Don’t throw them garlic scapes away. My wife takes them in the house, cuts them into small pieces and puts them onto trays in our dehydrator. Once dry, she grinds them up and puts it in small glass jars and stores them in a cool, dry dark place. Come winter she adds a dash here and a dash there in her soups, stews, spaghetti sauce or what ever. It makes things taste just that much better along with having tons of health benefits. This Dehydrator works quite well.

What more can you ask for?

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My lovely wife prepared a delightful supper last night, which you can see in the picture below. It was not only delicious but also a healthy meal choice. The plate consists of sweet potatoes, mixed vegetables, and a mouthwatering homemade meatloaf. To add some extra flavor, there are a few pieces of aged three-year-old cheese. And, of course, there’s a dollop of ketchup, as I simply can’t enjoy supper without it. Although during tomato season, I would forgo the ketchup. It won’t be long before we can savor the homegrown tomatoes once again.

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Fresh Ontario Grown Strawberries on a Homemade Waffle, topped with whip cream and Mike Clapperton’s Maple Syrup—it’s simply irresistible!

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Growing your own vegetables may seem difficult to some, but it’s actually quite simple. If you have a little bit of space, which doesn’t require much, you can grow the same vegetables that I am growing in the pictures below. And the best part is, you’ll save money because you won’t have to buy them from the grocery store every week, where you don’t know where they were grown or what chemicals were used on them.

Another great benefit of working in your own garden is that it keeps your body active, strong, and healthy. Instead of spending money on drugs or visiting the doctor every month, you can find the solution right outside your back door.

Food for thought.

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Some have asked. George, why not rustle up some good ol’ farmer advice with a pinch of humor for y’all!

Alright then, so listen up, Canada! It’s high time we put on our gardening gloves, grabbed a shovel, and started growing our own veggies and fruits. Why, you ask? Well, let me tell ya!

First off, let’s talk self-reliance, folks. We Canadians are known for our maple syrup, hockey skills, and, of course, being polite. But it seems lately that we have become too dependent on other countries for our grub? What we need to do is take matters into our own hands and grow our own darn food!

Now, imagine this: you step outside your door, pluck a juicy tomato straight off the vine, take a bite, and savor the explosion of flavor. There is no way that store-bought tomatoes can compete with that freshness! You’ll be saying, “Move over, ketchup, I’ve got my own homegrown goodness!” Trust me, your taste buds will thank you.

But hey, it’s not just about taste. It’s about knowing what goes into your food. When you grow your own produce, you’re the boss of your garden kingdom. You decide whether to go all organic or add a little somethin’ to keep the critters away. No more mystery chemicals or pesticides. You’ll be the captain of your own pesticide-free ship!

And let’s not forget the savings. Money doesn’t grow on trees, but fruits sure do! By growing your own veggies and fruits, you’re saving those hard-earned loonies and toonies. Sure, there might be some initial costs for seeds and tools, but think about the long-term savings. Your wallet will be thicker than a lumberjack’s beard! Actually, there are a lot of folks growing beards these days, and I am not sure why. Ha ha

But here’s the kicker: we’re not just talking about being self-reliant here, we’re talking about a full-blown gardening adventure! Picture yourself with your overalls, straw hat, and an abundance of veggies. You’ll be part farmer, part superhero, providing for yourself and your loved ones. It’s like having your own personal farmers’ market right in your backyard!

So, folks, let’s roll up our sleeves, grab a shovel, and get down and dirty. Let’s grow our own fruits and vegetables and show those other countries what we’re made of! Remember, with a little humor, a lot of love, and some good ol’ Canadian spirit, we’ll be harvesting the sweetest, juiciest produce this side of the North Pole. Happy gardening, eh?

Took a picture of our garlic and lettuce, showing how it is growing so far. It sure is tasty, and the garlic is Awesome!

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t took a few pictures of our Heirloom and Historic Peonies. They sure smell pretty, just like a rose.

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Here is another bouquet that my lovely wife put together using plants from our gardens. It’s amazing how she can take a few flowers and make them look so nice.

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Presenting another photograph featuring tulips from one of our gardens. I admire the country-flare aesthetic created by the rock, which adds a delightful backdrop to the scene.

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Here is a picture of a small garden we have by our front porch. It has a mixture of wild buttercups, and some perennials. And not to forget the dandelion! We just let nature take its course.

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My lovely wife walks out to our backyard, comes into the house, and walla! A nice vase of wild flowers along with some of hers. Simple but nice.

