Multiple Garden Plantings

How could you not know?

 As far back as I can remember, my parents and grandparents planted in the spring. I don't remember being taught anything else but spring planting and the sayings: "Peas must be on Good Friday" "Corn should be knee high by the 4th of July", "Potatoes should be planted when the dandelions bloom", etc. I never remember consecutive plantings or planting for fall crops. The garden went in and the plants produced until they didn't. Everything had a time frame - we preserved during those frames, and when the plants were spent, they were pulled and composed and the bare area was covered with manure. 

I was so taken by the idea of pulling crops and planting something in their place and I was mesmerized with the idea of fall plantings. I couldn't believe how many plants could be started in summer for a second crop - and that the second harvest (fall harvest) could be even better because of the autumn's cooler weather! Certain plants stop producing and will bolt in the heat, but plant them in the summer, and they do wonderfully until frost (or beyond)!

I just purchased a couple types of summer squash to plant for fall harvest, since I didn't get my spring plants in. There's also enough time for basil, parsley, cilantro, and dill for the herbs that will be welcomed with fall canning. Many times the dill is already spent when pickling time comes around and this second batch is perfect for using fresh dill! 

My gardening is different than it used to be. I can have a smaller garden that produces the same or a lot more than the large one I used to have. I don't need a big garden with the kids gone, but I do love the fresh produce. Now all I need to discover is a tried and true method for getting rid of the groundhogs!

Who said woodchucks don't like cherry tomatoes?