This gardening season has definitely been better than last year. The weather is not perfect, it has been very hot, but not so hot plants wilted, and having more rain than last year certainly helps us some.

I have to say most of the gardeners worked very good in their garden beds or raised beds. That includes new gardeners as well. One young lady was proud to be the first person to get a few green beans from her garden. When her lettuce grew big enough to eat she picked some of the lettuce and made a sandwich. She is determined to be good at gardening and I think she will. She attends all the workshops, asks questions, and is very interested in gardening.

One item this year has really surprised everyone: half-runner beans did not do very well at all, but bush and pole beans did. Potatoes have also done very well, as have other crops. We really cannot complain about the gardens. Most of them have done well, and there has been an awful lot of canning, freezing, drying, and sharing with neighbors, the elderly, and families. Not to mention storing the potatoes in a dark, cool, dry, well ventilated area. When I was growing up, that meant in a basket in a corner of the root cellar. And soon, sweet potatoes will be joining regular potatoes to take families through the winter.

Here’s a potato and green beans recipe that is a favorite in this area:

3-4 slices thick cut bacon, cooked until crispy (optional)

1 lb green beans

1 onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

½ lb potatoes, cubed

2c ham bullion (like Better Than Broth)

 

Add everything but the potatoes, and cook for 20 minutes.

Add the potatoes and cook for an additional 12 minutes.