Weeds

We are about to hit august with beautiful momentum. August is the month where our stamina is tested. It is also a great month to pick up your neighboring gardener with a helping hand. Continue to weed your beds and your aisles and we will continue to have a gorgeous, enjoyable disease and pest-free garden.

Thanks for continued diligence and perseverance.

This Week

We have made a dent in the front flower bed thanks to the help of our gardeners and the ocean township girl scouts. Looking fresh folks!

Harvest time: friday’s crew please harvest carrots(13, 21, 23), bush beans(13), cucumbers(19), peppers(23). Remember to check out the master gardener bed(28b) As well.

Next Week

Monday priorities: 4 to 7 pm

• Harvest, if needed.
• Prune and trellis tomato.
• Prune pepper suckers.

Friday priorities: 7 to 10 am

• Harvest available vegetables.
• Continue to burlap and mulch shed area.

Vegetable of the Week: Rutabaga & Turnip

Soil Temp for Germ.: 55-75°F
Days to Emergence: 5-17
Seed Depth: 1/4-1/2″
Thin Plants To: 6-8″
Seed Spacing: 1-2″
Row Spacing: 12-16″
Min. Germ.: 80%
Seed Life: 3 years
Seeds per gram: ≈ 265-400
Fertilizer Needs: Low

Brassica rapa (turnips) & Brassica napus (rutabagas) These classic root crops can store long-term in the root cellar or right in the ground for milder regions, providing winter fare with vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that boast a whole range of health benefits. The leafy tops are particularly loaded with carotenoids, B- complex vitamins, and vitamin K.

Culture

• Rutabagas and turnips can tolerate a range of soil types with a slightly acidic pH of 6.0-7.0
• Work in one cup of fertilizer per 10 row feet

Direct Sowing

• Direct sow spring through summer
• Thin promptly when they form 2 true leaves
• Sow turnips July through early-September for a fall/winter crop
• Sow rutabagas in July for a fall/winter crop

Insects & Diseases

• Common insects: See Brassica Insect Information below
• Disease prevention: 5-7 year crop rotation

Harvest & Storage

• Roots are sweetest when small, so pick early
• Turnip greens can be picked when young
• Both root crops are best stored at 36°F and 95% relative humidity

Brassica Insect Information

Aphids: Control aphids with ladybugs or a hard spray of water or Pyrethrin. Also, select varieties that mature later in the season when aphid populations decline.

Cabbage worms, loopers, and root maggots: The first sign of cabbage worms will be off-white butterflies fluttering near the plants. They lay their yellowish-colored eggs on the undersides of leaves, which hatch into caterpillars that can cause severe root and head damage. To control light infestations, spray plants with Bacillus thuringiensis (B.t.). Using Reemay or Summer Insect Barrier can also provide control.

Workday Task List

Weeding

• Perimeter of fence (inside and outside)
• Shed and Compost areas
• Perimeter of communal raised beds
• Pollinator beds outside fenced area

Cleaning and Organizing

• Communal materials
• Shed
• Tools

General Maintenance

• Pulling dead plants and crops
• Repairing Hoses and Irrigation lines
• Repair and maintain rain barrel
• Repairing fence

Seasonal or As needed

• Soil installation
• Woodchip/mulch installation
• Harvesting crops
• Irrigating pollinator beds

Important Message!

We have had plenty of dedicated gardeners that have made this garden flourish. They have been a model of what it takes to be a responsible gardener. Some attributes of a responsible gardener:

1. Weeds must be pulled regularly in garden bed, assigned garden bed, and associated aisles.
2. Follow all the rules regarding our new watering techniques.
3. Only organic methods will be used.

This Week

The chef event was a spectacular success. Chef Moley dazzled on the grill and we all now have more ideas for summer cooking. Thanks for those who attended and to chef Moley!

Friday’s crew should prioritize harvesting carrots and bush beans. Also please be aware that beds 23 (Cucumbers) And 25 (Swiss chard) Have been planted with vegetables.

Next Week

Remember: Friday is now a morning shift. (7 am to 10 am)

Monday Priorities:

• Front flower bed.
• Prune tomato and pepper suckers.

Friday priorities:

• Harvest available vegetables.
• Continue to burlap and mulch shed area.

Vegetable of the Week: Collards

Soil Temp for Germ.: 55-75°F
Days to Emergence: 5-17
Seed Depth: 1/4″
Thin Plants To: 12-24″
Seed Spacing: 1-3″
Row Spacing: 18-36″
Min. Germ.: 80%
Seed Life: 3 years
Seeds per gram: ≈ 250
Fertilizer Needs: Medium

Brassica oleracea, Acephala Group Collards are among the best vegetable sources of vitamin K. This nutrient is said to limit neuronal damage in the brain, aiding in the prevention, or delaying onset of Alzheimer’s disease.

