Someone once said that basil tastes like summer. I would agree. This beautiful herb flourishes in the summer months, and its very distinctive taste and fragrance are unlike any other member of the mint family to which it belongs. Basil originated from India, and it is a key ingredient in…
The first time I planted okra, I thought there was something wrong with my plants. They looked healthy, but they hadn't bloomed. I longed to see the beautiful okra blossoms, which resemble those of its "cousin" the hibiscus. But what I longed for, even more, was okra! No flowers meant…
Lettuce may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think about what to plant in your garden, but maybe it should be. This low calorie veggie is not only a good source of dietary fiber, it's also full of vitamins like A, K and C, as…
Zucchini is a summer squash with an edible skin. It is believed to have originated in northern Italy. This amazing vegetable, low in calories and high in vitamin C, is a member of the cucurbit family, along with cucumbers, patty pan (scallop) squash, acorn squash, and melons. It's known as…
Some vegetable plants, like cucumber, zucchini, and squash, have both male and female flowers. Pollen from the stamen of the male flower must be transported to the ovary (which looks like a miniature version of the fruit) on the female flower. This usually occurs courtesy of bees and other pollinating…
Fresh cut cucumbers are synonymous with summer. Whether pickled, or used as an ingredient in soups, salads or refreshing drinks, this garden staple is a must.Here’s how to grow the best container cucumbers to enjoy all season long!Container and Soil TypeAs with any plant, especially those grown in containers, the…
Some think of okra as the "Jolly Green Giant" of the garden because the lobe-leafed member of the mallow family (related to the hibiscus) can reach heights of six feet or more in areas with a long growing season. Thus, one might think this vegetable requires a traditional garden row…