Welcome to Carl's Quarter-acre
25 years of composting has improved my backyard gardens through the addition of organic matter and its nutrients to the soil
What Grows
Perennials
While some plants and flowers emerge in the same spaces each year, underground rhizomes spread others, such as Shepherd's Crook, into a progression of new areas.
Annuals
Certain flowers seed themselves from year to year to emerge annually as if they were perennials. Seeds are distributed by gravity, wind, and birds that visit the gardens. Common Milkweed is abundant on the property and popular with Monarch Butterflies.
Herbs and Vegetables
The vegetable plots serve as a "Salsa Garden," supplying ingredients for award-winning salsa. The locations of cilantro, garlic, onions and hot pepper plants are rotated each year between a main garden and five raised beds. Basil, rosemary, oregano and other occasionals grow in a formal herb garden bordered by a Boxwood hedge.
Garden Products
Award-winning Salsa
The salsa, popular with friends and associates, has won five awards in state and regional competitions. Typically produced during the months of July through November, its spiciness depends on whichever hot peppers are available at the time of production. The hottest salsa contains hand-cut Cayenne, Habanero and Serrano peppers harvested at the very end of the season.
Pesto
Ingredients that supplement fresh Basil and organic garlic raised in the gardens include Parmigiano Reggiano and Pecorino Romano cheeses, Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Pine Nuts, and salt and pepper.
Sauerkraut
Nearly 200 friends and families enjoy homemade sauerkraut in hopes of good luck in the New Year. Coarse salt and shredded cabbage are the sole ingredients for what has been described as the "best sauerkraut ever." Sauerkraut is also appreciated for its probiotic properties.
Since available garden space is limited, more than 100 heads of cabbage are sourced from local farmers markets.
Photo Gallery