Days to maturity 50 to 60

Culture

• Collards are a cool-season crop that performs best in spring and fall
• In wet climates, ensure adequate plant spacing to reduce pest and disease issues

Direct Sowing

• Cover seed with loose soil, vermiculite, or sifted compost and water evenly
• Sow June—July for a fall crop

Transplanting

• Start indoors 4-6 weeks before anticipated transplant date
• Work in 1/2 cup fertilizer around each plant
• Start May—July for transplanting June—August for a fall crop

Insects & Diseases

• Common insects: See Brassica Insect Information below
• Common diseases: Leaf spot, black rot, fungal diseases, mold, mildew, club root
• Disease prevention: Dispose of diseased material, proper crop rotation of 3-4 years

Harvest & Storage

• Harvest leaves from the bottom up at any size
• Cool weather and frost brings out best flavor
• Store at 36°F and 95% relative humidity

Workday Task List

Weeding

• Perimeter of fence (inside and outside)
• Shed and Compost areas
• Perimeter of communal raised beds
• Pollinator beds outside fenced area

Cleaning and Organizing

• Communal materials
• Shed
• Tools

General Maintenance

• Pulling dead plants and crops
• Repairing Hoses and Irrigation lines
• Repair and maintain rain barrel
• Repairing fence

Seasonal or As needed

• Soil installation
• Woodchip/mulch installation
• Harvesting crops
• Irrigating pollinator beds

Chef event on July 22nd from 6 to 8 pm! Please join us for grilling in the garden with Chef Moley, a us coast guard veteran turned corporate chef. Sign up on our website. The link should bring you to a Monmouth University web page to submit your details.

This Week

We harvested in the rain on Monday and will continue to finish off the potato beds. Our rolling number is 392 pounds donated.

The installation of the new gate is beginning today and the irrigation instructions will be posted. Facilities has begun the installation of the memorial bench and message board.

Next Week

Remember: Friday will now be a morning shift (7 am to 10 am)*

Monday priorities:

• Trellis and prune tomatoes.
• Plant beds 23 and 25.

Friday priorities:

• Deer fence and gate construction.
• Front flower bed (Digging up rock border).

Vegetable of the Week: Pumpkin

Soil Temp for Germ.: 65-85°F
Days to Emergence: 5-10
Seed Depth: 1″
Soil Temp. for Trans.: 60°F
Plant Spacing: 3-4′
Row Spacing: 4-6′
Min. Germ.: 75%
Seed Life: 3 years
Seeds per gram: Listed per variety
Fertilizer Needs: High

Cucurbita spp. This traditional ornament of the autumn harvest is good for much more than jack-o-lanterns and pies. High in fiber and essential minerals, their colorful orange flesh signifies an abundance of the antioxidant beta-carotene.

Days to maturity 95 to 110

Culture

• Pumpkins require uniform irrigation totaling 15-20 inches of water during the growing season
• Bee attractant flowers or beehives will help yields — misshapen or non-developing fruit is often the result of poor pollination

Direct Sowing

• Plant after frost danger when soil warms to 65°F
• Work in shovelful of compost and 1/2 cup fertilizer into hill
• Keep soil evenly moist but not wet as too much moisture causes seed to rot
• Bush varieties: sow 3-4 feet apart
• Vining varieties: sow 4-5 feet apart

Transplanting

• Start indoors 3-4 weeks prior to anticipated transplant date in 4 inch pots
• Work in shovelful of compost and 1/2 cup fertilizer into hill
• Transplant carefully as to not disturb roots

Insects & Diseases

• Common insects: Cucumber beetles and squash bugs
• Common diseases: Various wilts, leaf spots mildews, and various viral diseases
• Disease prevention: 3-4 year crop rotation, and fungicide applications

Harvest & Storage

• Leave on vine until fully mature, rinds should be firm
• Pumpkins can tolerate a light frost, but must be protected from a hard frost
• Dry gourds: Wash gently in a solution of 10 parts water and 1 part bleach, carefully removing all dirt, then store in a warm, dry location
• Store at 55-70°F and 70% relative humidity

Workday Task List

Weeding

• Perimeter of fence (inside and outside)
• Shed and Compost areas
• Perimeter of communal raised beds
• Pollinator beds outside fenced area

Cleaning and Organizing

• Communal materials
• Shed
• Tools

General Maintenance

• Pulling dead plants and crops
• Repairing Hoses and Irrigation lines
• Repair and maintain rain barrel
• Repairing fence

Seasonal or As needed

• Soil installation
• Woodchip/mulch installation
• Harvesting crops
• Irrigating pollinator beds

Workday Task List

Weeding

• Perimeter of fence (inside and outside)
• Shed and Compost areas
• Perimeter of communal raised beds
• Pollinator beds outside fenced area

Cleaning and Organizing

• Communal materials
• Shed
• Tools

General Maintenance

• Pulling dead plants and crops
• Repairing Hoses and Irrigation lines
• Repair and maintain rain barrel
• Repairing fence

Seasonal or As needed

• Soil installation
• Woodchip/mulch installation
• Harvesting crops
• Irrigating pollinator beds

Assigned beds!

