tomatoes ripening in the compost bin

A few weeks ago I pulled up the old tomato vines so I could plant winter veggies. The worms in the compost bin are slowly doing their good work on the vines, but something interesting has been happening to the tomatoes. There were a few green tomatoes left on the vines, and over the past few weeks, the tomatoes have been ripening. I ate a few this morning and they were delicious.

happy to see a bee

Today I noticed about 30 or so bees milling around on the rapini plants. Going pesticide-free has so many benefits....

surprised snake! and good Fall harvest

    I've been a bit neglectful of the garden lately. When I looked under the tomato plants, there was a three-foot-long snake looking back at me. We were both surprised and gave each other space. She slithered away in a very interesting way. The first foot or so of movement was fast and made noise as she rustled through the dry tomato leaves. Then she slowed down and moved so quietly I couldn't hear her at all - very cool. I couldn't think of a better companion in the garden. I hope she eats plenty of mice.

   In spite of my neglect, the garden is still producing....