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Nurturing Our Soil, Nurturing Our Nation: Why Supporting Our Own Farmers is Crucial for Canada’s Self-Sufficiency

Introduction: In a rapidly changing world, where global supply chains dominate our supermarket shelves, it is becoming increasingly important to reflect on the importance of supporting our local farmers. Ontario, blessed with fertile soil and dedicated agricultural communities, has long been the breadbasket of Canada. However, the current trend of selling off prime farmland and relying on imported produce poses a threat to our nation’s self-sufficiency. In this blog post, let us explore the reasons why it is essential for us to support our own farmers, buy Canadian produce when it is in season, and cultivate a sense of compassion towards those who work tirelessly to feed our nation.

1. Preserving Our Agricultural Heritage: Farming is more than just a profession; it is a way of life. The Ontario farmer carries the rich legacy of nurturing the land, passing down agricultural wisdom from one generation to the next. By supporting our farmers, we not only ensure the preservation of this heritage, but also sustain the unique cultural identity that comes with it. The sale of prime farmland robs future generations of the opportunity to carry on this cherished tradition and connect with our agricultural roots.
2. Strengthening Food Security: In an increasingly interconnected world, food security is a pressing concern. By supporting our own farmers, we take a proactive step towards securing a stable food supply chain within Canada. Buying locally-produced food reduces our reliance on imported goods and mitigates the risks associated with global disruptions, such as climate change, political conflicts, and trade restrictions. When we prioritize Canadian produce, especially when it is in season, we foster resilience in our food system and ensure that our nation’s citizens have access to healthy, fresh, and nutritious food.
3. Environmental Stewardship: Canadian farmers are known for their commitment to sustainable farming practices and environmental stewardship. By purchasing Canadian produce, we support farmers who implement responsible land management techniques, prioritize biodiversity, and conserve our natural resources. Moreover, buying locally means reducing the carbon footprint associated with long-distance transportation, thereby contributing to mitigating climate change. Supporting our farmers not only promotes sustainable agriculture, but also helps protect our environment for future generations.
4. Boosting the Local Economy: When we buy Canadian produce, we directly contribute to the growth and prosperity of our local communities. Supporting our farmers means supporting their families, their employees, and the small businesses that rely on agriculture. By keeping our dollars within our own economy, we strengthen the local agricultural infrastructure, create jobs, and foster economic stability. A vibrant farming sector translates into a thriving rural economy, ensuring a higher quality of life for all Canadians.
5. Connecting with Nature and the Seasons: Choosing to buy Canadian produce in season allows us to reconnect with the rhythm of nature and appreciate the unique flavours and diversity of our land. It reminds us of the joy of anticipation as we eagerly await the arrival of strawberries in the spring or the crisp apples of autumn. By embracing local seasonal produce, we not only support our farmers, but also savour the freshness and quality of food that is harvested at its peak flavour.

Conclusion: Supporting our own farmers and prioritizing Canadian produce is not merely a matter of economics or national pride; it is an act of compassion towards those who toil under the sun to provide us with sustenance. By doing so, we preserve our agricultural heritage, strengthen our food security, promote sustainable practices, boost our local economy, and foster a deeper connection with nature. Let us embrace the opportunity to become more self-sufficient and ensure a bountiful future for all Canadians. Together, we can nurture our soil and nurture our nation.

My wife figured this might get me out there cutting grass more often.

Our GARLIC is looking good this year. It won’t be long before we will be eating the Scapes. And later on in the summer I will dig the bulbs for winter eating. They sure are tasty, especially in my lovely wife’s spaghetti.

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Here’s a blog post for you about fertilizing your vegetable garden with natural ingredients the old way, written from a farmer’s perspective and with a bit of humour. Enjoy!

Today, I want to talk to y’all about fertilizing your vegetable garden with natural ingredients the old way. As someone who’s been tending to crops for as long as I can remember, I can tell you that the best way to nourish your veggies is by going back to basics and using ingredients that Mother Nature intended. And trust me, it’s a heck of a lot more fun than buying a bunch of fancy, chemical-laden fertilizers.

So, what exactly are these natural ingredients, you ask? Well, let me tell you. First up, we’ve got good old-fashioned manure. Yes, I know it’s not the most glamorous thing in the world, but hear me out. Cow, horse, chicken, or even rabbit manure can work wonders for your soil. Not only does it provide a good source of nitrogen, but it also helps with water retention and soil structure. Just make sure you let it age for a bit before using it, otherwise you’ll be in for a real stinky surprise.

