You Could Grow More Than You Think!

    Growing things in the garden can be beneficial to your health in more ways than one. Not only is the exercise and fresh air helpful, but the food you produce can be very nutritious and delicious.
   We got to observe two examples of this Thanksgiving. One such example was in Umatilla where local gardener Eli Reed grew Seminole pumpkins in his yard and then turned them into pumpkin pies for his family's holiday dinner. Beautiful pies full of locally sourced goodness and nutrition.
   Another example was at our friend Sue's house in Tallahassee, where not only she, but her mother are able to grow fresh citrus. Yes, you heard me right. Cold-tolerant citrus trees, dripping with loads of juicy fruit. Sue has a two-story calamondin in her yard which is frost tolerant. Her mother brought over bags of juicy sweet tangerines which Sue then made into fresh juice for breakfast. Delicious juice, no sugar needs to enjoy a glass.
   This brings me back to Eli's garden philosophy, which he shared with us when we met him. He says to try it all. You may be able to grow things that someone else can't based on your microclimate. He has 35 species of bananas in a place that seems too cold for it. Sue is growing citrus in her backyard in Tallahassee. What we have learned is that go ahead and try it, if you succeed you get pie and orange juice. Nothing, nothing gained.
   Please keep sending me your garden photos and ideas. We love hearing from you. Grow what you can, and share with friends who are getting started. Please send us pictures of your garden, critters, blooming plants, vegetables, fruits, and garden projects to hollynewby1@aol.com or mail them to P.O. Box 1099, Umatilla, FL 32784. We love to share the fun in the garden with others. Keep growing…