Plant-based/Vegetarian Meal planning
Three years ago, I attended a conference in San Diego on Plant-based nutrition for physicians and nurses which assisted me in making major changes in my life. I had tried being vegetarian several times in the past but would become frustrated and give it up. The previous time, I lived in Hawaii in a local family situation. Anytime that I went to family gatherings or even out to eat with family or friends, there was very little that I could eat. I remember living on either French fries or plain… Read more
August Tasks
In Northern California, our growing season continues throughout the end of October, often lingering into November. In the California Central Valley some days, it is too hot to set out new plants this month, but on the coast, with the early morning fog, the weather is more temperate, you can plant most of the year. It is essential to keep the watering throughout this month with consistency. If the temperature is over 95 degrees, then early morning water is vital. Mulching the plants is also essential. No matter where you… Read more
Working in the Heat
The gardener has many problems: bugs, keeping the plants alive, weather, harvesting. In this blog, I want to discuss tips on how to cope with the hot summers in Northern California while gardening. According to the CDC, approximately 600 deaths a year are related across the nation to heat or heat-related conditions. Coping with the temperature takes a little planning and using techniques that protect you while gardening. What are some of the symptoms of heat-related problems and how to deal with them? Sunburns and Rashes (stages) Symptoms: Redness and… Read more
Zucchini – The Versatile Squash
This year, based on my experience, I planted one zucchini plant, (also, one yellow squash and one eggplant). As predicted, I have more than enough for my needs (and part of Sacramento). They are prolific and make excellent additions to your meals. Nutritious values include being a supplier of vitamin C, Iron, Vitamin B-6, and calcium. My zucchinis have been sautéed, roasted, stewed, baked, and eaten raw. Were you aware that you could slice them thin and put them on sandwiches or rolled in breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper, add Baker’s… Read more
Zucchini Recipes – Second Edition
The Ever-Bearing Zucchini See the source image The recipes on this blog are plant-based. Hopefully, they will provide different ways to add plant-based foods for your family dinners. Zucchini’s: What can you do with them? Many years ago, my grandmother always planted zucchini, but as she said: They are like relatives, a few are good, too many will drive you crazy. I am sharing some of the recipes that we used to give you ideas on how to take care of your ever abundance harvest. Zucchini pickles: (small batch) Prepare… Read more
The World of Bee Balm and Orange Mint
This morning was a time for starting the end of summer cleanup and preparation for the fall garden. There have been so many days that were over 95 degrees this year; the garden was looking a little tired. I trimmed back the Bee Balm last weekend, and I see new shoots and leaves already starting. They are so pretty, and the bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds love them. Bee Balm is a member of the mint family and spreads through rhizomes (underground stems) and can be very prolific. When the flowers… Read more
Garden Tasks for September
If you are like me, you are wondering how did September get here so quick. There has been so much work in the garden this year. I am looking forward to the physical work winding down. But not this month. The weather should be cooling down a little, and the leaves will start turning colors towards the end of the month. However, now It is time to look at the plants we have in place, probably start the clean up for the winter garden. Take a cup of tea, and… Read more
Why I love Gardening in Raised Beds:
There are a lot of gardeners in Sacramento that are starting gardens. They are a source of rich, natural foods to supplement your diet and provide a small amount towards becoming more independent or sustainable. There are many reasons I chose raised beds for my garden even though I have plenty of room for a garden. The raised beds allow the soil to heat up faster in the spring, so you can plant your plants earlier than a regular garden with tilled soil. You can control the soil better with… Read more
Garden Tasks 2022
February Time to Think About the 2022 Garden Winter sneaked upon us here in the California Valley. I said sneaked because we have not had any cold weather but for a few nights of it getting down to the high 30’s. In this post, I will be discussing my personal garden goals and getting your garden ready for prime garden time, which is just around the corner. 2022 Garden Goals To Be more organized and develop a whole garden plan before planting. The chilly winds make it a perfect time… Read more
March Garden
It has been a bit chilly this last two weeks following a beautiful spring weather. Many people’s thoughts turn towards their gardens. This year I see a lot of new gardeners as the world continues to increase in uncertainties. It is essential to our health to know where our food is coming from and know how our food is grown. As I discussed in the previous post, It is time to start planning if you already have not begun and plant the early spring crops. Hopefully, you have created your… Read more
Backyard Chickens
With the unstable economy and the problems of climate change, it is essential to look at our ability to sustain ourselves in case of a collapse. Families are downsizing their homes, using older automobiles, and growing gardens in their backyards to supplement the groceries they have to buy. One of the most natural sources of protein is eggs. Yes, I am plant-based, but I raise and eat eggs for the B-complex vitamins and protein sources. Why am I supporting chickens? Over the last 20 years, I have maintained small flocks… Read more