Next up, we’ve got compost. Now, this may not be the most exciting ingredient either, but it’s definitely one of the most effective. Compost is basically decayed organic matter, like leaves, grass clippings, and kitchen scraps. When added to your soil, it helps to improve its texture, adds beneficial microorganisms, and provides a slow-release source of nutrients. Plus, it’s a great way to reduce waste and make use of things you would have otherwise thrown away.

If you’re looking to add some specific nutrients to your soil, there are plenty of other natural options out there. For example, if you need more phosphorus, bone meal or rock phosphate can do the trick. If you need more potassium, wood ash or kelp meal are good options. And if you need more calcium, you can try adding some crushed eggshells.

Now, I know what some of you may be thinking. “But George, isn’t using natural fertilizers more work than just buying something from the store?” Well, yeah, it might take a little more effort on your part. But think about it this way: when you use natural fertilizers, you’re not just nourishing your plants, you’re also nourishing the soil. And healthy soil means healthy plants, which means healthier and tastier veggies for you to enjoy. Plus, you’ll be doing your part to reduce chemical runoff and promote sustainable agriculture.

So there you have it, folks. Fertilizing your vegetable garden with natural ingredients may not be the flashiest option out there, but it’s definitely one of the most effective. And who knows, you might even find yourself enjoying the process. Just don’t forget to wash your hands afterwards!

Until next time. GW

Howdy there, folks! Today, we’re gonna talk about one of my favourite veggies to grow in the garden: Asparagus. Now, if you’re lookin’ for a plant that’ll give you some good eatin’ year after year, asparagus is the way to go. It’s a mighty fine addition to any country boy’s or gal’s garden, and it sure does taste mighty fine on the dinner table too. So let’s dig in and learn all about harvestin’, growin’, and usin’ this green delight!

First things first, let’s talk about when to harvest that asparagus. Now, when it comes to this here plant, patience is key. You see, asparagus takes a bit of time to establish itself and build up its root system before you start pickin’ those spears. Typically, you wanna wait about two to three years after plantin’ before you start harvestin’. I reckon that might sound like a long time, but let me tell ya, it’s well worth the wait!

When it finally comes time to harvest, you wanna keep an eye out for them spears shootin’ up from the ground. You’ll notice ’em poppin’ up in the springtime, usually around April or May, dependin’ on where you’re located. Look for spears that are about 6 to 8 inches tall and have tight, closed tips. Now, here’s a little trick: when you’re cuttin’ them spears, make sure to use a sharp knife or pair of shears and cut ’em right at ground level. Be careful not to damage any of the other spears that are comin’ up nearby.

Alright, now let’s get into the nitty-gritty of growin’ asparagus. When it comes to plantin’, you wanna find a nice sunny spot in your garden with well-drained soil. Asparagus likes its space, so give ’em a good 18 inches to 2 feet between each plant. Diggin’ a trench about 8 inches deep and a foot wide should do the trick. Now, mix in some good ol’ compost or manure with that soil to give your asparagus some nourishment.

Next up, lay them crowns (that’s what we call the root system) in the trench, spreadin’ out the roots real nice-like. Cover ’em up with about 2 inches of soil, but don’t fill the trench entirely just yet. As them spears start growin’, keep addin’ soil gradually until you reach ground level. That’ll help protect the crowns and encourage healthy growth. And remember, asparagus likes a good drink of water, so make sure to keep ’em hydrated, especially during dry spells.

Now, let’s move on to the fun part: Usin’ that homegrown asparagus in the kitchen! Once you’ve harvested your spears, you wanna make sure to use ’em up fresh for the best taste. Asparagus is mighty versatile, so you can cook it up in a variety of ways. One popular method is to steam ’em until they’re tender but still have a little crunch. Then, you can enjoy ’em plain, with a little butter, or even wrapped in bacon for some extra country goodness.

If you’re feelin’ a bit adventurous, you can also roast or grill those spears. Just drizzle ’em with some olive oil, sprinkle a pinch of salt and pepper, and let ’em sizzle away on the grill or in the oven. Asparagus also plays real nice with other ingredients, like lemon juice, garlic, Parmesan cheese, or even in a good ol’ country-style stir-fry.

So there you have it, folks! That’s the best I can do using my country boy lingo. Have a great day! GW