National Cucumber Day. Cucumber and Watermelon Salads

Cucumbers are a popular vegetable known for their refreshing taste and crunchy texture. They belong to the Cucurbitaceae family, which includes other plants like melons, squash, and pumpkins.

Here are some key facts about cucumbers:

1. Varieties: There are three main cucumber types: slicing, seedless, and pickling. Slicing cucumbers are typically larger with thicker skin, while pickling cucumbers are smaller and have thinner skin, making them ideal for pickling.

2. Nutritional Value: Cucumbers are low in calories and rich in water content, making them a hydrating vegetable. They also contain essential vitamins and minerals such as vitamin K, potassium, and manganese. The skin of the cucumber contains most of the nutrients, so consuming it unpeeled is beneficial.

   
   
   

3. Health Benefits: Cucumbers offer several health benefits. They are known for their hydrating properties and can help maintain proper hydration, promoting healthy skin. Cucumbers also contain antioxidants that help fight inflammation and may contribute to overall heart health. Additionally, their high water and fiber content can aid in digestion.

4. Culinary Uses: Cucumbers are versatile and can be used in a variety of culinary preparations. They are commonly used in salads, sandwiches, and wraps to add crunch and freshness. Cucumbers can also be juiced, pickled, or used to make refreshing summer drinks, such as cucumber-infused water or cucumber lemonade.

5. Growing Conditions: Cucumbers thrive in warm climates and require plenty of sunlight. They can be grown in gardens or containers with adequate support for their vine-like growth. Cucumbers are a popular choice for home gardening due to their relatively easy cultivation.

6. Harvesting: Cucumbers are typically harvested when they are firm, crisp, and have reached their desired size. It's important to regularly harvest cucumbers to encourage continued fruit production. Overripe cucumbers can become bitter and less enjoyable to eat.

7. Storage: Cucumbers are best stored in the refrigerator to maintain their crispness and freshness. If not consumed immediately, they can be wrapped in a plastic bag or stored in an airtight container to prevent moisture loss.

From Our Garden

Cucumber and Watermelon Salads

Learn About Composting Day

Composting Basics

Why Should You Compost?

Composting not only benefits the environment by breaking down organic materials and transforming them into rich, fertilizing soil… composting is also:

• When you invest a little time learning to compost, it’s all yours, for free.
• Fun for the children. 
• Composting reduces household trash. 
• It’s hard to mess up.

Basic Supplies Needed for Composting

You’ll need a pail for the kitchen to collect scraps, a composting bin (if you’re using one), or a spot in the yard for a pile.

Worm Composter

Some people choose to use earthworms to help speed up the composting process in a worm composting bin. This is done by adding kitchen scraps, dried leaves, etc., and allowing the worms to digest the organic material as it passes through their bodies while they move around.

If you have a compost pile in the yard, earthworms will usually find their way to it naturally.

Composting Tumbler

A composting tumbler is a handy bin with a handle that you can turn by cranking the handle around. These are helpful for people with limited space, and they tend not to smell or attract insects.

How to Start Composting

1. Pick a spot for your pail. Tell your family the plan. 
2. Pick a spot for your pile or composting bin. You want it to be close enough to the house. 

What to Compost

Kitchen waste. Mainly produce trimmings 
Coffee grounds
Teabags
Grass clippings and Dead leaves
Straw
Sawdust
Garden waste

Do Not Compost the following:
Meat or bones
Leftovers that are not plant-based
Branches or stalks 
Garden waste treated with pesticides or chemical fertilizer
Weeds and Diseased plant material

Method for Composting

1. Start collecting compostable material and add it to your pile.
2. Empty your pail into the pile (or bin) daily. It’s the perfect chore for children.
3. Turn your compost pile. Every month or so, grab your pitchfork or a shovel and mix your pile up a bit. Helps speed up the decomposition process and keeps away any unwanted pests. 
4. When you don’t see any more recognizable scraps, the compost is ready to be used.
5. Harvest your finished compost from the bottom of your pile (or bin) once or twice a year. Whatever is not ready put it back into the pile to continue breaking down.
6. Spread finished compost on the garden beds or containers. 

