Table Talk: March 18

Growing your own, with Amy Pennington

By Kim O'Donnel

March 16, 2010

How does your garden grow?

This week on Table Talk, Kim O’Donnel hosts special guest Amy Pennington, an expert on gardening, whose new cookbook, Urban Pantry, will be out this spring.

Amy Pennington

Join the conversation on Thursday, at 10 a.m. PT, 1 p.m. ET, with your gardening or food questions, suggestions, or links. Sign up below to receive an email reminder of the chat.

Kim, a trained chef and longtime food journalist, is writing a cookbook for people trying to eat less meat. Every week, she brings ideas, tips, and recipes to her live chats — right here at Table Talk, most Thursdays.

Table Talk with Kim O'Donnel - March 18, 2010

(03/18/2010)

  

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9:48	Kim ODonnel:  Ever want to grow your veggie patch but were afraid to ask how? Step right up -- urban edible gardener Amy Pennington will be dishing out advice for both newbies & veteran green thumbs, coming up at the top of the hour... Thursday March 18, 2010 9:48 Kim ODonnel

9:59

Kim ODonnel:  I'm so excited for today's guest, a grow-your-own force of nature. Meet Amy Pennington! She's the owner of GoGo Green Garden, an edible gardening business in Seattle. She also is the genius behind UrbanGardenShare.org, a garden website that pairs city gardeners with unused garden space via an online matching site. You can find her work nationally in Sunset magazine and regionally in Edible Seattle. AND...drum roll, please...Amy's got a new book coming out, The Urban Pantry. I'll let her tell you all about it. Now let's play in the dirt! Thursday March 18, 2010 9:59 Kim ODonnel

9:59	[Comment From redweather redweather : ]  hooray! i am so looking forward to this chat! i now have 2 years of balcony container gardening failure under my belt, and definitely need to either quit or become more successful..... Thursday March 18, 2010 9:59 redweather

9:59	amypennington:  Hey all! Thursday March 18, 2010 9:59 amypennington

10:00

amypennington:  Hi Redweather.....Where do you live? And what are you growing? Thursday March 18, 2010 10:00 amypennington

10:00

Kim ODonnel:  Amy, while folks start trickling in...tell us what you got in the dirt at the moment... Thursday March 18, 2010 10:00 Kim ODonnel

10:01

amypennington:  Well, just this morning I planted some lettuce seed. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:01 amypennington

10:01

Kim ODonnel:  in containers? Thursday March 18, 2010 10:01 Kim ODonnel

10:01

amypennington:  It's a bit early, but seeds are pretty cheap and if it doesn't work out, I can re-sow in a few weeks Thursday March 18, 2010 10:01 amypennington

10:01

[Comment From redweather redweather : ]  i'm in northern va - i've been trying to grow tomatos, zucchini, hot peppers, and/or nasturtiums - but no dice Thursday March 18, 2010 10:01 redweather

10:01

amypennington:  Containers, yes! The ironic bit about my business is I actually don't have a yard! Thursday March 18, 2010 10:01 amypennington

10:02

amypennington:  So I plant in containers in my east-facing (not ideal!) deck Thursday March 18, 2010 10:02 amypennington

10:02

[Comment From redweather redweather : ]  i did grow some lemon queen sunflowers in a guerrila space in my apartment complex (not on my balcony) and that worked much better Thursday March 18, 2010 10:02 redweather

10:02

amypennington:  Redweather- do your containers have sun all day? Thursday March 18, 2010 10:02 amypennington

10:02

[Comment From redweather redweather : ]  oh, yes, and i am also east facing. booooooo! Thursday March 18, 2010 10:02 redweather

10:02

amypennington:  Well, that could be the problem, right there Thursday March 18, 2010 10:02 amypennington

10:03

amypennington:  Here is a basic rule of thumb......greens (lettuces, herbs) need at MINIMUM 6 to 8 hours of sun a day. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:03 amypennington

10:03

[Comment From redweather redweather : ]  is there something that would work better? i really want to "grow my own" Thursday March 18, 2010 10:03 redweather

10:03

amypennington:  Fruiting plants like your tomatoes, zucchini, peas, etc need 10-12 hours a day Thursday March 18, 2010 10:03 amypennington

10:04

Kim ODonnel:  So Amy if you have less than 6 hours of sunlight, does that mean herbs? Thursday March 18, 2010 10:04 Kim ODonnel

10:04

amypennington:  For your east-facing (you getting at least 6 hours of sun there?) I would suggest a salad garden - lettuces, mache, arugula, lovage Thursday March 18, 2010 10:04 amypennington

10:04

amypennington:  Less than six hours means you need urbangardenshare.org! Thursday March 18, 2010 10:04 amypennington

10:05

amypennington:  But seriously...........edible plants are difficult to grow in less than 6 hours of sunlight. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:05 amypennington

10:05

Kim ODonnel:  YES! Is urbangardenshare a national network? Thursday March 18, 2010 10:05 Kim ODonnel

10:05

amypennington:  as are most plants, in truth Thursday March 18, 2010 10:05 amypennington

10:05

Kim ODonnel:  And tell the gang what this is all about... Thursday March 18, 2010 10:05 Kim ODonnel

10:05

amypennington:  Not yet - Urban Garden Share is launching in three pilot cities this spring Thursday March 18, 2010 10:05 amypennington

