Gargantuan Gourds

      This has been my first year to grow swan gourds.  I have purchased seed packets before, but have never planted the seeds.  This year I started them, and they are like the energiser bunny that keeps going, and going, and going.  While most of the other squash stuff has succumbed to this or that malady, the swans keep taking over garden territory.

      This shot shows a Marina Di Chioggia squash in the foreground, and behind is a dark green buttercup squash and a mottled swan gourd to the left.

Here is a swan on the ground

And here is one hanging from my new trellis

      The problem with the hanging gourds is that it straightens the necks.  I just started putting hanging baskets under the young gourds so that I can have them with a crook neck.  In any event, a beautiful and humongous gourd.

Berry Delicious

      The everbearing red raspberries are in, and they are delicious.  Scrumptious. Wonderful red raspberries that go well with bananas.  With watermelon.  With cereal.  And really well with ice cream.  With just about any fruit, or just a big handful eaten while cruising the bushes.  Be prepared for seeds in your teeth.  Well worth the taste sensation.

      Ah, there they are.  Some years we have to cover them to keep off the catbirds and robins.  So far this year they are uncovered and we are getting a great harvest.  They have just really come in at the first of September, and will continue to bear a little until frost.  Until then, great eating.

      The plants tend to multiply by runner, so I have loads available for you to start your own patch.  If you live nearby, give me a shout.  If you are further away, maybe I can start a mail order business.  A great way to extend your fruit season.  My patch has been going for twenty plus years.