our little garden and heirloom tomatoes

My dad grew up on a farm in Kansas, and although he left and moved to California in his early 20s, his heart was still that of a farm boy.

My dad, siblings, and I planted a fairly large garden in our backyard every Spring . . . tomatoes, peppers, lettuce, strawberries, green beans, and squash. I have so many fond memories of tending our garden with my dad . . . and, of course, reaping the rewards of our care. We were proud little farmers!

My husband and I have talked about building a small garden box for a few years, so that we could plant a garden; but I wanted to wait until I knew that our little ones would be old enough to participate in its care.

~ my little gardeners hard at work ~

I thought we would try a potted garden this year, and depending on its reception and participation, maybe we'll build a garden box next Spring.

We got a head start on our tomato planting when our dear family friend gave us 3 small tomato plants; two heirloom varieties and one sweet cherry tomato plant. She did the hard work for us and researched varieties that are strong, so that we can enjoy a healthy crop. Thanks, Lisa!

I bought 3 large pots and two big bags of dirt. We mixed Miracle Gro's Moisture Control Potting Mix and Miracle Gro's Garden Soil for flowers and vegetables. The first protects from over and under-watering (which is important when you have little ones who like to water their plants to death), and the latter provides nutrition for growing strong plants. It turned out to be a great combination, because our tomato plants have grown 2 feet in 3 weeks! And the best part, we have 6 small cherry tomatoes  . . . and 2 small heirlooms. The kids and I are so excited!

~ our first heirloom tomato ~

Since planting our tomatoes, we've added two varieties of strawberries, and green beans, to our garden.

I'm pleasantly surprised at the ease of caring for a potted garden. The pots are easy to move, as needed . . . and our kids have enjoyed staking claim on their own tomato plant/pot, which makes gardening more fun for them.

When our oldest daughter, Charley, found out that I was going to share photos of our garden with you, she drew this picture to show you how plants grow . . .  from seed to bloom. 

Did you notice the strong roots!?

Next on my planting list . . . HERBS!

Basil, Italian flat leaf parsley, and mint are my favorite herbs to grow in late Spring and Summer.

Speaking of herbs, have you seen, or heard of, a Savour Greek Basil Tree? I can't get enough of this basil topiary. I'm excited to share photos of the two that I bought. I need to finish aging the terra cotta pots that I found for these beauties, and then I'll share them in a post. They'll be a part of my kitchen decor through the Spring & Summer months.

How about you? Will you plant a garden this Spring?

~ my vintage garden book ~

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