Our coastal fall and winter weather is moderate and wonderful for gardening. We are still planting for winter, harvesting for the kitchen and making new raised beds. November will remain very busy, rain or shine, as we continue preparations for the winter garden. We will be planting all salad greens, peas, broad beans, garlic and all the brassica family.

The garden staff continues to harvest herbs, flowers, salad greens, and vegetables for the kitchen and soon will be harvesting winter crops such as tuberous nasturtiums, kale, kolrabi, cauliflower, broccoli, leeks, and garlic.

Fall gardening is a time for reflection. Observe what has grown well or looked good in its particular spot. You can make notes about changes you would like to make next spring and additions that will enhance the beauty of your garden or increase the produce you bring into your kitchen. Hopefully, both will happen.

Winter will bring rain, clean up after the frost, if we get one, and we will plan with seed and nursery catalogues. Plan everthing you want to grow then revise your dreams, taking into account the space, time and energy you have and will have during the next growing season. Always look for new plants to grow and eat, and always do it organically.

If you have questions about kitchen gardens, herbs, salad greens, or edible flowers please feel free to email inquiries to me gardens@sookeharbourhouse. Please state where you live, so we can take your climate into consideration.

Thank you.

Byron Cook
Head Gardener