THE BENEFITS OF HOMEGROWN!

As for homegrown vs store-bought, there is no comparison. Our homegrown vegetables are more flavorful, free of chemicals or pesticides, have much lower risks of contamination, and we eat foods that are in season (and get creative with recipes and storage). When the vegetables are prepared just hours after they have been pulled out of the ground, the nutrient values are at their peak and they TASTE SO GOOD! We eat a lot of vegetables and rarely do we need have an over abundance that we can't utilize. But then, we have great neighbors that are happy to oblige. Freezing and canning can also extend the life of your bounty well in to the Winter months. 

Outdoor gardening can provide many health benefits:

• Spending time in the outdoors can reduce stress, improve mood
• Increase strength and range of motion
• Sunshine and Vitamin D
• Food security--direct access to healthy harvests that you can prepare for your family. 
• Reduces food waste--whether I make homemade soup stock or drop scraps into the compost bin--nothing goes to waste. 
• A sense of accomplishment with growing your own food!

If you don't have the time or space to grow your own garden, seek out local growers that use sustainable gardening practices, visit and participate in community gardens, or head to the weekly public markets during the growing season. 
 

Our zucchini crop is abundant this year and no surprise; zucchini appears in just about every recipe that we prepare these--it is the secret ingredient:) We tried a new variety this year, Caserta (popular in Italy). It has light and green stripes, a firm flesh and is great with any preparation.

Cucumbers have also been plentiful, with tomato, cucumber and fresh dill salads on the menu regularly. 

MID SUMMER UPDATE!

It's mid July in the Inland NW with warmer temperatures and the garden is in full swing. Tomatoes, Eggplant, Cantaloupes, Watermelons, Butternut Squash, Zucchinis and Cucumbers are all making substantial headway. 

We grow several different varieties of tomatoes; San Marzano, Roma, Purple Cherokee, and Cherry. Cherry tomatoes are a breeze to pick and a great addition to your favorite salad. The San Marzano's and Roma's are excellent for sauces such as marinara and enchilada, and the heirloom Purple Cherokee slicers are a star-studded lineup to your favorite sandwich. 

How does your garden grow?

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