08/18/2026
This years garden has been both failure and success. For the first time, we lost our ENTIRE bean crop to a fungus spread from the massive amount of rain we had in July. If we had planted earlier like intended, we would’ve probably gotten a decent crop before it got too bad. But unfortunately, with a late planting, it had little to no chance. It was heartbreaking to see, but it’s all part of farming. Some years are just better than others. We also did not have a good crop of cantaloupe. Last year we had so many we couldn’t even give them away. This year we’ve only had two that were salvageable. The rest are burned up and rotten before they’re even ready to be picked. However, it’s always best to focus on what you do have instead of what you don’t have. Unlike most others who have lost their tomato crop, our tomatoes have done fabulous and we have tons and tons ready to be made into sauces. I am so thankful for that. We’ve also had an abundance of Summer squash that still continues to put out. And our okra has just kicked off and is extremely vigorous. Another success is our peppers. They are loaded and doing extremely well. And of course, my butterfly pea blossoms are prolific as ever…. Blooming their heads off. These plants were all from the seeds I saved last year. To those who I sold or gave seeds to I hope yours were successful as well. Our apple trees did extremely well, although the squirrels have taken most of them. Savage little tree rats.  Our muscadine grapes are loaded for the first time and I’m able to start harvesting. This is their second year on these grapes. We planted two more plants this year that are growing down the fence very well. Hopefully they’ll be ready to harvest from next year. 
It’s still too early to see how our sweet potatoes have done although the plants look excellent. We also have a lot of acorn squash, but is not yet ready to harvest. Our onion crop (harvested earlier) was the best we’ve ever had. In fact, for the next few days, I’m gonna be busy trying to get it all put up so that I don’t lose any. Freezing and dehydrating ! Overall, I am pleased with how the season has gone, despite the losses. I hope you have all had a good garden season as well !