Tag: vegetables

Growing Tropical Lettuce aka Indian Lettuce, Lactuca indica

October 3, 2022

I recently distributed seeds of the tropical lettuce species Lactuca indica (sometimes called Indian lettuce), to a number of people. See my previous blog post for general info on the species. Because this plant has a few quirks, here are some tips for growing it. If you are among the people who received seed, consider … More Growing Tropical Lettuce aka Indian Lettuce, Lactuca indica

A new autumn tradition – best flavored pumpkin contests

November 30, 2021

Fall is the most popular season, according to surveys. Something about the shortening days, crisp breezes, and pumpkin spice everything in the stores inspires people to get out doing some autumnal activities. I recently attended an event that deserves to become a new fall tradition, alongside the hayrides, corn maizes, and the holidays people enjoy … More A new autumn tradition – best flavored pumpkin contests

Lagenaria siceraria – a highly productive vegetable for hot, humid climates

October 31, 2019

Here in Florida, the months of June through September offer an ideal testing ground for how well vegetables can tolerate hot, steamy weather. Many common vegetables struggle in the sauna-like conditions, but we’re finding that Lageneria siceria produces food here all summer like a champion. A member of the squash family, Lagenaria is an aggressively … More Lagenaria siceraria – a highly productive vegetable for hot, humid climates

The lettuce that thrives in the steamy heat of a Florida summer: Lactuca indica, Indian lettuce

September 21, 2018

Getting fresh, locally-grown salads is a challenge during the warm months in Florida, and other places with hot, humid weather. There are actually lots of leaf vegetables which thrive in these conditions, but the majority of these tropically-adapted leaf vegetables require cooking. Indian lettuce (Lactuca indica) is a little-known relative of common cultivated lettuce that … More The lettuce that thrives in the steamy heat of a Florida summer: Lactuca indica, Indian lettuce

Golden Crispy Melon

July 13, 2018

I was never a huge fan of melons, until I found one fruit in this group that I really enjoy: Golden Crispy Melon. Lots of fruit enthusiasts really love honeydews and cantaloupes and the like, and although I do find them pleasant, but I don’t get more than lukewarm about those varieties because they all … More Golden Crispy Melon