Pictured here is a stalk of Martian Jewel Corn from Seeds of Change.....This is the type of corn I planted in my garden at the beginning of July. Here it is 30 days later and just beginning to develop the idea of husks! Now, mid August the husks are fully developed. I highly suggest this type of corn for the Julian area.
In the M & M community garden, I planted Japanese Popcorn seeds from a fellow local gardener, Celia, who had been successful with her crop 2 years ago. Since I planted this late on August 1st, it still remains to be seen. I also planted it in our no-till zone, which is still in experimental conditions, having only been planted with legumes and clover last winter. No-tilling to prepare the corn, just a thin layer of compost over the legumes.
In the Lewis garden I planted Silver Queen White hybridized corn which is a mainstream type. It is going strong and about 2-3 ft high. It was planted early July.
By comparing these 3 very different corn within a short distance (not too close to cross pollinate), I am hoping to discern what does best for our area. True, the popcorn was planted later and not with the moon waxing. The popcorn was also at a possible disadvantage with more tenuous soil conditions. The other two were planted in compost bins. The seeds however did come from a proven crop two years earlier. We shall see soon enough what happens.....
The tomatoes are doing well all three gardens with a variety of heirlooms. No ripe ones yet!
Pumpkins and squash are coming on strong which is to be expected in the month of August.
Cheers to all community gardeners out there!