10:05

Kim ODonnel:  ooh....do tell! Thursday March 18, 2010 10:05 Kim ODonnel

10:05

amypennington:  Atlanta (aka hot-lanta), Louisville, KY and Portland OR Thursday March 18, 2010 10:05 amypennington

10:05

amypennington:  Urban Garden Share is a website set up to match gardeners to garden space! Thursday March 18, 2010 10:05 amypennington

10:06

Kim ODonnel:  So if I don't have space, but wanna grow... Thursday March 18, 2010 10:06 Kim ODonnel

10:06

[Comment From redweather redweather : ]  i hope you'll have a lot of success and come to NoVa soon! :) Thursday March 18, 2010 10:06 redweather

10:06

amypennington:  It takes advantage of overwhelmed or brown-thumbed homeowners with yards and grow-your-own condo and apartment dweller green-thumbs Thursday March 18, 2010 10:06 amypennington

10:06

amypennington:  matching them up via a website Thursday March 18, 2010 10:06 amypennington

10:06

amypennington:  Much like online dating.........but for food! Thursday March 18, 2010 10:06 amypennington

10:06

amypennington:  Good luck, redweather. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:06 amypennington

10:07

Kim ODonnel:  Does this mean that both parties share the food? Thursday March 18, 2010 10:07 Kim ODonnel

10:07

amypennington:  If you have access to your apartment courtyard and it's sunny - try planting there this year! Thursday March 18, 2010 10:07 amypennington

10:07

amypennington:  You know............it's up to both parties how they work out the arrangement, but in my mind, yes - the split the loot Thursday March 18, 2010 10:07 amypennington

10:07

amypennington:  or the harvest, I should say. One person provides space/water, the other skill/time and they can share in the harvest. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:07 amypennington

10:08

Kim ODonnel:  It's a brilliant idea. You do know that, right? Thursday March 18, 2010 10:08 Kim ODonnel

10:08

amypennington:  Yes! Thursday March 18, 2010 10:08 amypennington

10:08

amypennington:  I love Urban Garden Share! Thursday March 18, 2010 10:08 amypennington

10:08

Kim ODonnel:  Now about that book of yours... Thursday March 18, 2010 10:08 Kim ODonnel

10:08

amypennington:  Yes, so exciting! Thursday March 18, 2010 10:08 amypennington

10:08

amypennington:  My book, Urban Pantry comes out on April 15th. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:08 amypennington

10:09

amypennington:  It is a book about stocking and cooking from your pantry in an organized and delicious way. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:09 amypennington

10:09

Kim ODonnel:  That is so soon! Congratulations. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:09 Kim ODonnel

10:09

amypennington:  We all have eggs laying around - but we can use them for more than breakfast - it's a fresh way to start thinking about what you use in the kitchen and being mindful of food and being thrifty, as well. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:09 amypennington

10:10

amypennington:  There is also a chapter dedicated to THE PANTRY GARDEN - great for all the grow-your-own gardeners out there Thursday March 18, 2010 10:10 amypennington

10:10

Kim ODonnel:  Pantry garden. Great way to describe. What's in the ideal pantry garden? Thursday March 18, 2010 10:10 Kim ODonnel

10:11

amypennington:  Herbs - lots of herbs Thursday March 18, 2010 10:11 amypennington

10:11

amypennington:  Herbs are hands down one of the best things to grow if you don't have a lot of space and you cook alot for 2 reasons...... Thursday March 18, 2010 10:11 amypennington

10:11

Kim ODonnel:  I've never had the space to grow (or at least that's what I've thought). But yes, it seems like herbs are one of the most cost-effective things to grow Thursday March 18, 2010 10:11 Kim ODonnel

10:12

amypennington:  First, because herbs are pretty pricey little things at the grocery. It used to KILL me to spend $3 on herbs I would only use 1/2 of in time. (one of the reasons I started growing my own food, btw.) Thursday March 18, 2010 10:12 amypennington

10:12

amypennington:  Right! Thursday March 18, 2010 10:12 amypennington

10:12

amypennington:  Secondly, herbs are nearly the single-most flavorful thing you can add to spruce up your cooking. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:12 amypennington

10:12

Kim ODonnel:  The only other thing I've ever grown is cherry tomatoes in pots. That to me is a big treat... Thursday March 18, 2010 10:12 Kim ODonnel

10:13

amypennington:  Let's take that fried egg. Fried egg is a fried egg is a fried egg, but chop a little parsley on and it changes. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:13 amypennington

10:13

amypennington:  Add some cilantro and a chopped tomato, and it's a new flavor. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:13 amypennington

10:13

[Comment From Jill, The Veggie Queen Jill, The Veggie Queen : ]  I encourage all my students to grow herbs and tell them that if I can do it, they can, too. I am not a major gardener and don't need to be because i have wonderful local farmers. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:13 Jill, The Veggie Queen

10:13

amypennington:  When you have a few pots of something green, it's a great garnish and a great flavor boost Thursday March 18, 2010 10:13 amypennington

10:14

amypennington:  Hi Jill - do you teach people how to grow food? Thursday March 18, 2010 10:14 amypennington

10:14

[Comment From Dawn Dawn : ]  Hi Amy! I was wondering if you have any recommendations on a book or website for starting your own backyard garden from scratch? I have about 1/4 acre property, and there's a spot that would be perfect because of the amount of light it gets. It's a 4 ft by 10 ft patch. I was thinking of doing a raised bed. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:14 Dawn

