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Avalon Gardens FarmNanuet, New York
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Plants - SNAP Benefit eligible
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Fall 2024 Winter 25 moving indoors
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Spring - Summer 2024
8 Tomato Plants 1 Roma, 5 Cherokee Purple and 1 Husky Cherry
2 Red Peppers, 1 eggplant, 6 cucumbers and 4 pickling cucumbers
1- Basil 1- Curly Parsley
2 cilantro 1 Italian parsley
2 Red Peppers, 1 eggplant, 6 cucumbers and 4 pickling cucumbers
1- Basil 1- Curly Parsley
2 cilantro 1 Italian parsley
Balcony Tomatoes
Balcony CucumbersBalcony Peppers and Eggplant |
Walkway Front Door TomatoesWalkway other side of railingAlong the walkway |
Flowers
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The Old Farmer's Almanac Vegetable Gardener’s Handbook (Old Farmer's Almanac (Paperback) Common culinary herbs are essential ingredients in various cuisines around the world. Here are some of the most frequently used herbs and how they can elevate your dishes:
For more detailed information on cooking with fresh herbs, you can explore this guide from EatingWell2. The Ultimate Raised Bed & Container Gardening Guide For Beginners: Grow Your Own Vegetables, Herbs, Fruits, and Cut FlowersTrying some indoor sprouts
Plants I will move indoorsSpring and Summer 23Started balcony outdoor garden 4.29.23
2nd level walkway gardenButter Lettuce started from seeds
Burpee Bibb Lettuce planted 3/29/23
Cucumbers seedless
Tomatoes on 2nd level walkway3 Zucchini plants in baskets
Buy Soil for vegetable gardens on AmazonGilmartin Hilltop Garden
Brightly-colored flowers that are tubular tend to produce the most nectar, and are particularly attractive to hummingbirds. These include perennials such as bee balms, columbines, daylilies, and lupines; biennials such as foxgloves and hollyhocks; and many annuals, including cleomes, impatiens, and petunias.
Plants that Attract Hummingbirds | The Old Farmer's Almanac
Urban Agriculture: Learning from the Past to Build a More Resilient Future
In our high-speed, hyperconnected lives, the ancient art of cultivating our own food often seems like a distant memory. The simplicity yet profundity of sowing a seed, lovingly nourishing it, and witnessing its transformative journey into bearing fruit, has become an arcane knowledge. But as the specter of climate change casts its long shadow over us, it becomes imperative, now more than ever, to reignite our bond with the very soil that sustains us and realize the profound potential of urban agriculture. This article, which is developed from my TEDx Talk in partnership with Thought For Food, makes the case for why the past has already taught us why every city needs urban agriculture. A Glimpse into the Past: The Rise of Urban Agriculture Urban agriculture, a term that may sound fresh to some, is actually steeped in a rich and vibrant history stretching back to the cradle of civilization. We often developed our homes cities around local food production sources. Picture the ancient metropolises of Rome, Babylon, and Athens - bustling centers of culture and knowledge, yet also powerhouses thriving on the food supply within and near their city limits. Urban agriculture, born out of sheer necessity, was the cornerstone in transforming these cities into more self-sufficient entities. Far from being an afterthought, this practice of urban farming was deeply woven into the fabric of city planning. The Decline of Food Production KnowledgeHistorically, the majority of the population was involved in food cultivation. In 1840, a staggering 70% of the US population was engaged in farming. Fast forward to today, and that number has dwindled to less than 3%. The rapid technological advancements of the 20th and 21st centuries have made food abundant and easily accessible. As the Industrial Revolution took hold in the 19th century, and after the Green Revolution in the mid-20th century, urban agriculture faced a decline. Rapid urbanization and industrial growth prompted a shift away from small-scale local food production towards centralized agriculture far far away. The resultant disconnect between people and their food source grew, as city dwellers began to rely on distant, large-scale farms for their sustenance. Lessons from the Past: Building a Resilient Food Future Urban agriculture's rich past offers invaluable lessons for our present and future. It underscores the potential of urban spaces to contribute to food security and foster community cohesion. Drawing from this history, we can help cities build their own urban agriculture initiatives. By understanding the unique challenges and opportunities of urban spaces, we can devise of strategies to maximize productivity and foster engagement among community members. As we stand at the crossroads of climate change and food insecurity, let's seize