It is Important That We Keep Up With Our Plot Assignments. If We Work Together, The Garden Will Maintain Its Pristine Look and More Importantly Keep Pests And Diseases Out Of The Area. Please Stay Diligent About Keeping Your Personal Bed And Assigned Bed Clear Of Weeds. Thank You

This Week

Heat, rain, and wind. We received a triple threat of weather this week. I hope everyone and their plants survived the heavy bursts of rain and wind. Stay diligent in keeping hydrated and protect yourself from the elements. I have added a forum to our website. You must log in to add a question or answer.

Next Week

*Remember: Friday will now be a morning shift (7 am to 10 am)*

Monday priorities:

• Trellis tomatoes.
• Cultivate your assigned beds and aisles.

Friday priorities:

• Deer fence and gate construction.
• Harvest potatoes.

Vegetable of the Week: Mustard

Soil Temp for Germ.: 40-75°F
Days to Emergence: 2-15
Seed Depth: 1/4″
Thin Plants To: 6-18″
Seed Spacing: 1″
Row Spacing: 9-18″
Min. Germ.: 80%
Seed Life: 3 years
Seeds per gram: ≈ 450
Fertilizer Needs: Medium

Days to maturity are calculated from date of direct seeding.

Culture

• Mustard greens are easy crops to grow if planted in early spring or late summer
• Mustards are best directly sown

Direct Sowing

• Make a furrow 6 inches deep and sprinkle 1/2 cup fertilizer per 10 row feet in the bottom of the furrow
• Backfill the furrow and plant the seed
• Thin after second set of true leaves
• Sow July—August for a fall crop

Transplanting

• Start indoors 3-5 weeks before anticipated transplant
• Put out after the danger of hard frost, and use 1/4 cup fertilizer around each plant
• For a fall crop: start July—August for transplanting August—September

Insects & Diseases

• Common insects: Flea beetles
• Insect control: silver mulch, or row covers at planting
• Disease prevention: 5-7 year crop rotation

Workday Task List

Weeding

• Perimeter of fence (inside and outside)
• Shed and Compost areas
• Perimeter of communal raised beds
• Pollinator beds outside fenced area

Cleaning and Organizing

• Communal materials
• Shed
• Tools

General Maintenance

• Pulling dead plants and crops
• Repairing Hoses and Irrigation lines
• Repair and maintain rain barrel
• Repairing fence

Seasonal or As needed

• Soil installation
• Woodchip/mulch installation
• Harvesting crops
• Irrigating pollinator beds

Irrigation news!

We will be posting irrigation directions on each of the hose reels. Please be aware and read them before using the hoses. The expandable hoses must be completely drained of water before wrapping them on the reel. Be aware of any sharp objects that could puncture any hose as well. Take your time and accomplish your task with purpose.

This Week

Dr. Duckett’s lecture, insects in the garden, turned out to be a lovely evening after the heat of the day. Her depth in knowledge of both beneficial and malicious insects is outstanding!

I have added a forum to our website. You must log in to add a question or answer.

Next Week

Workday changes: friday will now be a morning shift (7 am to 10 am)

Workday priorities:

• Cultivate your assigned beds and aisles
• Edge pollination bed outside gate pulling stones above the ground.
• Cardboard and mulch around shed and compost.

Vegetable of the Week: Tomato

Soil Temp for Germ.: 70-90°F
Days to Emergence: 6-14
Seed Depth: 1/4″
Soil Temp. for Trans.: 55°F
Plant Spacing: See below
Row Spacing: 3-4′
Min. Germ.: 80%
Seed Life: 3 years
Seeds per 1/8 gram: ≈ 35-40
Fertilizer Needs: High

Lycopersicon lycopersicum The first ripe, juicy tomato of summer is a delicious milestone of the season for gardeners. Each year we test and evaluate more than 250 tomato varieties to bring you the most flavorful, best performing selections, for every desired use. An array of nutrients and antioxidants including the especially potent lycopene, found in its highest concentration in tomatoes, supports healthy eyesight, cardiovascular health, cancer-fighting capacity, and more.