10:14

[Comment From Jill, The Veggie Queen Jill, The Veggie Queen : ]  It's often too hot here, though,, in the summer to grow cilantro but I love the stuff. With that, I will eat/use the whole bunch and more. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:14 Jill, The Veggie Queen

10:14

amypennington:  Hi Dawn - where do you live? Thursday March 18, 2010 10:14 amypennington

10:14

[Comment From redweather redweather : ]  Amy; i'd like to experiment with some herbs on my balcony and try to find a sunnier spot for the other stuff.... can you give some suggestions for the hardiest, easiest varieties? Thursday March 18, 2010 10:14 redweather

10:15

[Comment From Jill, The Veggie Queen Jill, The Veggie Queen : ]  I teach people how to cook with fresh food, and encourage them to grow what they can or buy it locally. I live in Sonoma County -- the chosen spot of the world, according to Luther Burbank. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:15 Jill, The Veggie Queen

10:15

amypennington:  Hi Jill - too hot for cilantro sound contradictory! Have you grown this herb? Try protecting with floating row cover in the summer- it will drop the temp and protect the cilantro. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:15 amypennington

10:16

amypennington:  Hi Redweather - sure thing! Try tarragon and lovage Thursday March 18, 2010 10:16 amypennington

10:16

amypennington:  They are lesser known herbs, but add big flavor and they are perennial so they will come back year after year Thursday March 18, 2010 10:16 amypennington

10:16

[Comment From Lizka Lizka : ]  Amy congrats on all your projects - so exciting. I live in Alexandria, VA and do containers as well. I want to do more herbs this year (besides basil, sage, mint) - what do you suggest? Thursday March 18, 2010 10:16 Lizka

10:17

[Comment From Jill, The Veggie Queen Jill, The Veggie Queen : ]  I have less than ideal growing places that are tough to cover. They tend to bolt before their time. I'll let the "real" farmers and gardeners grow it. I prefer to save my space for tomatoes and cucumbers. Love fresh cucumbers. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:17 Jill, The Veggie Queen

10:17

amypennington:  I should note, also, that the BIGGEST issue/problem with container gardening for most people seems to be water. You must take care to water your pots - every day sometimes twice a day when it's very hot. They dry out quickly. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:17 amypennington

10:17

amypennington:  Hi Lizka - see my response to Redweather - these are 2 of my favorite! Thursday March 18, 2010 10:17 amypennington

10:17

Kim ODonnel:  Amy, such a good point about containers. I learned the hard way with tomatoes one year. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:17 Kim ODonnel

10:17

[Comment From Dawn Dawn : ]  I'm in Northern VA. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:17 Dawn

10:18

[Comment From Jill, The Veggie Queen Jill, The Veggie Queen : ]  I love my English thyme. Looks like heck but keeps on giving, along with my garlic chives. Easy to do -- and chervil seeds itself. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:18 Jill, The Veggie Queen

10:18

amypennington:  Yes, and you need to feed container plants as well, as they are not in a 'natural' environment. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:18 amypennington

10:19

Kim ODonnel:  What do you suggest "feeding" the plants with? Thursday March 18, 2010 10:19 Kim ODonnel

10:19

[Comment From Jill, The Veggie Queen Jill, The Veggie Queen : ]  Is feeding your container plants with "worm compost Thursday March 18, 2010 10:19 Jill, The Veggie Queen

10:19

[Comment From Jill, The Veggie Queen Jill, The Veggie Queen : ]  That should have read worm compost tea. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:19 Jill, The Veggie Queen

10:19

[Comment From Lizka Lizka : ]  Also, any tip on caring for cherry tomatoes in containers? Thursday March 18, 2010 10:19 Lizka

10:19

amypennington:  HI Dawn - first, you should check out your local extension offices for more locally-sourced growing information: http://www.ext.vt.edu/offices/ Thursday March 18, 2010 10:19 amypennington

10:20

amypennington:  They often provide planting calendars tell you what you should grow and when. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:20 amypennington

10:20

[Comment From Jill, The Veggie Queen Jill, The Veggie Queen : ]  I'd like to say that almost anybody can have some lovely worms in containers which will help your garden plants immensely and get you composting. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:20 Jill, The Veggie Queen

10:21

amypennington:  Fertilizer is plant 'food' essentially - there are several organic fertilizers. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:21 amypennington

10:21

amypennington:  Greens like lettuce need nitrogen for healthy growth Thursday March 18, 2010 10:21 amypennington

10:21

Kim ODonnel:  I live on the water (I know, life is rough). But does the moisture (and wind) have an impact on how plants would grow? Thursday March 18, 2010 10:21 Kim ODonnel

10:21

amypennington:  This is where Jill's compost tea/worm compost comes in to play. A little goes a long way with this, though! It is possible to over-fertilize and burn your plants. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:21 amypennington

10:22

amypennington:  Tomatoes, on the other hand, need phosphorus to fruit. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:22 amypennington

10:22

Kim ODonnel:  So... diff. fertilizers for diff. plants? Thursday March 18, 2010 10:22 Kim ODonnel

10:22

amypennington:  Often, nurseries will have tomato-specific fertilizer that is higher in phosporus. You should cater your fertilizer to the plant. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:22 amypennington

10:23

amypennington:  So, Lizka - that's a tip for your cherry tomatoes Thursday March 18, 2010 10:23 amypennington

10:23

amypennington:  ALSO - tomatoes like to root deeply, which means you need a big pot. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:23 amypennington