this opportunity to create a resilient food future, guided by the wisdom of our past. The lessons from history are clear: urban agriculture is a viable, resilient method for cultivating food during times of crisis. But how can we harness the power of urban agriculture for a more sustainable food future? Historical events have shown us the resilience and adaptability of urban agriculture: 1. Victory Gardens during WWI & WWII: During these challenging times, countries like the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and Germany promoted the idea of Victory Gardens. These gardens, cultivated in homes, churches, and public parks, played a pivotal role in supplementing food during global shortages. By 1944, an impressive 40% of all US vegetables came from these gardens. 2. Cuba's Urban Farming Revolution: The 1980s saw Cuba heavily dependent on imports for its agricultural needs. But the collapse of the Soviet Union led to a drastic 85% reduction in trade, pushing Cuba to the brink of a food crisis. The solution? Urban agriculture. By 1994, Havana alone boasted over 8,000 city farms, producing half a million tons of food by 1998. 3. Pandemic Resilience: The recent global pandemic highlighted the fragility of our food systems. In Nairobi, lockdowns led residents to turn to urban farming for sustenance, from dairy goats in backyards to vegetable patches in public spaces. Similarly, in Chiang Mai, Thailand, unused lands were transformed into urban farms to support the vulnerable, producing a range of crops from eggplants to bananas. 4. Conflicts and Refugees: Refugees, including those from conflicts such as the Russian invasion of Ukraine, often engage in urban agriculture. Our family and our neighbors, who are Ukrainian refugees, jointly maintain small greenhouses and raised beds at our country house. This not only reduces costs but also strengthens our bond during difficult times. Coming Full Circle: The Revival of Urban Agriculture Today, as we grapple with climate change, food equity, and food insecurity, there is a growing realization of the need to revisit our past. The re-emergence of urban agriculture is a testament to this. Cities across the world are redefining their relationship with food by encouraging residents to grow their own produce, transforming vacant lots into vibrant community gardens, and integrating agriculture into urban planning. Embracing Urban Agriculture Urban agriculture is not a monolithic concept. It ranges from small-scale kitchen gardens to large commercial urban farms, from rooftop beekeeping to hydroponic systems in basements. This diversity allows urban agriculture to adapt to a wide variety of urban landscapes and climates, thereby maximizing its potential for food production. To fully exploit this potential, policymakers, urban planners, and citizens must acknowledge and embrace the various forms of urban agriculture. Urban agriculture requires significant infrastructural investment. This includes the provision of suitable land or space, access to water, energy, and the zoning amendments necessary to integrate innovative agricultural technologies such as vertical farming or aquaponics. Policymakers can support urban agriculture by enacting legislation that promotes its incorporation into urban planning. Financial investment in urban farming infrastructure can not only bolster local economies but also promote food security. Urban agriculture thrives on community participation. From cultivating Victory Gardens to transforming unused lands in Chiang Mai, community engagement has been a driving force behind the success of urban agriculture. Encouraging citizens to participate in urban farming not only fosters a sense of community but also instills a deeper understanding and appreciation of food production. The Modern Urban Agriculture Movement While the past offers inspiration, the present is equally promising. Modern urban agriculture is witnessing a blend of historical farming techniques with cutting-edge technology. Greenhouses, vertical farms, and hydroponic labs are sprouting up close to cities, making food production more efficient and sustainable. Schools are integrating farm labs into their curriculum, ensuring the next generation understands the value of food and its production. With agriculture and technology more connected than ever, urban agriculture is especially exciting for certain youth. a few plants indoors for winter 2023
2.14.2023
Heirloom seeds can yield robust, tastier veggies. Here’s what to know.
“These are unusual times in terms of climate and rainfall,” says Ira Wallace, a worker/owner of the cooperatively managed Southern Exposure Seed Exchange in Mineral, Va., which distributes heirloom and organic seeds. “The genomes of heirloom varieties are more elastic, since they haven’t been bred so finely. So, when a new challenge comes along, there might be a resistance to it in an heirloom variety.”
