THE VEGETABLE PATCH
Cream Chori Beans
- Vigna unguiculata
Native to India, these small tan beans
are new to Ann Marie's garden. They sprouted quickly and seem to
thrive in the 90+ degree temperatures Austin is currently experiencing.
References indicate that they may be eaten fresh or dried. The beans
were planted at the end of May, a second planting is scheduled for late
June. The taste and yield will be reported later this summer.
Amaranth 'Hot Biscuits'
Planted at the same time as the cream
chori beans, these seeds have not sprouted yet. Marketed primarily
as ornamental, Ann Marie hopes they will provide enough seed for a some
summer cooking projects.
Squash 'Sweet Dumpling'
These small, delicious acorn type squash
are extra sweet. Ann Marie began eating them in 1999, then was disappointed
to find that the local groceries didn't carry them in 2000. Hopefully,
the garden patch will yield enough to enjoy and give away. Spun row
cover will protect the vines from borers until blossoms appear, then the
cover will be removed to let the pollinators do their job.
Okra
It wouldn't be a Southern Summer without
okra. Two kinds are planted this year, 'Cajun Delight' and 'Clemson
Spineless'. Ann Marie has enjoyed former in recent years and been
delighted that it seems to stay tender to a larger size but decided to
compare the two this year. Okra is also appreciated in the garden
for its hibiscus type flowers.
Tomatoes
What would summer be without tomatoes?
This year the decision was made to only plant an unusual 'white tomato'
and a tiny but tough 'wild type'. The 'white tomato' really ripens
to a golden color and is only average in taste. The plant is vigorous
and yield is high. The darling tiny tomato, a gift from Dorothy Dick,
has sugary fruit that is smaller than marbles. Just the thing to
nibble on while working in the garden and perfect for sprinkling in salads.
Lima Beans
Pole Lima Beans were planted and growing
nicely...then the attack of the killer snails occurred. Planted on
rebar trellises adjacent to the cream chori beans, the eight inch tall
lima bean plants were chewed to one inch tall stubs. Ann Marie happened
upon the feasting early in morning and a mass snail slaughter followed.
The limas were replanted and are just starting to occur.