10:23

Kim ODonnel:  If you were growing for the very first time, what 3 things would you sugest? or is 3 too many to start with? Thursday March 18, 2010 10:23 Kim ODonnel

10:23

[Comment From redweather redweather : ]  yay for worm compost! i made myself a worm bin, and i love it, but i need a garden! :) Thursday March 18, 2010 10:23 redweather

10:23

[Comment From Lizka Lizka : ]  Got it. Thanks. :) Thursday March 18, 2010 10:23 Lizka

10:24

amypennington:  Time and time again, I see people put tomato plants in too small a container - tomatoes need a container at LEAST one foot deep, preferably 2. And only one per pot - don't crowd! Thursday March 18, 2010 10:24 amypennington

10:24

Kim ODonnel:  That's such a good tip. I'm taking notes...And how early can you get tomatoes into a pot? Thursday March 18, 2010 10:24 Kim ODonnel

10:24

amypennington:  Ok, Kim - water/wind doesn't affect too much. Certainly it's a factor but not normally a variable that would do too much over time. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:24 amypennington

10:24

amypennington:  If anything it stays more consistent, as water will hold it's heat longer Thursday March 18, 2010 10:24 amypennington

10:25

amypennington:  In the Pacific NW tomatoes go in JUNE Thursday March 18, 2010 10:25 amypennington

10:25

amypennington:  Other areas, 'specially in the South - May Thursday March 18, 2010 10:25 amypennington

10:25

amypennington:  Maybe April for Calif Thursday March 18, 2010 10:25 amypennington

10:25

[Comment From Lizka Lizka : ]  I bought this huge pot for some other reason and now use it for tomatoes for just the reason you say - it was the only thing that made any sense. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:25 Lizka

10:25

amypennington:  Depends on the year Thursday March 18, 2010 10:25 amypennington

10:25

amypennington:  OK - THREE STARTER VEG! Thursday March 18, 2010 10:25 amypennington

10:25

[Comment From Erin Erin : ]  Hi Amy! I'd also like to plug local extension offices for their soil testing capabilities. You should be able to print off a form and send in a sample (easy as a ziplock baggie). Basic tests are less than $20 and you can also request additional nutrient testing if necessary. In a few weeks, your soil test results are returned along with recommendations for amendments if necessary. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:25 Erin

10:25

amypennington:  Lettuce! Thursday March 18, 2010 10:25 amypennington

10:25

amypennington:  Beets or Radish! Thursday March 18, 2010 10:25 amypennington

10:25

amypennington:  Zucchini! Thursday March 18, 2010 10:25 amypennington

10:26

Kim ODonnel:  Really? Zucchini? Because it's so prolific? Thursday March 18, 2010 10:26 Kim ODonnel

10:26

[Comment From Angie Angie : ]  How about Swiss chard. I'm doing starts for the first time. They germinated faster than even basil! Thursday March 18, 2010 10:26 Angie

10:26

amypennington:  Hi Erin - most extension offices are a FANTASTIC source for all things growing and even preserving, for sure. And soil testing is never a bad idea - great reminder. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:26 amypennington

10:27

amypennington:  Chard is great! Thursday March 18, 2010 10:27 amypennington

10:27

amypennington:  It will last for seasons and seasons. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:27 amypennington

10:27

amypennington:  Are you planting in a pot Angie? Thursday March 18, 2010 10:27 amypennington

10:27

amypennington:  And ANGIE - where do you live? Thursday March 18, 2010 10:27 amypennington

10:27

Kim ODonnel:  From Jill: I want to mention my new local website to get people gardening here in Sonoma Co[...]unty. http://www.igrowsonoma.org. I avoid zucchini -- too much room for such a common veg. I love tomatoes. Never have I grown beets. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:27 Kim ODonnel

10:27

[Comment From Angie Angie : ]  Yay, do you mean it reseeds? And, mine are in pots now but will go in a bed. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:27 Angie

10:28

[Comment From Angie Angie : ]  I'm in Portland. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:28 Angie

10:28

Kim ODonnel:  So, with lettuce -- if all you got room for are pots, do you prefer hanging to minimize critter invasion? Thursday March 18, 2010 10:28 Kim ODonnel

10:28

amypennington:  I agree with Jill about zucchini taking too much room for a common veg. But for a first timer growing in pots, it's a great easy vegetable. Will instill confidence and it's a prolific plant. Additionally, try a new/unique variety that you can't get in the markets. www.rareseeds.com is a great resource for fun plant varieties Thursday March 18, 2010 10:28 amypennington

10:29

amypennington:  HI Angie, No it won't re-seed Thursday March 18, 2010 10:29 amypennington

10:29

amypennington:  It has a long life - chard is a biennial Thursday March 18, 2010 10:29 amypennington

10:29

amypennington:  So it's life cycle is 2 years Thursday March 18, 2010 10:29 amypennington

10:29

Kim ODonnel:  Erin, what are you growing in central PA ? Thursday March 18, 2010 10:29 Kim ODonnel

10:29

[Comment From Erin Erin : ]  In addition to local extension offices, you can talk to the vendors/farmers at the markets about where they obtain their fertilizers and soil nutrients. If things like organic fertilizers are your thing, they will know where to get it. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:29 Erin

10:30

amypennington:  I'll spare you the science behind that and send you here: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Biennial_plant Thursday March 18, 2010 10:30 amypennington