Top 10 Herbs1. Basil https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Basil
Commonly used in Italian dishes, basil is great for adding flavor to soups and sauces. When cooking, add it towards the end to maintain flavor. When growing, keep soil moist, and water the plant the night before harvest. Pinch or cut off any flowers spikes that form. Harvest basil frequently and it will continue to grow. 2. Cilantro
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Coriander Cilantro is most common in Mexican and Asian dishes. The flavor is strong, so use sparingly, and add more to taste. To harvest, use sharp clean scissors and cut approximately 1/3 of the way down your plant. The plant will continue to grow new leaves. Harvest weekly for continued growth. 3. Dill
A delicious addition to dips, soups, herb butters, salads and fish dishes, dill has the strongest flavor just before flowering occurs. It’s best to harvest only what you need for recipes. Using pruning scissors, cut stems flush with the main stem, so the plant can continue to produce. Harvest often to avoid seed production. 4. Mint
Spearmint is typically used in desserts, teas and jellies, whereas peppermint is generally used for its strong aroma. For a large amount, cut right before flowering – about an inch from the pot. Individual leaves can be harvested at any time. 5. Oregano
Oregano is most common in Italian and Greek dishes; often used in soups, stews, and sauces. Harvest individual leaves from the stem or harvest a long stem with leaves on it. Allow the plant to grow to minimum of 4 inches previous to harvesting. Regular trimming keeps the plant bushier. 6. Parsley (Italian)
Italian Parsley is commonly used in soups, sauces and salads, and reduces the need for salt. It’s generally used to add flavor to dishes, rather than a garnish. Harvest when the leaf stems have three segments. Cut leaves from the outer portion of the plant and leave the inner portions to mature. 7. Parsley (Curly)
Curly Parsley brings a crisp taste to salads, vegetables, and herb butters. It’s most often used as a garnish. Just like the Italian Parsley, cut leaves from the outer portion of the plant and leave the inner portions to mature. 8. Rosemary
Used for poultry, lamb and soups, rosemary has a sweet and resinous flavor. Trim stems to harvest and pull leaves off by hand or use full stems as skewer. Cut stems completely back to a main or side branch 9. Sage
Popular in poultry and meat seasoning, sage is great in many culinary dishes. It’s a staple in stuffing. Using sharp scissors, cut leaves directly off of the plant and harvest as needed. Harvest youngest and most tender leaves for best flavor. 10. Thyme
Thyme can be used in almost any dish, but especially marinades, vegetables, pasta, potatoes, and pizza. For strongest flavor, harvest thyme just before blooming. Snip the top 2/3 of each shoot and avoid cutting into woody section of plant
2nd level walkwaylocated on the walkway on second floor. Tomatoes, eggplant, cucumbers and peppers
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Start your garden with Bonnie Plants Harvest Select plants and raised bed soil, available only at The Home Depot. Along with Bonnie Plants’ $250,000 donation to AmpleHarvest.org, your shared surplus harvest can help give families access to fresh produce. #DonateYourHarvest
Food for Thought
How to start a container garden in 5 simple steps The best vegetables to plant in late summer Finding the Good Growing community; Community gardening projects are feeding more than hungry Student Gardens: Growing on Grounds The Need Bronx food pantry struggling to keep food cool and keep up with demand. Here's what it says it needs. Record heat is set to drive the cost of fruits and vegetables higher One in 11 people went hungry last year. Climate change is a big reason why 
helping-wellnessSome plants that can improve your wellbeing include:
Lavender Known for its stress-relieving qualities. It can slow down the heart rate and lower blood pressure. Snake plant Believed to reduce anxiety, improve respiratory problems, and cure the symptoms of a headache. Chrysanthemum Can brighten any space, bring a sense of joy and calm, and help lessen symptoms of worry and stress. Other plants that can improve your wellbeing include: Golden pothos, Orchid, Aloe vera, Fern, Rosemary, Spider plants, Rubber plants, Peace lilies, English ivy. Indoor plants can improve your wellbeing by: · Boosting oxygen levels · Purifying the air · Filtering out chemicals · Improving mood · Improving focus · Increasing productivity 
Buy Bonnie Plants on AmazonHummingbirds 2023-2022
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The habanero is a hot variety of chili. Unripe habaneros are green, and they color as they mature. The most common color variants are orange and red, but the fruit may also be white, brown, yellow, green, or purple. Typically, a ripe habanero is 2–6 centimetres long. Wikipedia
Scoville scale: 100,000–350,000 SHU Heat: Very hot Origin: The Amazon Species: Capsicum chinense Cultivar: 'Habanero' |
Species - Capsicum annuum
Cultivar - Jalapeño Origin - Mexico Heat Medium Scoville scale - 4,000 to 8,500 SHU https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jalape%C3%B1o
According to the USDA, starting since 2010, California produces the most jalapeños followed by New Mexico and Texas, for a total of 209,800 tonnes (462.5 million pounds) of peppers in 2014. It is difficult to get accurate statistics on chilies and specific chilies as growers are not fond of keeping and sharing such data and reporting agencies often lump all green chilies together, or all hot chilies, with no separation of pod type. In New Mexico in 2002 the crop of jalapeños were worth $3 million at the farm gate and $20 million with processing. China, Peru, Spain, and India are also producers of commercial chilies, including jalapeños. |
Bell Peppers Red & Yellow
The bell pepper (also known as paprika, sweet pepper , pepper, or capsicum /ˈkæpsɪkəm/)is the fruit of plants in the Grossum Group of the species Capsicum annuum. Cultivars of the plant produce fruits in different colors, including red, yellow, orange, green, white, chocolate, candy cane striped, and purple. Bell peppers are sometimes grouped with less pungent chili varieties as "sweet peppers". While they are fruits--botanically classified as berries—they are commonly used as a vegetable ingredient or side dish. The fruits of the Capsicum genus are categorized as chili peppers.