Culture

• Determinate tomatoes: grow compactly, sprawling laterally, usually do not require staking, and fruit ripens over a short period of time
• Indeterminate tomatoes: grow on long vines, generally require pruning to 1 or 2 leaders that need to be trellised
• Fertile, well drained, raised beds covered with plastic mulch promote early growth and better yields
• Tomatoes are high feeders and will benefit from regular fertilization with Age Old Bloom
• To prevent blossom end rot use a high calcium amendment
• Overwatering can cause fruit to crack

Transplanting

• Sow seeds in trays 6-8 weeks before anticipated transplant date
• Strong light and cooler temperatures (60-70°F) prevent plants from getting leggy
• Fertilize every 10-14 days
• When transplanting work in compost, 1/2 cup of TSC’s Complete fertilizer, and handful of bone meal
• Determinates can be spaced 18-24 inches apart, indeterminates 24-36 inches apart
• Tomatoes can be buried up to the top 2 sets of leaves

Insects & Diseases

• Common insects: Flea beetles and tomato hornworms
• Common diseases: Early and late blight

Harvest & Storage

• Harvest when fully ripe, do not refrigerate for best flavor
• Green fruit should be ripened in a cool, dark area; make sure fruit are not touching

Workday Task List

Weeding

• Perimeter of fence (inside and outside)
• Shed and Compost areas
• Perimeter of communal raised beds
• Pollinator beds outside fenced area

Cleaning and Organizing

• Communal materials
• Shed
• Tools

General Maintenance

• Pulling dead plants and crops
• Repairing Hoses and Irrigation lines
• Repair and maintain rain barrel
• Repairing fence

Seasonal or As needed

• Soil installation
• Woodchip/mulch installation
• Harvesting crops
• Irrigating pollinator beds

How to start your spring garden

Learn how to create a beautiful garden to fill your kitchen with healthy food!

When: March 11th time: 2:30 to 3:30 pm
Where: Calgo Garden’s 462 Adelphia rd, Freehold, NJ 07728
Cost: $28

Updates

March 20th 9 to 11 am

2022 Garden Orientation

This event will be at the garden

Agenda for 2022 orientation

1. New member introductions
2. Bylaws and responsibilities
3. 2022 calendar
4. Work group sign up

Cutting, Splitting, and Hewing

What: learn how farmers used a froe to rive shingles or a broad ax to hew beams

When: February 27th time: 12 – 2:30 pm

Where: historic Longstreet farm 44 Longstreet Road Holmdel, NJ 07733

Cost: free

Updates

2022 applications are now available!

March 20th
9 to 11 am
2022 Garden Orientation
This event will be at the garden

Garden Prep

Installing fresh mushroom compost onto your existing soil will help with nutrient and water retention in the dry days of the summer. Feel free to continue to take from the communal pile. Installing the mushroom compost before you sow/transplant as well as side-dressing your plants will be most beneficial.

NOFA NJ book club

What: online book club that meets quarterly; February: soil science for gardeners, Robert Pavlis

When: February 9th

Time: 7 – 8pm

Where: NOFA NJ website

Cost: free

Updates

2022 applications are continuing to be received.

As a reminder, please keep march 20th 9 to 11 am open for our 2022 garden orientation. This event will be at the garden.

Garden planning

This time of year is fantastic for setting your garden plan. This means choosing seed varieties, writing down planting dates, drawing planting maps, and thinking about crop rotations. A great guide to execute all of these potential aspects is a common crop chart and a personal planting plan. Be sure to remember that these are plans and as the year rolls on you may have to adapt to what this world throws at your garden.

The Casual Birder

What: join a park system naturalist for a morning bird walk. Walk will last around an hour and a half.

When: January 25

Time: 9 am

Where: Seven Presidents Oceanfront Park, meet at the pavilion.

Cost: free

Updates

We are now accepting applications for garden members for the Virginia A. Cory community garden at Monmouth University for the 2022 growing season. This includes existing and new members. Thank you in advance for sending these applications along with a check or money order to the address below. Applications are also available on the garden’s website after you log in.

(Checks should be made out to Monmouth University)

School of Social Work
400 Cedar Avenue
West Long Branch, New Jersey 07764

As a reminder, please keep March 20th 9 to 11 am open for our 2022 garden orientation. This event will be at the garden.

Northeast Organic Farming Association NJ Winter Conference

What: Annual conference discussing a range of agricultural items.

When: January 29-30 time: 9 am – 3 pm

Where: Online cost: $35

Updates

Our 2022 calendar is currently in development. This is a great time to let us know if you would like to learn anything specific about your adventure into gardening. A date to keep in mind that will be required by all new and existing members is March 20th 9 am.