tomatoes

Green Thumbs and Family Ties

Green Thumbs and Family Ties

My Italian mother-in-law, more feisty than a jalapeño and as mellow as honey, sat in the shade of the pergola in full bloom and shouted at me. "Why do they  
The Mystical Garden Chronicles

The Mystical Garden Chronicles

One year, I am sorry to report, the females in my family backed into the sides of our garage on three separate occasions, causing damage not only to car doors  
From Irish to Italian: A Culinary Love Story

From Irish to Italian: A Culinary Love Story

Growing up in a 100 percent first-generation Irish household, my mother's idea of spaghetti sauce was simple: three cans of Contadina paste mixed with water and a packet of "Spatini"  
The Old Watering Can

The Old Watering Can

In ratty flannel shirts and stained jeans, my mother would patrol the perimeter of her little garden, beaming with undivided pride and happiness. She would bend down, plucking weeds and  
Why Am I an Onion, Why Not a Tomato?

Why Am I an Onion, Why Not a Tomato?

In the lush, green expanse of Mrs. Green's garden, rows of vegetables stood tall and proud. The tomatoes, with their vibrant red fruit, gleamed in the sunlight, while the onions,  
Homegrown and Heartfelt

Homegrown and Heartfelt

If you’ve noticed more zucchinis than usual showing up on your neighbor’s doorstep lately, you’re not alone—and you’re witnessing something wonderful.  
The July Jungle

The July Jungle

Every July, my garden transforms from a neat little patch of soil into a glorious, sun-drenched jungle. It’s as if my plants throw a party the moment I turn my  
Hummingbirds in the Garden

Hummingbirds in the Garden

I've learned a lot about hummingbirds in the garden over the years. I've learned that they are not only incredibly beautiful creatures, but that they are also quite delicate. I've