GYG-046 – Serious or Hobby Gardening? Tums for Tomatoes, and Spicy Watermelon Salad Recipe

Summary: There has been a lot of discussion lately, and some suing that gardening with Raised beds or prepared soil is too easy and we need to think twice about doing it this way. While I respect their opinion, I think it's more a factor of what the main goal you are after in your gardening. For me - its growing as much food as I can for my family so I will not be relying on the stores or commercial food system. With retirement in sight, I need to cut as many costs as possible, and this is just one way. Decide what your main purpose in growing food is, and that should tell you what type of gardener you are. Nothing wrong with Hobby or existence gardening. It's just good to know which you are. Canning Resources - Some Must Have Books How To Grow & Preserve Your Own Food from Mother Earth News This i an excellent resource, not only for canning, but also for gardening g, homesteading and all around great tips for growing and preserving home grown food. This is best purchased locally as the website still is showing the 2010 version. A real keeper for me. One of the main reasons to be sure and pick up the 2011 copy is the introduction to Harvey Ussery who grows most of his own food on 2 1/2 acres in Northern Virginia. You can Find his Web Site at The ModernHomestead.us Canning Magazine from Better Homes and Gardens From www.underwoodgardens.com we learn of how Tums and Molasses can help your tomatoes this year. Underwood Gardens puts out a free newsletter loaded with tips and information. Go over there and sign up so you won't miss any new tips they send out. Watermelon Change up Recipe Spicy Watermelon Berry Salad created by Chef Season Stepp Juice and zest of 1 lime 1-2 jalapenos, ribs and seeds removed; minced 2 teaspoons chili powder 1/2 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper 3 tablespoons fresh mint leaves, chiffonade 3 tablespoons fresh cilantro leaves, minced 1/3 cup olive oil 5 cups watermelon cubes 3 cups strawberries, hulls removed and sliced* 1 cup blueberries 1/4 red onion, peeled and thinly sliced 1/2 cup queso fresco or cotija cheese, crumbled Kosher salt to taste In a large mixing bowl, whisk together lime juice and zest, jalapeno, chili powder, cayenne, mint, and cilantro. While still whisking, slowly drizzle in olive oil. Add watermelon, strawberries, blueberries, red onion, and queso fresco or cotija cheese. Gently toss together and season to taste with kosher salt. * If when making this salad strawberries are not in season, try substituting ripe cherry tomatoes.