Growing in Franklin
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Collapse ▲Growing in Franklin Articles
June – Summer Squash
Welcome to summer finally. Each month we will be sharing an article about things you can grow in Franklin County. We also plan to share articles about how to prepare some of the vegetables and fruits that we write about. These monthly articles will provide you with more information about growing in Franklin County. Read more at the below link.
Squash and Zucchini grow in abundance this season of the year. It seems like the more you pick, the more it grows and grows and grows. Having an abundance of squash and zucchini can come with great benefits and there are lots of nutrition benefits and recipes that you can use these vegetables with. Zucchini and squash are often thought of and used as a vegetable; however, both are technically a fruit. Read more at the below link.
Nutritional Value of Squash and Zucchini
July – Eggplant
In this month’s article we are going to look at a member of the nightshade family (the eggplant) that many people may not eat regularly and most do not grow. The plant is kin to such crops as the Irish potato, tomato, tomatillo and pepper. The eggplant is thought to have originated in Asia, and the first record of the vegetable was from the 5th century. Read more at the below link.
Eggplants, also known as aubergines, belong to the nightshade family of plants and are used in many different dishes around the world. There are many varieties that range in size and color. And while eggplants with a deep purple skin are most common, they can be red, green, or even black. Read more at the below link.
August – Okra
In this month’s article we are going to share information about a warm season vegetable crop that is currently in season. Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) is a warm season crop that is a tall upright plant with a hibiscus type flower that originated in Africa. The immature seed pods are the edible part of this plant. Read more at the below link.
Okra is the edible pod of the okra plant. You probably know it best for its soluble fiber content, which creates what is sometimes described as a slimy goo. The gooeyness can be minimized by stir-frying at high heat or cooking in a soup or stew such as gumbo, where the fiber disperses and provides a thickening agent. If you cook okra with an acidic food, such as lemon juice, vinegar, or even tomatoes, it helps to cut down on the slime factor. Read more at the below link.
September – Collard Greens
In this month’s article we are going to share information about a cool season vegetable crop that is currently being planted. Collard Greens are a cool season crop that grow as a loose bouquet rather than a tight “head” like a cabbage. Collard greens are one of the most popular grown vegetables in the South.
Collards are grown during early Spring and Fall because the plant can withstand frosts and light freezes. Set transplants out in early Spring or late Summer. Many people will seed the plants and pull their own bare root transplants or seed them directly in a tray for plug transplants. Place seed in moist soil usually ½ to ¾ inch deep. Read more at the below link.
Collard greens are typically a holiday staple, especially New Year’s Day, but collard greens are a high nutrient vegetable that you can enjoy any time of year. Collard greens are a cruciferous versatile vegetable that is rich in many vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Despite their low calorie count, collard greens contain many important nutrients. Read more at the below link.
Nutritional Value of Collard Greens
April-Tomatoes
Tomato planting season is upon us, leaving gardeners with a pretty big decision to make. The tomato variety you select now will have a huge impact on your future success, but hundreds of different varieties are available. Will you go with hybrids or heirlooms? Determinate or indeterminate? Large or small fruits? Sorting through this confusing array will help you choose the right varieties for your garden. Read more at the below link.
Choosing Tomato Varieties article
Tomatoes contain vitamins A, C, and K. Tomatoes are also a good source of niacin, chromium, and potassium. Vitamin C protects the body from free radicals which destroy the healthy cells in the body. Niacin helps to lower triglyceride, a fat present in our blood. Tomatoes are also rich in lycopene, a compound that gives tomatoes their color. Processed tomato products have higher concentrations of lycopene. Studies show that tomato and tomato product consumption is associated with a reduced risk of:
- Ovarian cancer, especially in premenopausal women
- Digestive tract cancers (mouth, throat, esophagus, pancreas, colon, and rectum)
- Cardiovascular disease
Read more at the below link.
May – Blackberries
Blackberries are just one of many fruits that can be easily produced in the home garden or landscape. One blackberry plant can easily supply 10-15 pounds of fruit over a 3-4 week period. Studies have shown that blackberries can help fight cancer, decrease cardiovascular disease and slow down brain aging.
