Cauliflower (Brassica oleracea var. botrytis) is a member of the species Brassica oleracea, which includes a number of familiar vegetables, like broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, collard greens, kale, kohlrabi and broccolo romanesco. Cauliflower is one of few vegetables that I have always liked, even as a vegetable-averse child, even in its most basic version, boiled […]
vegetables
Posted inLife + Outdoors
Fruit Trees and Mint Patches
As winter wraps us in her chilly embrace, here on the home farm we are totally jazzed about the winter planting season. Cold weather brings plants into dormancy, creating an opportunity to introduce new additions, such as fruit trees and edible shrubs in the mint family (Lamiacea). Winter rainfall generously irrigates and softens the ground […]
Posted inLife + Outdoors
May To-Do List
Ah, can you feel it? Summer is in the air, with the birds tweeting, plants bursting into bloom and that inexorable itch to get out in the garden and plant something — anything! The intersection of fine weather and a little less rain has me dusting off my hori-hori in anticipation of planting all those […]
Posted inLife + Outdoors
April To-Do List
The garden is finally showing real signs of spring, with new leaves unfurling from branches and spring bloomers putting on a show. Though the North Coast is still in a drought, in most years April’s notorious showers and warming temperatures make it the perfect month to plant annual flowers and cold-hardy vegetables. The rain also […]
Posted inEat + Drink
Sandwich Porn
When you name something the “XXX Adults Only Grilled Cheese Sandwich,” you’re making a statement. A reader sent in an email tip about her favorite order at Lost Coast Café and Bakery (468 Main St., Ferndale), and her flustered description of the sandwich read a bit like vintage Penthouse Forum. The first time I ordered […]