New Planting

We harvested the last of the tomatoes today and I pulled up the vines. There is something satisfying about putting the vines in the compost pile. It's good to put the nutrients back into the soil.

   After consulting the planting chart from the local agricultural extension, I planted the next round of crops. We chose carrots, onions, and two different lettuces.

wilting grape leaves

A few days ago, I was wondering when the grape leaves would start to fall. Then the temperature dropped last night and the leaves seem to have transformed overnight. Many of them wilted. I imagine they're sending their stored sugars into the vines. 

tragedy in squash-land!

Last night the temperature dropped to 30 degrees for a few hours. We awoke to find our previously healthy squash plants all wilted. There is a small chance that they'll perk up tonight, but probably not. I've been learning much about the randomness of weather and success in a small garden.

winter squash still growing

Some beast has dug up all the carrot sprouts, but the winter squash are still surviving. We have high hopes for squash in a few months.

autumnal grape leaves

 The grape leaves are starting to change colors. It feels very Autumnal, even here among the chaparral.

still picking tomatoes in November

 

It's great to have fresh tomato soup for lunch. 

little guava tree still producing

 

So far, the little guava tree has been our most reliable producer. 

 

Today I picked another bowl of guavas from the little tree that's just barely taller than my knee. 

tomato soup!

Even after our epic battles with the hornworms, we've been lucky enough to still be harvesting tomatoes. Picked a big batch today and made tomato soup. Yum!

tomato and pomegranate salad

We are so fortunate to still have fresh tomatoes and pomegranates from the yard. Here's a salad from yesterday. A little jicama from the grocery store adds a little crunch.