Category: veggie patch

21 Dec 2024

The Comeback of the Figtree: How One Transplant Turned Into a Mini Orchard

Last year, I made what felt like a bold gardening move. I pulled out a struggling fig tree that had been in the ground, leaving some roots attached, and decided to transplant it into a pot. It was a gamble—figs are resilient, but any transplant comes with risks. Fast forward to today, and that fig tree has not only survived—it has thrived beyond my wildest expectations.

The fig tree now stands a proud four feet tall, radiating health and vitality. Its leaves are lush and green, its branches sturdy and strong. It’s the picture of a happy tree, and I couldn’t be more thrilled with its progress. But that’s not the end of the story. Something unexpected has happened: the original pot has turned into a nursery.

To my surprise, nine additional plants have started sprouting from the same pot. Yes, nine! It’s as if the fig tree’s roots decided to multiply underground, creating a whole family of new trees. I had no idea that my one rescue mission would lead to the beginnings of what could soon become a small fig tree collection.

Why Are Figs So Resilient?

Figs are known for their tenacity and adaptability. Even when transplanted or trimmed back aggressively, their root systems can sprout new growth under the right conditions. This survival instinct is likely what led to my unexpected crop of baby fig plants.

With rich soil, proper drainage, and some consistent watering, figs seem to thrive in containers just as well as they do in the ground. And it’s not uncommon for their roots to produce offshoots when they sense they have the space and nutrients to do so.

Lessons From the Fig Tree

This experience has reminded me of two important lessons in gardening (and life):

1. Never underestimate the power of resilience. Plants, like people, can bounce back in incredible ways when given a second chance.

2. Growth often happens in unexpected ways. My goal was simply to save a tree. I never imagined I’d end up with nine new ones in the process.

If you’re considering growing fig trees or trying to rescue a struggling plant, don’t hesitate to give it a shot. With a bit of patience and care, you might end up with something far greater than you expected—just like I did.

Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have some figs to repot!

Tomatoes, Watermelons, and the Joy of Growing

It’s that wonderful time of year when the garden comes alive, and I couldn’t be more excited about how things are progressing. My tomatoes are thriving, growing vigorously with plenty of little tomatoes already forming alongside an abundance of bright yellow flowers. It’s a sight that every gardener loves—signs of a bountiful harvest ahead!

One special part of the garden this year is my dad’s pointed tomatoes. He affectionately calls them Friendship Borghesi (and simply “pointy tomatoes” for short). True to their name, these heirloom beauties are producing lots of little tomatoes as well, promising a delicious crop. There’s something so satisfying about nurturing these plants and seeing the unique varieties come to life, especially ones with personal significance.

Expanding the Garden: Watermelons

This season, I’ve also ventured into growing watermelons! I planted two in pots and two in the veggie patch, curious to see how they’ll take off in different settings. Growing watermelons feels like an exciting experiment, as they need a bit more space and attention compared to other plants in the garden.

Will the ones in the veggie patch grow faster with more room for their sprawling vines, or will the potted ones surprise me with their compact convenience? Time will tell, and I’m eager to watch their progress.

The Joy of Gardening

What I love most about gardening is how it constantly teaches patience and rewards care. Seeing these plants flourish—whether they’re tomatoes lovingly passed down as a family tradition or watermelons in their experimental phase—brings a deep sense of fulfillment.

Gardening is also a way to connect with family and heritage. My dad’s enthusiasm for his pointy tomatoes has inspired me to keep experimenting and trying new things in the garden. Watching those little green tomatoes grow reminds me how gardening creates not just food but also shared memories and stories.

Looking Ahead

Over the coming weeks, I’ll be keeping a close eye on the garden, watering regularly, and making sure the plants have the nutrients they need. For the tomatoes, I’ll pinch off any suckers to encourage stronger growth and support the vines as the fruit develops. For the watermelons, I’ll focus on proper spacing and keeping the soil consistently moist.

With any luck, I’ll soon be harvesting juicy tomatoes—both round and pointed—and maybe even a watermelon or two! Here’s to the joy of gardening, family traditions, and watching plants grow into something amazing.

Stay tuned for updates from the garden—especially about those pointy tomatoes!

18 Aug 2024

Leen van der Mark

On occasion during my lunch break, I wander into Bunnings’ discount corner, trying to find a bargain. I discovered heaps of discounted bulb packs, and these lovely red ones caught my eye. I planted some in the pots outside the bedroom window. In the other pot, I planted some Dutch iris.

It’s my first time planting bulbs, and it’s pretty easy. I’ll keep you all updated on their progress.

The love of my life has tried to explain the correct pronunciation: “Leen van der Mark”—that’s my best attempt!

Enjoy this freezing wet Sunday, and remember, you can work on your veggie patch in any weather!

New raised garden bed

I decided to make the veggie patch look a bit neater and more professional, so I found myself shopping for a raised garden bed.

I found a Gardenline product at Big W for $70, and it turned out to be of excellent quality and very easy to put together.

I placed some packaging at the bottom, as it will eventually compost instead of ending up in the bin.

My broccoli plants in the pots can sit in there until they’ve grown, and then I’ll use the soil from those pots to fill up the garden bed, ready for tomato and cucumber seedlings.

Broccoli

My beautiful, fresh and healthy broccoli is just about ready to go into the broccoli spaghetti on this beautiful sunny day. Veggie patch anywhere, everyone!

Leen van der Mark

My Leen van der Mark flowers are coming along nicely. The dry spell has ended, and they’re looking quite healthy, although there’s one that’s being a bit stubborn and not growing at all.

It won’t be long now until the flowers bloom.

Rascally Rabbits

Finally, proof! I’ve been wondering why I’m finding diggings, eaten grass, and missing plants—turns out it’s a very, very cute baby rabbit caught red-handed making a comfy burrow behind the new veggie box.

Eat all you want, little one – I’ll even put out some water and carrots for you.

Happy veggie patching everyone and everything! 🙂