Note: Do not bring fresh compost into the house since it may contain outside critters.

Potential Problems with Composting

• Smell. If your pile starts to stink, just give it a quick turn and add some grass clippings or leaves if available.
• Insects. Wash out the kitchen pail about every other day.
• Animals. Use an animal-resistant bin or turn your pile more regularly.

How Long Does it Take to Compost?

Different organic materials take different lengths of time to transform into compost. Food scraps are quicker than twigs or sticks. Paper from coffee filters or tea bags takes longer than organic materials. The bottom of the pile or bin will transform first, so it is important to turn the pile monthly.

Composting as an accompaniment to gardening is a worthwhile routine and fun for the whole family.

The Herb Garden: From Soil to Plate

The Herb Garden: From Soil to Plate

Start your herb garden today and watch the magic unfold.

There’s something truly special about growing your own herbs. It’s more than just having fresh basil for your pasta or mint for your tea—an herb garden is an invitation to slow down, savor, and connect with your food in a hands-on, meaningful way.

Whether you have a spacious backyard or just a sunny windowsill, starting an herb garden is easy, rewarding, and surprisingly transformative. 

Why Grow Your Own Herbs?

Freshness: Nothing beats the vibrant flavor of herbs picked just minutes before using them.

Cost-Effective: A small investment in seeds or starter plants saves money in the long run compared to buying bundles at the store.

Sustainability: Growing your own reduces packaging waste and the carbon footprint tied to shipping fresh herbs to supermarkets.

Connection to Nature: Tending to plants encourages mindfulness, patience, and a deeper appreciation for the food you eat.

Getting Started: The Basics

Choose Your Herbs Wisely:

Start with easy growers like basil, parsley, mint, oregano, rosemary, and thyme. They’re hardy, versatile, and perfect for beginners.

Pick the Right Spot:

Herbs love sunshine. Aim for a place that gets at least 6 hours of sunlight per day—whether it’s a garden bed, patio container, or kitchen windowsill.

Soil and Water:

Well-draining soil is key. Herbs don’t like soggy roots. Water consistently but don’t overdo it; most herbs prefer to dry out slightly between waterings.

Harvesting Tips:

Regular harvesting encourages plants to grow fuller. Pinch off the tops of herbs like basil to prevent them from flowering too soon.

 

From Soil to Plate: The Delicious Payoff

• Fresh herbs can elevate every meal:
• Toss chopped parsley and mint into grain salads for a fresh, green flavor.
• Add a sprig of rosemary to roasted vegetables or chicken.
• Blend cilantro into homemade salsas or pestos.
• Garnish desserts and cocktails with bright, aromatic mint leaves.
• Flavor simple dishes like eggs, rice, and pasta with a handful of just-picked basil or chives.

 

Plant Today, Savor Tomorrow

There’s magic in watching something you planted with your own hands flourish into something you can taste, smell, and enjoy. Start your herb garden today—small or large—and you’ll see how easily a little bit of green can turn into a whole lot of joy.

 

Happy planting! 

My Sunflower's Journey

My First Sunflower

This year, my garden witnessed a little miracle—my very first sunflower bloomed. 

For years, I had tried and failed to grow sunflowers. Each season brought hope, effort, and no sunflower -  but I never gave up. My persistence was rewarded this year with a flower that feels nothing short of magical.

The sunflower stands tall and proud in my garden, its delicate yellow petals radiating against the sun. At its center lies the intricate disc florets—a stunning spiral of tiny flowers holding male and female reproductive organs. These florets will mature into seeds and fruit, completing the sunflower’s life cycle.

One of the most captivating moments was watching the bees dance around the sunflower, drawn to its abundant pollen and nectar. These hardworking pollinators are vital in transferring pollen from one flower to another to ensure the sunflower produces seeds. The synergy between the sunflower and the bees is a beautiful reminder of nature’s interconnectedness and harmony.

This sunflower is more than just a plant; it symbolizes resilience and hope. It taught me that the most extraordinary beauty sometimes comes from the patience to keep trying, even when success feels out of reach.

