Sow the Seeds of Summer

Wild Valley Farms has a growing community of friends in Northern California! 

Gardening in the heat can be tough! Are you frustrated with what to grow on the sunny west coast? Now (early July)  is the perfect time to sow the seeds of those heat-loving vegetables. Tomatoes, peppers, eggplants, and cucumbers thrive in the heat. Think of all the delicious late-summer meals to be made with these vegetables. YUM! Below, we’ll highlight each of these vegetables, the qualities that make them perfect for this time of year, and some great summer recipes. 

Tomatoes

Tomatoes require at least 6 hours of sunshine a day, this is great news for our California gardners! The more solar energy tomatoes receive, the more fruit they produce. However, excessive heat waves are damaging to the growth of this fruit. We suggest planting your tomatoes in an area that receives morning sun.
Check out these gorgeous tomato recipes! We think that caprese salad looks so refreshing. https://www.eatwell101.com/summer-tomato-recipes

Peppers

Peppers do best in 70-90 degree weather, also needing 6-8 hours of sun per day! The best peppers for growing in hot environments are California Wonder and Keystone. In fact, California is responsible for nearly 40% of all USA bell peppers! How great do some steamy fajitas sound for a summer dinner party?
​https://www.cookingclassy.com/sheet-pan-chicken-fajitas/

Eggplants

Eggplants are heat-resistant vegetables, perfect for harvesting in late-summer. They grow quickly, and need a sunny location with rich, well-draining soil. We recommend Globe Eggplants for your warm areas like California! So, any fans of Olive Garden’s Eggplant Parmesan? We’ve got you covered. ;) https://flavorite.net/copycat-olive-garden-eggplant-parmigiana/

​Cucumbers

Ideal temperatures for cucumbers are between 50-95 degrees. They thrive in full-sun and heat! If you’re looking for the best heat-resistant cucumber, try the Olympic or Thunder! Here’s another refreshing summer salad!
​https://www.fivehearthome.com/tomato-cucumber-salad-with-olives-and-feta/

Thanks for reading! Readers in hot, sunny areas- what are your thoughts? Have you had success with any of these vegetables? Let us know!

Check out our products!

https://www.wildvalleyfarms.com/super-compost-tea.html
https://www.wildvalleyfarms.com/wool-pellets.html

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