I went and caged/propped/tied up my tomato plants last night. They were growing riotiously, and I think it was keeping the tomatos from ripening, as their lush foliage was shading the ground and keeping it cool – tomatoes like warmth. I changed my mind – I love the adjustable cages. I hope I was not too rough with the plants, bending them this way and that, but they seem relatively flexible. I only bruised a few stems. They should recover. And if not, well, I’ve got plenty of tomatoes, so losing a few is not a big deal.

A guy I met at the garden last night told me that if it gets too cold and I still want tomatoes, I should just uproot the plants and hang them upside down in an attached garage. Apparently the tomatoes will just keep ripening – not as good as if they had ripened on a live plant, but better than supermarket winter tomatoes. It seems like this should work, but I’m not sure – has anyone else tried this?

Anyway, being out in the garden felt so good, I think I just HAVE to plant another round. Which I guess I will have to do tonight.

Beans still producing like mad. I had some last night w/ fleur de sel and fresh ground pepper (and olive oil). Magnifique.

Calendula is also going crazy (as is sage and oregano). Need to harvest calendula this weekend (hopefully).