Peppers are native to Mexico, Central America, and northern South America. Pepper seeds were imported to Spain in 1493 and then spread through Europe and Asia. The mild bell pepper cultivar was developed in the 1920s, in Szeged, Hungary.[4] Preferred growing conditions for bell peppers include warm, moist soil in a temperature range of 21 to 29 °C (70 to 84 °F).[5] |
Tischler Garden
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Located in Milstone NJ in Monmouth County 
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Bonnie & AmpleHarvest.org
Our Grow More Feed More initiative with AmpleHarvest.org encourages home gardeners to donate surplus produce to their nearest food pantry. The partnership was formed to help combat food insecurity caused by COVID-19, but the need for fresh, homegrown food among those without it continues to grow, and we’ll continue our commitment long after the pandemic is behind us. Both at the Bonnie Plants corporate office and at our growing stations around the country, we cultivate additional produce to help support local food pantries. Additionally, Bonnie Plants has already committed more than $250,000 to help fight hunger and we continue to donate 5 percent of all BonniePlants.com sales to AmpleHarvest.org.
Our Grow More Feed More initiative with AmpleHarvest.org encourages home gardeners to donate surplus produce to their nearest food pantry. The partnership was formed to help combat food insecurity caused by COVID-19, but the need for fresh, homegrown food among those without it continues to grow, and we’ll continue our commitment long after the pandemic is behind us. Both at the Bonnie Plants corporate office and at our growing stations around the country, we cultivate additional produce to help support local food pantries. Additionally, Bonnie Plants has already committed more than $250,000 to help fight hunger and we continue to donate 5 percent of all BonniePlants.com sales to AmpleHarvest.org.
AmpleHarvest News
Food for ThoughtLow fruit and vegetable intake are killing about 3 million people per year
Hacks To Get Most Nutrition From The Vegetables
Gardening: How to save vegetable seeds for next year
Finding the Good Local community garden provides fresh produce
Church starts community garden for both locals and food bank
Food for Thought Food banks see same food shortages, inflation, and gas prices that clients see
Feed your community by safely donating homegrown fruits, vegetables
Harvesting Health All Summer Long
Finding the Good
Gardening Is Good For Your Mental Health, Research Shows
Growing Together Helps Feed Community
Hacks To Get Most Nutrition From The Vegetables
Gardening: How to save vegetable seeds for next year
Finding the Good Local community garden provides fresh produce
Church starts community garden for both locals and food bank
Food for Thought Food banks see same food shortages, inflation, and gas prices that clients see
Feed your community by safely donating homegrown fruits, vegetables
Harvesting Health All Summer Long
Finding the Good
Gardening Is Good For Your Mental Health, Research Shows
Growing Together Helps Feed Community
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Indoor Garden winter 2022
Balcony Garden May-Oct 2021
I have very strong ties to New Jersey, even though I now live just over the border in Rockland County. I would not want to see the official Nickname of the state be changed away from the " Garden State" Not only so much of the history of the state and its deep connection to food and nourishing large parts of the region and country.
See the controversial history of it's nickname https://www.state.nj.us/nj/about/facts/nickname/ Why is New Jersey Called the Garden State? |
2022 and 2021 Basil Plants
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Avalon Gardens 2020
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Avalon Gardens 2019-2018
Waters View Gardens New City NY
Berkeley Gardens River Edge NJ
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Tomato Varieties Search
Italian Garlic DPO-DOPAglio Bianco Polesanofrom Veneto, Italy (PDO)
Polesano DOP white garlic is grown in Rovigo province in the Veneto region. It has a rounded bulb with a slightly flattened shiny white base. The bulbils which make it up fit perfectly into one another and the tunic around them is pink and white. The garlic is sold in plaits, large plaits, bunches and large bunches or in bags and packs. Every pack bears a label showing the name White Polesano Garlic DOP controlled designation of origin followed by the product's logo. Aglio di Voghiera from Ferrara, Emilia-Romagna, Italy (PDO) Voghiera Garlic DOP is grown in Ferrara province in the Emilia Romagna region. It is made up of white bulbs in a round shape which are flat around the root. Its bulbils vary in shape, size and quantity but are packed closely together. Voghiera Garlic DOP Fresh/Green, Semi-Dry and Dry, Extra and First categories are sold in plaits, extra large plaits, nets, bags, small plaits and single bulbs. Suitable packaging materials are used bearing the product's name followed by the DOP designation. |
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