10:30

[Comment From Lizka Lizka : ]  Does Chard work well in pots? Thursday March 18, 2010 10:30 Lizka

10:30

amypennington:  HI Angie - too early to sow basil in Portland. You can't set that plant out until late May. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:30 amypennington

10:30

[Comment From Jill, The Veggie Queen Jill, The Veggie Queen : ]  Lucky for me, Baker Creek Heirloom Seeds http://www.rareseeds.com opened a store to peruse and buy just 20 mins away. I already have my Star of David okra seeds. Can these be grown in a raised bed? I know that they get big/tall. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:30 Jill, The Veggie Queen

10:31

[Comment From Danielle - Portland Danielle - Portland : ]  Hi, I am going to do hanging tomatoes and probably lettuce on the top of the container. I'm also trying peas in pots on a trellis. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:31 Danielle - Portland

10:31

amypennington:  Kim, I keep a mix of hanging pots and pots on the ground because I like the look of different heights and fullness on my deck. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:31 amypennington

10:31

amypennington:  That said, critter invasion is inevitable, so I try not to sweat it! Thursday March 18, 2010 10:31 amypennington

10:31

Kim ODonnel:  We've got a neighborhood raccoon, so thinking ahead... Thursday March 18, 2010 10:31 Kim ODonnel

10:31

[Comment From Britt Britt : ]  I'm doing a container garden on my NYC balcony (first-timer here) and I'm nervous about supporting my tomatoes--that I'll do it wrong/won't get it. Any tips? And what do you recommend using for support? Are wooden stakes enough? Thursday March 18, 2010 10:31 Britt

10:31

amypennington:  Jill, yes - you may grow okra in a bed Thursday March 18, 2010 10:31 amypennington

10:31

amypennington:  Holla NYC! Thursday March 18, 2010 10:31 amypennington

10:32

amypennington:  Britt, wooden stakes are just fine! Thursday March 18, 2010 10:32 amypennington

10:32

amypennington:  I use 2 or 3 thin bamboo poles and teepee them together Thursday March 18, 2010 10:32 amypennington

10:32

amypennington:  make sense? Thursday March 18, 2010 10:32 amypennington

10:32

[Comment From Angie Angie : ]  Amy, We got lulled by a fantastic Feb! I'll baby the basil along in a potting shed as long as I can. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:32 Angie

10:32

[Comment From Britt Britt : ]  :) Thursday March 18, 2010 10:32 Britt

10:33

[Comment From Jill, The Veggie Queen Jill, The Veggie Queen : ]  That's exciting. How much space does okra need? It's a vegetable that tastes best when fresh picked and young. I'm excited. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:33 Jill, The Veggie Queen

10:33

[Comment From Erin Erin : ]  Hey Kim! Central PA is having some fabulous pre-spring weather and I am itching. I plan on growing several varieties of squash (I've got the room and would like the big textural leaves), garlic in the fall, some chard, lettuces, and a lot of lavendar. Pretty basic, but I've got three nascent gardeners/landscapers to keep track of, and we're doing a local CSA for the "good stuffs!" Thursday March 18, 2010 10:33 Erin

10:33

amypennington:  Hey Lizka - your chard in pots question - yes it can work, but you MUST have a very deep pot. Chard roots down a good foot or two. They are massive. In order for that plant to produce, a large pot is necessary. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:33 amypennington

10:34

Kim ODonnel:  Wow, Erin, I am so impressed. Have you thought of doing an edible diary? I would be happy to discuss w/ you. Your garlic mention reminds me of my question for Amy: Can you grow garlic in pots?? Thursday March 18, 2010 10:34 Kim ODonnel

10:34

[Comment From Britt Britt : ]  Yes--I think I'm mostly going to have to see it...but good to know I'm on the right path. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:34 Britt

10:34

amypennington:  HI Jill - we can't really grow Okra here, but I can tell you from what I've seen the plants do not get crazy big Thursday March 18, 2010 10:34 amypennington

10:34

[Comment From Erin Erin : ]  Oh! And blueberries! Putting in a bunch of bushes! Thursday March 18, 2010 10:34 Erin

10:34

Kim ODonnel:  You go girl. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:34 Kim ODonnel

10:35

amypennington:  I'll try and find a pic for you - but don't sweat it! Better to be sure you have a deep enough pot and you are fertilizing when you plant and then you water! Thursday March 18, 2010 10:35 amypennington

10:35

[Comment From Angie Angie : ]  Also eager to know about blueberries, mine in first year in ground. Prune? Thursday March 18, 2010 10:35 Angie

10:35

amypennington:  Britt - scroll back in case you joined late - good tomato tips at the start of this convo Thursday March 18, 2010 10:35 amypennington

10:35

[Comment From Erin Erin : ]  Edible diary? That would be really helpful, year to year. Tell me/us more! Thursday March 18, 2010 10:35 Erin

10:36

Kim ODonnel:  I've been thinking it'd be fun to have readers such as yourself post a weekly update from your garden. I don't know what shape it'd take, but I'm tinkering w/ ideas... Thursday March 18, 2010 10:36 Kim ODonnel

10:36

amypennington:  Garlic in pots? I'm sure you could, but frankly..........I wouldn't bother. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:36 amypennington

10:37

Kim ODonnel:  Because you'd need a 3-foot-deep pot? Thursday March 18, 2010 10:37 Kim ODonnel

