Greetings from Evergreen Blooming! π
Welcome to the September edition of our monthly newsletter, a thoughtful guide as summer gently transitions into autumn across the U.S. As cooler breezes begin to replace the heat of August, September invites us to celebrate the continued bounty of our gardens and prepare them for the shift towards the colder months, all while maintaining sustainable practices.
In this issue, weβll explore:
- Late Summer Harvests & Preservingβ
September is a fantastic month for final harvests of many warm-season crops. We'll share tips to maximize your yield and preserve your produce, including our guide, Simple Techniques for Preserving Fresh Fruits.
- Fall Planting for Continued Growthβ
Discover which cool-season vegetables, such as leafy greens, radishes, and certain root crops, can be planted now for a delicious fall harvest.
- Soil Renewal & Cover Croppingβ
Learn sustainable methods to replenish your garden soil, including adding compost and planting cover crops to enhance fertility and prevent erosion over winter.
- Supporting Fall Pollinatorsβ
As many flowers fade, we'll highlight ways to provide food and habitat for late-season pollinators so they can prepare for winter.
- Garden Cleanup & Tool Maintenanceβ
Begin the gradual process of cleaning up spent plants, tidying beds, and preparing your tools for storage, ensuring they're ready for next spring.
- Community Harvest Festivals & Farmers Marketsβ
Many local communities host harvest festivals and farmers' markets in September, offering wonderful opportunities to enjoy local produce and connect with fellow gardeners.
For more in-depth guidance on cultivating your own delicious fruits and vegetables, along with general gardening guides and recommendations, be sure to visit the Evergreen Blooming website.
Please see and enjoy our latest articles on our website, Evergreen Blooming, by scrolling down our Home page until the "Latest Articles" section appears.
Here are five amazing facts about Pickles:
- Ancient Origins: Pickling is one of the oldest forms of food preservation, with evidence suggesting cucumbers were first pickled in Mesopotamia around 2400 BCE. Cleopatra was even said to have attributed her good looks to pickles!
- Technically a Fruit, Even When Pickled: Since cucumbers are botanically fruits, pickles are technically pickled fruits! They retain their botanical classification even after pickling.
- Many Varieties of Pickles: Beyond the common dill pickle, there are numerous types, including sweet pickles, bread and butter pickles, sour pickles, gherkins (small pickled cucumbers), and even various spicy versions. The flavor depends on the brining ingredients and spices used.
- Health Benefits: Fermented pickles can be a good source of probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria that support gut health. They also contain vitamins and antioxidants from the cucumbers and spices.
- Brine Can Be Reused: The leftover pickle juice, or brine, doesn't have to go to waste! It can be used to marinate meats, add flavor to salad dressings, tenderize tough cuts of meat, or even to quick-pickle other vegetables.
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For more in-depth guides, visit the Evergreen Blooming website, where youβll find resources on everything from winter sowing to compost bin recommendations.
Our guides cover everything from cultivating your fruits and vegetables to discovering expert gardening guides and recommendations for all experience levels.
Letβs embrace the gentle shift of September and ensure your sustainable garden continues to flourish!
Warm Regards,
Tracy and the Evergreen Blooming Team
βEvergreen Bloomingβ