Not Much Else

It’s mid-June but some night’s the temperature still drops to the mid 50º F and with a cool wind blowing during the day, it feels more like late winter than late spring.  Roses love this weather, a combination of cool dry days with some rain in between.  Except when the rain pours down so hard that everything droops and petals are knocked to the ground.

Not much else wants to grow in the vegetable garden either.  Tomato, chili peppers, beans, bitter melon and basil grow at a slower pace.  The good thing is there are no black spots or mildew in sight, even with heavy rain.  I guess it has been too cold for these tiny life forms to grow.

Cooler weather, however, is good for the leafy greens like lettuce, pac choi, mustard green, arugula, edible chrysanthemum, and broccoli.  They retain their sweetness longer and are not quick to bolt.  I still cover them with a net to block out the midday sun.  Herbs love this weather too.  I couldn’t cut them fast enough.  July may be different so I’m taking advantage by picking greens and herbs when I still can.