10:37

[Comment From Lizka Lizka : ]  Regarding lovage, can you tell me a bit more about it, how you use it? I did a quick search and they're talking about seeds - is it not the leaves with this plant that are eaten? Thursday March 18, 2010 10:37 Lizka

10:37

[Comment From Jill, The Veggie Queen Jill, The Veggie Queen : ]  I have seen okra plants that are more than 6 feet tall here in Sonoma County which is why I am a bit concerned. I think that I'll give it a shot, and read the seed packet. (unique idea). Thursday March 18, 2010 10:37 Jill, The Veggie Queen

10:37

amypennington:  The reason I wouldn't bother is b/c garlic has a long growing cycle - 6 to 9 months from start to finish AND it's readily available everywhere. It's one of those crops that are a dime a dozen. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:37 amypennington

10:37

amypennington:  No need to prune blueberries in the first year, Angie Thursday March 18, 2010 10:37 amypennington

10:38

[Comment From redweather redweather : ]  ah, berries! i have wild blackberries and raspberries along my running route.... it's an area largely ignored by county maintenance... do you think i could successfully transplant a bush or two? if i had a space? Thursday March 18, 2010 10:38 redweather

10:39

amypennington:  HERE IS AN EXCERPT FROM MY BOOK, URBAN PANTRY, out April 15th!! Lovage - Lovage looks like parsley but tastes celery-like, although the flavor is much more pronounced. This perennial plant comes back year after year, even in container pots. You can use every last inch of the lovage plant in the kitchen—leaves, seeds, stalks, and even the roots. If you live in a small condo or apartment and don’t have garden space, lovage is an excellent choice as just a leaf or two will add intense flavor to a recipe. You do not need a huge plant or repeated sowings to make use of this herb. If, however, you have garden space, you should plant this one in the ground. Its girth will take over a large area, but the excess seeds it produces can be harvested midsummer for the spice pantry and the plant’s blossoms attract good pollinators to the garden. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:39 amypennington

10:39

amypennington:  Kim - a garden journal sounds like a great idea! I keep mine all on paper. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:39 amypennington

10:40

amypennington:  Redweather- transplant away! Now is the time Thursday March 18, 2010 10:40 amypennington

10:40

Kim ODonnel:  we should TAWK, dahling. maybe you coud be resident online master gardener-trix... Thursday March 18, 2010 10:40 Kim ODonnel

10:40

amypennington:  Just make sure to fertilize the new growing spot and mound up the soil before you plant. Most berries don't like wet 'feet' and this will help with drainage. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:40 amypennington

10:41

amypennington:  done and done! Thursday March 18, 2010 10:41 amypennington

10:41

[Comment From redweather redweather : ]  wow - sounds great, and i love the name "lovage" - what do you cook with lovage? Thursday March 18, 2010 10:41 redweather

10:41

Kim ODonnel:  Lovage is a GREAT garnish. Delicate. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:41 Kim ODonnel

10:41

amypennington:  I use it as a finishing herb - over eggs is my favorite (especially with smoked fish). You can chop some up and toss it in over steamed clams/mussels or a white fish. Lovage loves fish. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:41 amypennington

10:42

amypennington:  And fish loves lovage :) Are you looking for lovage? Thursday March 18, 2010 10:42 amypennington

10:42

amypennington:  Ok, I'll stop! Thursday March 18, 2010 10:42 amypennington

10:42

Kim ODonnel:  hahahah. Aren't we all looking for lovage? Thursday March 18, 2010 10:42 Kim ODonnel

10:42

amypennington:  Yes, we are Thursday March 18, 2010 10:42 amypennington

10:42

[Comment From Erin Erin : ]  Lovage appears in all of the f. markets' salad "mixes" here. Love it. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:42 Erin

10:42

[Comment From redweather redweather : ]  in all the wrong places Thursday March 18, 2010 10:42 redweather

10:42

amypennington:  That's going to be Urban Garden Share's new tagline - "Looking for Lovage?" Thursday March 18, 2010 10:42 amypennington

10:42

[Comment From Jill, The Veggie Queen Jill, The Veggie Queen : ]  The only reason to plant garlic would be if you want to grow one or more of the amazing specialty garlic types. I love Spanish Roja and a bunch of others. We have garlic king Chester Aaron here who grows more than 90 kinds of garlic. I've grown it. You wait forever. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:42 Jill, The Veggie Queen

10:43

Kim ODonnel:  Amy, you could have a theme song... Thursday March 18, 2010 10:43 Kim ODonnel

10:43

amypennington:  You're right on with that one, Jill Thursday March 18, 2010 10:43 amypennington

10:43

[Comment From Val Voci Val Voci : ]  I lost my nice sunny raised beds to the shade from massive trees a few years ago. As happy as I am to have these trees, I have been moving my gardens around the house every year. Two years ago I bought plastic pots that look like fancy terra cotta to make the lifting easier. They look nice and come in a variety of sizes so you can get a deep one for greens. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:43 Val Voci

10:44

amypennington:  Great tip, Val! I do the same - cheap plastic (holds water better, too) and then I spray paint them in fun colors b/c I hate the look of the plastic. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:44 amypennington

10:44

[Comment From redweather redweather : ]  i would be totally game to plant garlic - they want $4 a head for organic garlic at my farmer's market.... Thursday March 18, 2010 10:44 redweather

10:44

[Comment From Lizka Lizka : ]  Laughing out loud here at my desk at all the lovage puns :) Thursday March 18, 2010 10:44 Lizka

