Hey everyone,
It’s been a little while since my last garden update, and so much has happened! Today, August 10, 2025, feels like a good moment to check in and share what’s been growing, what’s surprised me, and some of the lessons the garden has taught me lately.
A Burst of Color and Flavor
My dahlias are absolutely showing off this year. The ‘Cafe au Lait’ variety, which I’ve written about before, is living up to its diva reputation with enormous, creamy blooms. They’re truly the stars of the show right now. The gladiolas are also standing tall, adding vertical interest and vibrant pops of color that are just stunning against the green.
On the edible side, the tomatoes are finally hitting their stride. I had a bit of a growth spurt with some Roma plants earlier this summer – they got quite leggy and wide! It was a reminder that giving them plenty of space and support from the start makes a big difference. My basil is also abundant, and I’ve been making pesto almost weekly. It’s amazing how a few plants can provide so much fresh flavor.
Lessons from the Soil
This season has reinforced a few key gardening principles for me.
- Soil Health is Paramount: I’ve been diligent with my compost, and it shows. The plants that have access to that nutrient-rich soil are noticeably healthier and more productive. It’s a slow process, but turning kitchen scraps into garden gold really does pay off.
- Pest Patrol Doesn’t Sleep: My ongoing battle with whatever is eating my greens continues! While I’ve had some successes in deterring pests with natural methods, it’s a constant learning curve. I’ve learned to observe closely and act quickly. It’s not always about eliminating pests entirely, but about finding a balance.
- Embrace the Unexpected: Not everything goes according to plan, and that’s okay. Some plants thrive, others struggle, and some just do their own thing. My first passionflower is a perfect example – it’s a wild, wonderful tangle that I’m just letting do its thing. It’s a beautiful reminder to be flexible and appreciate the garden’s unique character.
What’s Next?
As summer starts to wind down, I’m already thinking about preserving some of this bounty. Canning and fermenting are on my mind. It’s always a rewarding feeling to extend the garden’s harvest into the cooler months.
I’m curious to hear how your gardens are doing! What’s blooming, what have you harvested, and what have you learned this season? Share your updates in the comments below!
Happy gardening,
Elias