August 5th, 2008
I knew someone–besides me–was eating my tomatoes. I blamed it on woodchucks, squirrels, even skunks. But now I know the truth, because I caught him red-handed.
A short while ago I was sitting on the garden bench and saw one of the tomato plants swaying to and fro. At the bottom, I could see movement of some beastie attacking the low-handing fruit. On close inspection, I saw this Eastern Box Turtle standing on his two hind legs munching away. Oh, he looks timid now. But he is a tomato eating beast!
To be fair, I have encountered him in the garden before–under flowers and leaves. But I had never put two and two together. You can bet he has a big move coming to a new home far, far up the driveway. I don’t take kindly to tomato thieves.
He should pass that along to his friends before I get back out there.
Now, if he were eating my squash…
Posted In: Nature and Wildlife
Tags: beasts, Eastern box turtle, Flowers, garden, tomatoes, Wildlife
July 31st, 2008
This week is all about cucumbers. How about this Armenian Yardlong Cucumber? Yes, it is supposed to be this light yellow, almost white color. And this one is well on its way to being a yard long.
Unfortunately, my first Armenian Yardlong Cucumber was bitter.
Here’s a great way to enjoy the flavor of your garden fresh cucumbers–Asian Cucumber Salad. My favorite!
Ingredients
3 medium cucumbers, peeled, de-seeded, sliced lengthwise and in thin slices 1 tablespoon kosher salt 3 tablespoons rice wine vinegar 3 tablespoons toasted sesame oil 1/2 teaspoon sugar 1/4 teaspoon hot red pepper flakes 1 1/2 tablespoons sesame seeds, toasted in a skillet until golden brown
Toss the cucumbers with the kosher salt and place in a colander in the sink. Place an ice-filled bag on the cucumbers to drain for 45 minutes to an hour. Whisk all the remaining ingredients, except the sesame seeds, until blended and the sugar is dissolved. Rinse the cucumbers and dry with paper towels. Toss the cucumbers and dressing. Top with sesame seeds and serve immediately.
Posted In: Food and Recipes, Gardening
Tags: cucumber salad, cucumbers, garden, recipe, Vegetables
Hi! I'm Robin Ripley author of Wisdom for Home Preservers, published by Taunton Press. I am also co-author of Grocery Gardening. Bumblebee is about my life in rural Maryland, my garden and my love of food, my little dogs and pet chickens. You can follow me on Twitter, Pinterest and Facebook. Thank you for visiting!
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