10:44

amypennington:  WHAT? - that's silly! Thursday March 18, 2010 10:44 amypennington

10:44

amypennington:  If you have a yard and you have space, garlic is a great crop to grow in one big bed, for sure. It's container planting where it's a challenge. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:44 amypennington

10:45

amypennington:  All this food talk is making me very hungry. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:45 amypennington

10:46

amypennington:  So, here is a tip - for those growing in a yard Thursday March 18, 2010 10:46 amypennington

10:46

Kim ODonnel:  Yes, I've seen heads of garlic at crazy prices too. I've been thinking same thing... Thursday March 18, 2010 10:46 Kim ODonnel

10:46

[Comment From Erin Erin : ]  (Amy, that's why I'm lucky to be on the east coast: I eat lunch during these chats!) Thursday March 18, 2010 10:46 Erin

10:46

[Comment From Angie Angie : ]  Planning to get a hand truck to help move pots around. Also "cursed" with shade trees. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:46 Angie

10:46

amypennington:  Make sure to mix in some perennials - plants that come back year after year. This spares you from constant labor, and also keeps your garden full of life all year. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:46 amypennington

10:47

amypennington:  Trees are challenging. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:47 amypennington

10:47

amypennington:  It's a good note to make for anyone who will buy property at some time in this life! Be mindful of your trees! They don't stay 6' tall forever. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:47 amypennington

10:48

[Comment From Angie Angie : ]  Another question: What plants do CATS dislike? They consider my yard a visiting lounge. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:48 Angie

10:48

amypennington:  Garlic can sit all winter long - so if you have the space, it's economical. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:48 amypennington

10:48

amypennington:  Angie - you have all containers? Or soil? Thursday March 18, 2010 10:48 amypennington

10:48

[Comment From Lizka Lizka : ]  Great chatting with you Amy. Hope you come back and chat with us again. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:48 Lizka

10:48

amypennington:  Thanks, Lizka! Good luck! Thursday March 18, 2010 10:48 amypennington

10:48

Kim ODonnel:  I'm hoping Amy will want to come back in a few months! Thursday March 18, 2010 10:48 Kim ODonnel

10:49

[Comment From Angie Angie : ]  Small trees in containers. Several beds. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:49 Angie

10:49

amypennington:  Check out www.gogogreengarden.com for my blog and timely garden info! Thursday March 18, 2010 10:49 amypennington

10:49

[Comment From Danielle - Portland Danielle - Portland : ]  I definitely want to mix perennials into my garden. My front lawn has the most sun so I want to try a edible landscaping approach instead of a standard garden bed. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:49 Danielle - Portland

10:49

amypennington:  Ok, so here is my organic cat-repelling trick. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:49 amypennington

10:49

[Comment From Erin Erin : ]  The perennials for our garden will be flowers; again, varieties that grow easily and can take our hardiness zone. The ideal is to incorporate some edible items to add color, texture, and fruits for fall. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:49 Erin

10:49

amypennington:  CINNAMON! Thursday March 18, 2010 10:49 amypennington

10:49

Kim ODonnel:  wow. you so smart. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:49 Kim ODonnel

10:49

[Comment From Lizka Lizka : ]  I already added your site to my list. ;) Thursday March 18, 2010 10:49 Lizka

10:49

amypennington:  I sprinkle a reasonable amount around the perimeter of my beds. They do not like it - too strong. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:49 amypennington

10:50

[Comment From Angie Angie : ]  Cinnamon -- cool!! I had no idea. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:50 Angie

10:50

[Comment From Danielle - Portland Danielle - Portland : ]  oh, i'm listening on the cat repelling, need to keep my cats out of the veggies. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:50 Danielle - Portland

10:50

amypennington:  Lots of people say cayenne, but that just seems plain ol' mean to me - I don't want to irritate they little eyes/paws, but cinnamon will repel. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:50 amypennington

10:50

[Comment From Erin Erin : ]  AWESOME. I'm going to go and cinnamon my backyard flower area. I found some cat "evidence." I wish that they'd help keep the chipmunks in check. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:50 Erin

10:50

[Comment From Danielle - Portland Danielle - Portland : ]  and it's not somethign you have to be concerned about getting on their paws? I know cayenne is bad for them. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:50 Danielle - Portland

10:50

amypennington:  Erin- there are lots of edible flowers, too! Thursday March 18, 2010 10:50 amypennington

10:51

amypennington:  You have to replenish cinnamon every few weeks. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:51 amypennington

10:51

amypennington:  b/c rain and wind will wash away Thursday March 18, 2010 10:51 amypennington

10:51

amypennington:  And I'm always careful to apply very low to the ground, so you don't get a big cinnamon cloud all over your plants! Thursday March 18, 2010 10:51 amypennington

10:52

amypennington:  Danielle - not cinnamon - they won't lurk around in it. Cayenne is another story b/c even if airborne it can be really debilitating - for you and the cat Thursday March 18, 2010 10:52 amypennington

10:52

[Comment From Viv/Seattle Bon Vivant Viv/Seattle Bon Vivant : ]  Hi Amy! I live in a downtown Seattle high rise which means no garden space. What are some of the options for people like me who would like to have an edible garden in the city? I have a large balcony that gets beautiful light and right now sits empty. I would love to grow something out there but worry about soot from street traffic when growing edibles plants and flowers. Thanks! Thursday March 18, 2010 10:52 Viv/Seattle Bon Vivant

