The Joy of Summer Gardening at FireFarm
As a kid, I never questioned where my fruits and veggies came from. Like many children, I believed supermarkets were the magical source of all those yummy treats. Fast forward to today, and I find myself in a completely different mindset and lifestyle. Living on my “FireFarm” on the eastern end of Long Island, I am now the proud grower of some of our family's delicious produce.
Strawberry Fields Forever
Every June, the strawberry patch bursts into life, providing us with the most delectable and sweet berries. These little red gems are tender to the touch and absolutely mouth-watering. There's something incredibly satisfying about picking your own strawberries, knowing that they've grown under your care. The berries that become a bit overripe never go to waste. They are quickly turned into a delicious jam made with all-natural ingredients, preserving the taste of summer for the colder months.
A Bounty of Vegetables
This year, the garden is teeming with a variety of vegetables. I am growing four types of lettuce, string beans, and an impressive selection of tomatoes. Some of the tomato seeds have a special history, originating from our neighbor’s grandfather’s garden in Italy. These heirloom varieties carry not just a unique flavor but also a connection to the past.
The cucumbers and shishito peppers are thriving, adding vibrant colors and fresh tastes to our meals. The herb garden is also in full swing, with anise, rosemary, sage, oregano, parsley, and cilantro all growing abundantly. Each herb brings its own unique aroma and flavor, enhancing my culinary creations.
A Floral Paradise
But it's not just the vegetables that make the garden special. The floral side of FireFarm is a true oasis from spring through fall. This season, the peonies bloomed in June, alongside various types of roses. Among them, the hybrid tea roses stand out with their multi-colored petals, offering a breathtaking display.
I'm particularly fond of the Clematis flower family, which includes about 380 species within the buttercup family, Ranunculaceae. Originally from China and Japan, these flowers add an exotic touch to our garden. Another favorite is the Baptisia, both in wild indigo and yellow. These large perennials have a fascinating history, with their name originating from the Greek word 'bapto,' meaning to dip or dye, as they were once used for natural dyes.
In September, my Montauk daisies begin to bloom, while the knock-out roses continue to flower all season long, providing continuous bursts of color and beauty.
See some of my favorite blooms below!
The Simple Pleasures
Gardening at FireFarm is more than just a hobby; it's a way of life. There's an incredible sense of accomplishment in growing my food and creating a beautiful floral landscape. It's a reminder of the simple pleasures in life and the rewards of hard work and dedication.
Every morning, as I walk through the garden, I feel a deep connection to nature and a profound gratitude for the bounty it provides. The process of planting, nurturing, and harvesting is a labor of love that feeds both the body and soul. And at the end of the day, sharing these homegrown treats with my family makes all the effort worthwhile.