Every time I look at its vibrant petals and elegant grace, I’m reminded of the magic that perseverance can bring. 

If you’ve ever doubted your ability to grow or achieve something, let this sunflower be your reminder: don’t give up. The bloom is worth the wait.

September 5, National Cheese Pizza Day Garden Pizza with Mozzarella, Asparagus, Peppers, Tomatoes, Mixed Greens

Yields: 2 Servings

Serving Size: 1/2 pizza

Ingredients

1 Pizza Crust, 7-inch

8 Asparagus

2 Tbsp Red Onions

6 Grape Tomatoes

1 sl Squash

1/3 Red Pepper

1/4 cup Mixed Greens

1/3 cup Part-Skim Mozzarella, shredded

Nutrition Information

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National Pizza Day - Garden Pizza

Yields: 2 Servings

Serving Size: 1/2 pizza

Ingredients

1 Pizza Crust, 7-inch

8 Asparagus

2 Tbsp Red Onions

6 Grape Tomatoes

1 sl Squash

1/3 Red Pepper

1/4 cup Mixed Greens

1/3 cup Part-Skim Mozzarella, shredded

Nutrition Information

Origins of Seed Swapping

 

National Seed Swap Day is a special event for gardening enthusiasts, celebrated on the last Saturday of January each year. This day is dedicated to the practice of seed swapping, which is both an ancient tradition and a practical way to share and preserve diverse plant species. Here's an overview of its history and traditions:

History

Origins of Seed Swapping: The practice of exchanging seeds predates recorded history and is rooted in agricultural communities worldwide. Traditionally, farmers and gardeners would swap seeds to diversify their crops, share local varieties, and preserve heirloom species.


Modern Revival: In recent decades, there's been a resurgence in seed swapping, partly as a response to the increasing commercialization and patenting of seeds by large corporations. This modern movement emphasizes the importance of biodiversity, community, and sustainable gardening practices.


Establishment of National Seed Swap Day: National Seed Swap Day was first organized in 2006 by Washington Gardener Magazine in Washington, D.C. The idea was to create a day where gardeners could come together to exchange seeds and stories, fostering a sense of community and sharing.
Traditions and Practices

Seed Swap Events: Of course, the core tradition of National Seed Swap Day is the seed swap itself. These events can be small, local gatherings or larger, organized events. Gardeners of all levels of experience come together to exchange seeds they've saved from their own gardens.


Education and Learning: Many seed swap events also include educational components, such as workshops or talks on topics like seed-saving techniques, gardening tips, and preserving plant diversity.


Community Building: These events often serve as a meeting point for local gardening communities, encouraging networking, sharing of experiences, and building relationships among gardeners.


Promotion of Biodiversity: Seed swaps play a crucial role in promoting and preserving biodiversity. They allow rare, heirloom, or local varieties of plants to be shared and propagated, which might otherwise be lost.


Sustainability Focus: The event also emphasizes sustainable gardening practices. By exchanging seeds, gardeners reduce dependence on commercially purchased seeds, many of which are treated with chemicals or genetically modified.

Modern Relevance

In today's context, National Seed Swap Day has taken on additional significance. It's not just a day for gardeners to come together; it's a statement about the importance of preserving plant diversity, practicing sustainable gardening, and fostering community resilience. The day aligns with broader environmental and sustainability movements, highlighting the importance of maintaining our connection with nature and our role in preserving it.

This celebration resonates with people worldwide, extending beyond the United States, as the concept of seed swapping is universal in the gardening community.

Reference.

Seeds and Plants, USDA

May 2011 Wellness News

Current News, Resources and Events in Nutrition, Food, Health, Environment, Safety and Disability Rights. Encourages awareness and inspires ideas for Journalists, Educators, Consumers and Health Professionals.

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April Wellness News

April 2010 Current News and Resources in Nutrition, Food, Health, Recalls/Safety and Disability Rights. Encourages awareness and inspires ideas for Journalists, Educators, Consumers and Health Professionals.


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