Hoping For An Abundant Yield

Kelly and I have always enjoyed food, especially good food.  To clarify, for us *good food* is that which is fresh and without a lot of fanfare.  Often times we feel that less is more.   

We also really like fresh fruits and vegetables.  When we lived in Chicago, we often frequented the Evanston Farmer's Market and also were members of a local CSA.  Upon relocating to Washington, Kelly and I were anxious to get a garden of our own planted.  Upon learning of our intentions, some friends recommend that we read Michael Pollen's The Omnivore's Dilemma as a catalyst to further cement our commitments to the garden.   

As you might image, life as a Chicago condo dweller did not serve to lay a solid gardening foundation, but nonetheless, last summer we took our initial steps at growing food with - albeit with modest results. 

This year, we've decided to really increase the stakes and approach our garden planning without reservation.  To that end, over the past couple weeks Kelly and I have poured hours into planning and preparing the garden in hopes of a high-yielding crop for 2009.  There is ample opportunity to apply many lessons from last year and also much of the reading we've compiled over the winter.  

One garden project we are especially keen on is our decision to plant a couple varieties of berries - both Raspberry and Tayberry shoots. 

Most people are very familiar with Raspberries, but if you are any thing like Kelly and me, you may not be familiar with the Tayberry - we certainly weren't prior to last summer.  In short, Tayberries are extremely delicious and I would recommend them to anyone (although watch out of the thorns).

Where once yard clutter resided, there is optimism - and hopefully tasty berries to sprinkle atop some home-made ice cream.