There are three types of blackberry varieties: erect, semi-trailing and trailing. There are also thorny and thornless blackberry plants. Each type of these varieties perform well in all regions of North Carolina except where temperatures drop below 10 degrees Fahrenheit. Read more at the below link.
Blackberries in the Home Garden
Blackberries are considered a superfood that packs a major nutritional punch along with bright flavor and intense color. Blackberries contain beneficial compounds that may help protect against heart disease, cancer, and diabetes. Blackberries are a source of phytochemicals called anthocyanins, which can protect cells from free radicals. Their deep purple hue increases their antioxidant power. Blackberries are also an excellent source of fiber, vitamin C, and manganese. Read more at the below link.
Nutritional Value of Blackberries
June – Blueberries
Blueberries are a wonderful addition to landscapes and gardens. They have delicate white or pink flowers in the spring, the summer fruit has an attractive sky blue color, and the fall foliage adds great red and yellow colors to the landscape. With the right species and proper soil modifications, blueberries can be grown anywhere in North Carolina. Read more at the below link.
Blueberries in the Home Garden
When it comes to focus and memory, there is no denying the importance of brain health. While several factors influence cognitive function, the foods we eat on a daily basis are a crucial part of keeping our mind sharp. There are many nutrients that can help support brain health-one that is found in fruits and vegetables is anthocyanins. Compared to other commonly consumed fruits, berries are uniquely high in anthocyanins, plant compounds that are responsible for their vibrant blue, red, and purple color. In fact, research shows that anthocyanins present in blueberries (163.3 mg/100 g) may help to improve mild cognitive performance in older adults. Read more at the below link.
July – Watermelons
Watermelons (Citrullus lanatus) are a warm season crop that grows best at average air temperatures between 70 and 85 degrees F. The soil temperature at a 3-4 inch depth should be 60-65 degrees F before the crop is planted. Melon seeds do not germinate well in cold soils.
Watermelon seeds can be planted directly in the garden or transplants can be grown for an early start. Read more at the below link.
Watermelons in the Home Garden
Watermelon, one of summer’s most iconic fruits, is low in calories and rich in water. It’s also an excellent source of vitamins A and C and lycopene while being less acidic than citrus fruits and tomatoes, other well known providers of lycopene and vitamin C. Read more at the below link.
Watermelon Nutrition Facts and Benefits
August – Cucumbers
Did you know that English cucumbers are called “burpless” because their lack of seeds eliminate gas buildup. Generally smaller cucumbers contain fewer and smaller seeds. Popular slicing varieties include Straight 8, Poinsett, Tasty Green and Gemini. Some popular pickling varieties include Gershwin, Supremo, Citadel and Calypso. Read more at the below link.
Growing Cucumbers in the Home Garden
Though commonly thought to be a vegetable, cucumber is a fruit. It’s high in beneficial nutrients, as well as certain plant compounds and antioxidants that may help treat and even prevent some conditions. Cucumbers are also low in calories and contain a good amount of water and soluble fiber, making them ideal for promoting hydration and aiding in weight loss.
Cucumbers Nutrition Facts and Benefits
September – Muscadine Grapes
Muscadine grapes are well adapted to the Piedmont and Coastal Plain of NC, where temperatures rarely fall below 10 degrees F. Muscadines unlike vinifera (bunch) grapes have a high degree of tolerance to pests and diseases. The fruit is very popular to make wine, pies and jellies due to its distinct sweet and fruity aroma. Muscadine Grapes, (Vitis rotundifolia) are often referred to as scuppernongs and are native to the Southeastern United States.
Growing Muscadine Grapes in the Home Garden
Nutritional Benefits of Muscadines(Scuppernong)
The muscadine grape is a nutritional powerhouse. Like many intensely colored fruits, vegetables and berries, the muscadine grape is a rich source of polyphenols. The skins and seeds of muscadine grapes are particularly rich in the polyphenolic compound resveratrol, which has been studied for its anti-oxidant benefits in numerous diseases, including cancer and heart disease. One serving of grapes is about 1/2 cup, or 16 grapes. Muscadines Nutrition Facts and Benefits