10:52

amypennington:  Hi Viv - no no no - don't worry about soot! Thursday March 18, 2010 10:52 amypennington

10:53

amypennington:  You will need only wash your veggies good when they come in - a veg scrub brush and some water is all you need. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:53 amypennington

10:53

[Comment From Erin Erin : ]  Edible perennial flowers too - got a good one for Zone 4-5? I'm happy to plant/replant stuff like bachelor buttons and nasturtium. I am hoping that the lavendar we put in this year will overwinter. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:53 Erin

10:53

amypennington:  I'd start with Lettuces - they are one of the easiest and most economical things to grow at home. You can use a shallow container, and you can plant WAY way more varieties than any store or market would have available. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:53 amypennington

10:54

Kim ODonnel:  It's settled. I'm growing lettuces this year. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:54 Kim ODonnel

10:54

amypennington:  Erin - most flowers will re-seed, so they are not technically perennials. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:54 amypennington

10:55

amypennington:  I LOVE - Nigella for the seed, anise hyssop for the leaves - and of course sage and rosemary flower. Try a tangerine sage. Fab with tomatoes - truly. You'll be totally wow'd. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:55 amypennington

10:55

amypennington:  DO IT, KIM! Thursday March 18, 2010 10:55 amypennington

10:55

Kim ODonnel:  does that include arugula? Thursday March 18, 2010 10:55 Kim ODonnel

10:55

amypennington:  www.seedsofchange.com - a great resource for many kinds Thursday March 18, 2010 10:55 amypennington

10:56

amypennington:  Erin - you can save your nasturtian seeds, too - you do that? Seed saving! Or eat them when they are tender in green in a quick pickle - like a caper. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:56 amypennington

10:56

amypennington:  Arugula, yes! Thursday March 18, 2010 10:56 amypennington

10:56

amypennington:  And in the Pac NW arugula is a great plant to grow right now. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:56 amypennington

10:56

Kim ODonnel:  Ok, I need to get me & Viv on the case. We're doing it. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:56 Kim ODonnel

10:56

amypennington:  Done! Thursday March 18, 2010 10:56 amypennington

10:57

amypennington:  For those in Seattle - I'm leading a little edible container shopping day on the 27th. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:57 amypennington

10:57

amypennington:  Happy to have you come along if there is room in the car - email me! Thursday March 18, 2010 10:57 amypennington

10:57

Kim ODonnel:  ooh. fab. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:57 Kim ODonnel

10:57

amypennington:  There are enough people here that we can fit. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:57 amypennington

10:57

amypennington:  THANK YOU ALL! Thursday March 18, 2010 10:57 amypennington

10:58

amypennington:  What great questions - totally inspired and inspiring! Thursday March 18, 2010 10:58 amypennington

10:58

Kim ODonnel:  Amy, before we close out, could you speak to the reason why you grow your own food? I know it's in your blood, in your soul, but what is it that makes you want to do it? Thursday March 18, 2010 10:58 Kim ODonnel

10:58

[Comment From Danielle - Portland Danielle - Portland : ]  Oh yeah, I've got arugula growing as well as spinach and peas. I heard they were cold hardy and can start early. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:58 Danielle - Portland

10:59

amypennington:  Well, it started out b/c I'm a cook at heart. I cook everything - all my meals and after awhile I got bored with market/grocery produce and wanted to expand my palate. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:59 amypennington

10:59

amypennington:  For instance - salad mixes and bibb lettuce just don't do it for me anymore. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:59 amypennington

10:59

amypennington:  THEN.............. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:59 amypennington

10:59

amypennington:  and now.......I grow my own food b/c it's economical. It connects me to nature. It gets me outside. Thursday March 18, 2010 10:59 amypennington

10:59

amypennington:  And b/c I can - I mean...........why wouldn't you? Thursday March 18, 2010 10:59 amypennington

11:00

[Comment From Erin Erin : ]  I'd like my kids to really know that food can come from the ground - not just from the farm - but from our ground, too. Thursday March 18, 2010 11:00 Erin

11:00

[Comment From redweather redweather : ]  Amy, thanks - inspiring and informative - hope you'll come back! Thursday March 18, 2010 11:00 redweather

11:00

amypennington:  EXACTLY! Thursday March 18, 2010 11:00 amypennington

11:00

amypennington:  It's our duty to inspire and educate the future generations - not to be a total cheeseball Thursday March 18, 2010 11:00 amypennington

11:00

amypennington:  But, it's true. We've made it complicated, and it's really quite simple. Thursday March 18, 2010 11:00 amypennington

11:00

amypennington:  Thanks, RED! Thursday March 18, 2010 11:00 amypennington

11:01

Kim ODonnel:  Thanks everyone and especially to Amy, who is the bomb diggety dirt digger lady. this was GREAT. I'm going to twist Amy's arm for a revisit later in the season. Thursday March 18, 2010 11:01 Kim ODonnel

11:01

[Comment From Erin Erin : ]  Thank you so much! I've got to get outside because there is dirt to play in!! Thursday March 18, 2010 11:01 Erin

11:01

amypennington:  You won't have to twist hard :) Thursday March 18, 2010 11:01 amypennington

11:01

amypennington:  Ciao, all - was a blast! Thursday March 18, 2010 11:01 amypennington

11:01

Kim ODonnel:  YAY. Okay, y'all -- see you next week. Bye!