In a very unanticipated move, we planted the garden yesterday. The original plan was for this Thursday, but the weather outlook was not encouraging with a week of rain and thunderstorms in the forecast.
With Fernanda’s approval (she was at work), Len, Carlo and I headed to the nursery at 3PM to purchase tomato plants.
In late April/early May, hail producing storms can play havoc with small plants in Tuscany, but we were ready and determined to get the garden in before the storms. After all, we did the same two years ago with great success.
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With two years experience under their belts, Len and Carlo were up to the task.
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They moved quickly and efficiently, re-using the cane from years past to make the trellises.
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My job was to cut the twine, make caffè, and hold things as needed.
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When not needed, I wandered the fields next door. Only this year have I learned that the tall green grassy fields that blow in the wind are actually grain/wheat fields. I had assumed, incorrectly, that wheat would be a tan color, not bright green. These happen to be orzo or barley.
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A close-up reveals the familiar spike at the top of the plant.
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But back to the garden…four zucchini plants and eighteen tomato plants, (four varieties),
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all covered in mesh to hopefully ward off any potential hail damage.
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By 7 PM, the job was done and the full moon showered her approval.
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All in a day’s wonderful work, truly from farm to table (eventually!),
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with, fingers-crossed, a bit of cooperation from Mother Nature!
Ciao,
Judy
