Exotic Edibles
This is a gardening system which requires “no digging…no tilling…and no weeding” and I’m not kidding! This organic layering method allows you to install a garden without having to do any of the above.
You first lay down a thick layer of wet newspapers or box cardboard to kill the sod or last year’s leftover crops. Next layer in a series of mulches 18 to 24 inches deep. A large variety of mulches can be used such as manure, compost, hay, leaves, peat moss, seaweed, etc. (pretty much whatever is available).
Close planting and generous mulching reduces the need for watering and cuts down on weeds. This method can be used for vegetable gardens, herb gardens, growing berries, flower gardens and even foundation plantings.
For detailed directions on growing individual varieties, you can purchase the book, Lasagna Gardening by Patricia Lanza from Pinetree Gardens at www.superseeds.com .
Rouge d’Etampes Pumpkin – “Cucurbita pepo” Origin: France We just got done this morning pulling the last of these pumpkins out of our garden…this year was a bumper crop! Also
Loquat – Eriobotrya japonica Origin: China Last month I gave a plant talk at the Erie Cage Bird Association. Afterwards, the club held a raffle of plants which I had
Thai Hot Peppers aka “Thai Dragons” – Capsicum frutescens Origin: Asia Hot peppers have gained in popularity over the past few years, due in part to the fact that even