Ralphie loves to swing in my hammock. A ritual we share late afternoons when a breeze has met with us to cool our hot summer brows. The challenge is getting on and off the hammock together, and then wiggling our bodies to the center where balance remains steady. Once we’ve accomplished an even poise, an unbelievable calm, deep within, overcomes me. It may not last long though. Oftentimes, Ralphie wants to get down for a short expedition, and then back up again. Sharing a hammock with a pet is a lot like stolen parenting moments. You pray for five minutes of peace and quite. When it arrives, you embrace it with all your might and hope to heaven that there will be more of the same. Soon.
Problem #2: Ants have invaded my zucchini blossoms. Ants love sap; we all know this from their drunken parties with sugar in the pantry, chocolate cake on the counter, a breakfast plate in the sink still holding pancake syrup. In the garden, ants are usually a sign of aphids, but this is not the case with my zucchini plant. The ants are after the nectar, and there’s plenty in the depths of yellow zucchini blossoms. If left untreated, the ants can steal all the pollen and cause the blossoms to drop.
Problem #3: In the perennial garden, my snapdragons have Downy Mildew. I’ve posted a photo so you’ll know how to identify it in your garden. Mildew is common on snapdragons, and most of mine get it every year. Unless it’s necessary, I’m not one to spend money on products. The snapdragons have finished blooming, and are littering seeds for next spring’s generation. Eventually, as the mildew spreads and turns the plant ugly or threatens to infect neighbors I’ll pull up the plant.
On warm summer evenings, all I need for super is a plate of Crisp n’ Tender Zucchini, shrimp and cucumber salad under Raspberry Vinaigrette, and a chilled glass of well water. I’m as happy as a rabbit in a zucchini patch. It’s all natural stuff. Good enough to eat.
In and Around the Garden 