Back to the Garden
By James Daw
Late summer is a great time to tackle necessary tasks and enjoy the fruits of your spring and summer labors. Here are some highlights from this season.
Garden Memories
This year has been exceptionally good for the Downing Street front yard orchard. We have an apple tree (Jonamac, I think) and a cherry tree (pie cherries) on a 60 x 100 lot. As of this writing, the apple crop is progressing nicely, and I estimate we'll harvest about 300 pounds of usable apples. The cherry tree has also been a great choice, providing cherries in late June and early July. These cherries are fantastic for pies, tarts, and other treats. They also freeze well, making delicious desserts that remind us of summer during the colder months.
I planted both trees with my then 3-year-old daughter in the early '80s. I still have fond memories of her helping me dig the holes for the saplings. Many years later, I was reminded of this when I planted another apple tree in the backyard with my 4-year-old grandson, who now stands well over 6 feet tall.
A garden is very much a thing of the moment, with work dictated by the seasons and followed by seasonal rewards. However, it is also a source of fond memories, especially if you've included small children or grandchildren in the planting process. If you're lucky enough to have little ones around, be sure to involve them in your gardening activities. It will give them a sense of responsibility and accomplishment and provide you with fun at the time and fond memories years later.
Deadheading is its Own Reward
Many books and articles about roses and other flowers emphasize the benefits of deadheading—that is, removing spent flowers after the petals have fallen off. Deadheading results in a delightful show the following spring or, with an increasing number of varieties, later in the growing season.
I questioned whether the effort was worth it on a blistering afternoon this past June, but I got it done, and I’m glad I did. Six weeks later, we are already being rewarded with a second show of delightful pink roses that are almost as good as the first one. So, if you have roses and want more, deadhead!
