Moist soil conditions and rampant weeds make for a likely time to mulch the garden. Hay, grass clippings and wood chips are all likely options, but my current preference for certain crop — like strawberries — is straw, which spreads evenly and is a remarkable soil conditioner without hay’s seed problem. (ANN BENNETT PHOTO)
Moist soil conditions and rampant weeds make for a likely time to mulch the garden. Hay, grass clippings and wood chips are all likely options, but my current preference for certain crop — like strawberries — is straw, which spreads evenly and is a remarkable soil conditioner without hay’s seed problem. (ANN BENNETT PHOTO)
Independence Day capped a week of classic early July weather, with a string of steamy 80 degree days, and nighttime temperatures falling back into the 50s. While the light still lingers until after nine o’clock, June and the solstice are behind us, and the summer season out ahead. The challenge lies in holding onto the days and weeks of July and August, as they rush towards Labor Day.
July 4th is a benchmark of the gardening season here in the mountains of New Hampshire. In a successful year, the hope is for corn knee high by Independence Day, and that strawberries, peas and new potatoes will be part of the menu. So yes, the strawberries and snow peas are in, along with the first summer squash, kale and greens of all sorts. Early red potatoes are in full blossom, and the crop has thrived with consistent moisture. Garlic scapes have come and gone, cut and processed into pesto.
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