBpiZo2tAON3iRsyhfgcJ929CCvicvb7Y2lxQbb_GXwHrBTRfgBN2c12EvNBdqzxPML7MtzZJ9iMLkjJr9DmPwP1Q5P-XJbLFwnT9veCIGL5X7L9jkKpc6abMj5HwXocg/s400/walk+drive+3+13+12+stump+section+pie.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Thank you for talking this short walk with me. It was a pleasant break from transplanting seedlings (today I put lettuce into larger pots). </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">For more blogs by me visit at:</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://gloriouscreations.blogspot.com/"><span style="color: #4d469c; font-size: large;">http://gloriouscreations.blogspot.com</span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">A blog mostly about quilting, but cooking, poetry, prose and a little gardening,</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
<a href="http://glosgarden.blogspot.com/"><span style="color: purple; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: large;">http://glosgarden.blogspot.com</span>/</span></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Not a garden blog. There are articles which have nothing to do with creating or gardening. </div><div style="text-align: center;">There are blogs on the new born baby kittens we found and are mothering. It is a blog where I will sometimes voice my opinions which will always be environmentally friendly.</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #4c1130;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">As always, any pictures or writings are my own, if not credit will be given to the contributor. </span><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Please do not use without permission</span></span></div>Sheepishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06867642244105284992noreply@blogger.com0