Steel your vulnerable heart if getting into the vegetable bed
Vegetable gardeners know that this time of year brings much promise and hope. The snow melts away to reveal a new, fresh patch of earth, endless with promise. There isn’t much in terms of reward except the chives but one snip and we are swept away in the possibilities. Like in the early stages of a romantic relationship, we set to beautifying the beds, removing the leaves and mulch worn like a winter mask, exfoliate with rakes and moisturize with compost. Pacts are made, bargains are struck. There is resolve that this season will be different and it won’t end in heartbreak.
Grass stained knees, blistered hands and sore backs are a small price to pay for the yielding affection of the vegetable patch. The promise of peas eaten right off the vine before ever making it to the kitchen, fresh lettuce cut moments before going into the salad bowl. A vow has been made.
But then there are frost warnings and worry, but it turns out to be for not because the squirrels dig up the dried peas before they have a chance to germinate and the earwigs are already en route to the lettuce patch even though the seeds are still in the package dubiously waiting until is safe. It’s never safe.
It’s the same story every year. Try different ways of growing cucumbers but nothing happens until the family packs off on a brief mid summer vacation and comes home to bloated rusty coloured things that look like they may have been cucumbers for a moment or two. And peppers? Still too painful to talk about.
Zucchini is the rebound vegetable. It is cool under the shade of its broad leaves and beautiful flowers. It cooperates for the most part and is easy to be around for a time. Then all of its time-sensitive produce is ready at once not caring that its 30C and the last place you want to be is in the kitchen making relish. Like being stuck in an argument that is going nowhere, you go 12 rounds, washing jars until your hands are raw. Vinegar in a fresh cut from the grater.
A sweet Valentine’s from the garden, the tomatoes keep up the romance. There is nothing better than a vine ripened tomato, still warm from the sun. Like a mistress’ afternoon visit, you know the hornworm is lurking beneath the leaves but it is easier to deny her existence than to follow a neighbour’s advice: pop their heads off.
The garden takes more than it gives and by September the weeds have taken over completely and thoughts turn to next year when, things will be better.
In this special edition of The Creemore Echo we are celebrating a less cynical view of life at home and in the garden.
Sara and Georgi will be at the Farmers’ Market this Saturday as The Echo kicks off its subscription drive. Echo staff will be at the market Saturdays until June 11. Like last year, we have three options; a subscriber ($49), a booster ($75) and a champion ($100 or more). We thank all our readers for their ongoing support and constant encouragement.
