3rd week of November 2008
Early this week we gathered all that was remaining unprotected in the garden before the night temperature dropped to the low 20s. Here is what the barrel houses looked like full of lettuces. I didn't want to take the chance of those nice heads freezing so I picked all the barrel lettuces also. Collections of cabbages, leeks, kale and lettuce were piled in the kitchen by the time it was dark outside. The next day snow was blowing and it felt like winter arrived. I was able to go to the warm protection of the greenhouse to gather a tub full of lush salad greens to make some of the last salad bags of the season. It is always envigorating to visit the greenhouse on a cold day and get a sun bath while pulling weeds or gathering greens. I have tried to pass along the pleasures of winter gardening by doing a cold frame seminar in late summer the past 5 years. My husband suggested the idea of videoing my class to pass along to others who can't attend the seminars. With the help of a videographer friend, we started filming some segments for the video a few weeks ago. We have plans to do more segments in the winter and spring showing the cold frame in different stages.
One of the unusual veggies that sparks much attention when I speak somewhere is the purple carrot. I have a late planting of them that is growing vigorously and we are harvesting some beautiful large carrots. They are not only colorful but also have excellent flavor. As the weather cools down, all carrots develop a wonderful sweetness as starches convert to sugars. They are a true winter delicacy. Now all the carrot beds are protected under leaves, ready for digging as we need them. With everything tucked into bed for the winter, I'm ready for the seed catalogues to start arriving!
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