One of my students, Craig Dally, sent me this lovely photo of his garden. He tells me that all of the plants in the picture (except for the Petunias) were grown from seeds and plants he got from one of my workshops. Here are his thoughts on his beautiful garden:
Dear Cynthia,
After attending your Summer gardening class in March,
I went home armed with new knowledge and two flats sown with all sorts
of summer vegetables seeds: arugula, kale, lettuces, sunflowers,
cucumbers, nasturtiums, pole beans and eight tomato seedlings. After
several weeks of caring for my new "kids", I decided to plant my summer
garden April 19th. My family thought I was way over the top. Now,
they've changed their tune. They hawk over the plants (just like me)
looking for any pests or disease. They count the days till the next
compost tea (worm pee) and remind me to apply the Serenade on alternate
weeks. We all marvel at the natural health the plants enjoy and are
eagerly anticipating the first ripe love apple.
I didn't reinvent the wheel, I listened to an experienced pro and took the advice you gave to heart. It works. You'll be seeing me at a Master's Tomato class soon. Thanks for a life lesson well worth learning: gardening is good for your heart and soul and pulling a family together in a way I never imagined.
You're the best,
Craig D.
Thanks for the feedback Cynthia. I hope to attend the Garden Bed Design and construction workshop (and others) next spring. However I am hoping to build a out my garden bed this fall and prepare the soil for spring. Is there a book you recommend for design, placement, etc. Thanks.
Posted by: Carmen Mo | July 29, 2009 at 10:47 AM
Carmen: Craig took my Garden Bed Design & Construction workshop, along with my Summer Vegetable Gardening class. I will be giving more of those classes next spring. Check my "Classes & Events" page for that info. You can also get on my email newsletter subscription service in order to receive notices of when I give additional classes.
Posted by: Love Apple Farm | July 19, 2009 at 12:06 AM
I echo everyone's comments about how beautiful your garden looks. I'm sure it is tasty too!
Posted by: Carmen Mo | July 18, 2009 at 10:52 PM
Craig, I'd love to see the layout of your garden if you can provide. How did you decide on triagle shaped planters? How high are the planters, and how did you decide on the their height? I'm trying to plan a veg garden and trying to determine if I should use raised beds or stay at ground level. I also am trying to figure out the best placement for my planting beds. Please share what you can about your planning, decisions and implementation. Thank you!
Posted by: Carmen Mo | July 18, 2009 at 10:50 PM
I love the shape of this garden. There is something so serene about it. I want to try this. Do you know how much space was used?
Posted by: Planet Gift Baskets | July 15, 2009 at 11:00 AM
My gosh, that is one gorgeous garden. You are obviously a fantastic teacher who is able to share her green thumb with others.
Posted by: Carolyn Jung | July 07, 2009 at 05:31 PM