Indio, California: We have planted a "kitchen garden" the past few winters here in the Coachella Valley. We have three thigh-high-to-me pots on automatic drip irrigation and have been very lucky (full-on afternoon sun) harvesting the tomatoes and herbs we have planted.
Though earlier than usual, I went ahead and planted my "farm". So many of our friends and family are buried under feet (not inches) of snow... like our friend, Basu, in New Jersey:
Actually buried... so it may seem cruel to show our little plantings.
Pot One holds a Roma tomato and rosemary. Thyme will be added as soon as thyme is located.
The middle pot holds cilantro, sage and an odd mixture of six teeny heirloom cherry tomatoes. This is an experiment. The little tomatoes may die. The little tomatoes may consume our entire campsite. This pot is awaiting basil.
The last pot along the line of brick posts holds another Roma tomato, mint, Thai basil and oregano. Mint (of course) has done very well here previously.Added this year are two jalapeno peppers plants - mixed amongst the pansies - and not in the pots. Like I said, an experiment. The little kitchen garden is always fun, always different and always a learning experience for us.
And by us, I mean, me.
Every Sunday (in the season), there is a Farmers Market in Old Towne La Quinta. Not the most convenient day for us, but we are making an effort to support the local farmers and purveyors.
The market has several organic farmers, bakers (Rugelach!), dairies with cheeses and butters, olive oils, butchers, honey and most everything else you could need to produce a gourmet meal in the desert.Our vegetable treasures:
I know it is nearly impossible for so many of you to find real vine-ripened tomatoes (organic or otherwise) this time of year.They. Do. Exist.
Maybe before we head north for the summer, we will be able to harvest a few of our own?
Sunday night homemade pizza? Kalamata olives, roasted red pepper, red onion and feta cheese. Like a Greek salad on a pizza.And a massive salad with all that red leaf lettuce.
Until my next update, I remain, your planted correspondent.
RV PARK: The Motorcoach Country Club