Dixon Lagniappe...a little something extra

It has been nearly three weeks since Easter Sunday and the garden’s initial “planting”. And of course as mentioned earlier….some of the vegetables didn’t make it. I am happy to report that everyone seems content and new growth is very evident. I am a bit concerned with the zucchini. That one plant seems a little “too” happy…and I have to admit…if the squash were in fact marked incorrectly (this happened before)…I hope I don’t end up with three zucchini plants. That is just too much.

I gave up my search to find that elusive “honeydew” melon…you can only check the same stores so many times here in Dixon and Vacaville and be forced to conclude that a honeydew melon pieces  won’t be present in my future fruit trays.  And okay…I became a bit impatient…and decided that I would try something else…

Have you ever heard of a Twice As Nice Melon? I hope I am not alone when I say…a “what”? So…naturally…because my new addiction to planting something and watching it grow kicked in…I said “why not?” So…in the basket the melon went and then was placed on the patio table to wait its eventual dirt bath and “root” freedom.

The cantaloupe plant seems to be okay...small...but okay. No bugs...or stems. And not being satisfied with just that one melon, when I still have room for one more of the vine prone plants, I impulsively purchased a watermelon plant. Ironic though….I don’t exactly like watermelons or strawberries (great for ground cover right? Yes…there are strawberries on our property).  So….I think my neighbors and co-workers will benefit from my work. Or perhaps I should say…."care"…since Mother Nature really does her thing….I just sort of provide some water and keep the weeds at bay.

So, this morning I ventured out to enjoy the gorgeous weather that so far seems to be “wind” free and perfect for my day off and garden chores.  And both melons went easily into their new earth homes. I am sure they will love to spread out their roots and spread their vines and hopefully provide abundant fruit later this season.  The only issue the melons and even squash have is staying in their own personal space. The melons are actually “compartmentalized” behind some make shift chicken “wire-ish” fence. Vines tend to get out of control…and the squash…they will “explode” once they start producing fruit.

I am truly enjoying this whole garden experience. Although I am not a picky eater or a smartie pants in the kitchen….I do understand the difference behind fresh picked and the “big” box store produce and how the food truly tastes. And of course there is the relaxing “zen” feelings that being outside and working in the garden brings me….that is completely “priceless”…not to mention the fantastic fajitas, salads, casseroles, etc I will have in just a few weeks.  So…back to my green “escape”…I have some weeds to “negotiate” with and maybe some laundry.