The month of July is a glorious time for all our gardens especially in the
Elk Grove Community Garden. It is the time to savor all the bountiful
harvests and delicious recipes that will be prepared for our family dinners.
July is also the best time to see all the donations pouring in for the Food
Bank which is the core mission of the Elk Grove Community Garden. Let
us continue to reach the yearly goal of over 5,000 lbs. of food donations.
Tip of the Month: Ask for help: For the past several months, we have
been experiencing unprecedented changes in our inner circles of friends
and families, communities and nationally. Some of us are suffering from
lack of time to do everything that has been added to our to do lists. “Look
for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.” If you
planted a garden plot this year but find yourself short of time to water or
harvest your garden, do not hesitate to ask for help. We are in it together,
despite the social distancing restrictions, as a community will never stop
helping others because it is the real essence of the word community. It is a circle of helping hands. Do not give up on your gardens. Ask for help to get you through the rough days and when it is a good day, bask in the beauty and bounty of the garden that helps you restore your spirit.
Garden Maintenance: During the normal season, July is the hottest month of the year. However, this year is full of surprises and fluctuating weather conditions. We could use some rain though. As you walk around the garden, you will notice that you are surrounded with gigantic tomato plants, colorful peppers, sprawling squash plants and many climbing vegetables.
To maintain these beautiful growths, continue the removal of leaves and
branches that are unhealthy. Remember 4 Ds (Desucker, Defoliate, Dead and Dry). Maintain your moisture but do not overwater. If you are deep watering, you should be able to get away from the garden every 2-3 days. It is alright to give your plants a light shower from time to time to wash off unwanted pests/bugs. It is the most organic pest management method you can do next to using your fingers picking it and squeezing it.
During this time of the year is the perfect time to pick your most delicious
tomato, pop it in your mouth and let the most pleasant memories flow through you freely. After all, “it’s difficult to think of anything but pleasant thoughts while eating a homegrown tomato”.