Sunday, August 9, 2015

La récolte~

















Last fall , mid ~ October I guess..I planted 3 types of garlic..

Bell garlic,named after our friends in Ontario that grow this kind..they had sent us some to taste..in December 2013 I think..then in 20 14..they  sent us some to eat and plant..
I have named it our Belle  garlic:) in my head.

In 2014..I went to a local farm and bought a few kinds of garlic for us..artisanal garlic I call it..I loved every variety..but in the long run preferred their larger varieties..
 I saved a few cloves of Rocambole Mix..  and German White.
German White is the largest.
Every clove I planted..grew..  I have just over 20 bulbs..

next year I hope to double my harvest.
I have enlarged the bed..and will add some to my potager also.
I have added some Red German ...bought at our small local Thursday market and it's a beauty.
One  of my bulbs split..and I decided to try and watercolor the misfit..
I then thought...make tags~For each kind..not that I think I will forget as there are only 3 varieties and the Rocambole has a pink tint to it..the German is biggest and the Belle..e..is the one I have most of~
But I wanted to see it ..loved and named in Rose Cottage where I had hung my bunches to dry..:)
Fresh garlic is delicious and beautiful ..
All cleaned up it shines.
Pristine.And no chemicals..Bio:)
Our little tomatoes are coming to fruition also..notice my hand model?:)
I pop them in my mouth and enjoy just like that,
They are far happier here than the Pineapple tomatoes I am growing..which are not many..and huge..and having a hard time turning red.
I HATE that the squirrels ate my eggplants and peppers and are now snacking on the cherry tomatoes..come on.

The first things I made  with my garlic..( squirrels do not like garlic..)was the marinade for M's birthday chicken brochettes..a recipe she found..
so good..I used fresh garlic..
and the caesar salad dressing for her bday..no raw eggs..this recipe..which I added anchovy paste to.
Great garlic makes a big difference.It's good..
It is so easy to grow..
try it;)
Meanwhile the lilies are at their last hurrah..the echinops are in full global bloom;)
Japanese Anemones ..swaying in the breeze~
But truth be told..things are starting to look prematurely tired.
My peony leaves are changing color..way too soon.
Did you know that you can bake bread in any food safe oven proof vessel?
I made a mini sun-dried tomato,rosemary one in that neat cup M gave me.
Turned out well:)
Most home made breads..  w/ garlic butter..on the grill?
♥
So all this to say..if you like garlic.and have a sunny empty spot somewhere,try and get local garlic although my Bell garlic  is native of 6 hours away..and did super well..
then plant in mid October if your zone is like mine..one clove will give one bulb..
I do have one word of advice..I started worrying about my garlic when we had day after day of torrential downpours..
so the first sunny morning..I harvested..nothing was rotting and I should have waited for a few consecutive dry days..makes cleaning so much easier!

Mid to end of July of the following year..ta-da!♥


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62 comments:

  1. TerrykAugust 9, 2015 at 9:33 PM

    There is nothing like home grown garlic! I grew German extra hardy and they are huge. Each clove equals probably 2-3 from store bought white varieties. Your tags a beautiful too. I would love to add them but don't know where I could put them as the vegetable garden was turned back to a lawn. The tomatoes look great too. Maybe you could put some hot pepper flakes around to keep the squirrels away. BTW I love your roses from your last post. I picked all the wrong roses when I started my garden, none are in bloom here. I noticed golden rod starting to bloom in spots, summer is going too fast!

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    1. La Table De NanaAugust 10, 2015 at 8:24 AM

      Goldenrod..is ABLOOM here too..itflew by!

      Love that german garlic..not planting any small varieties..only nice big juicy ones..hope I hear about your weekned feast;)

      Delete
    2. TerrykAugust 11, 2015 at 7:50 AM

      It was a great success! Jerry had bought a pig roaster from this company, http://www.lacajachina.com/?gclid=CLbQwYr4oMcCFYMYHwodH-kAJw. We bought the original wood model. The pig came from a local farm and Jerry made a Mojo that the farmer injected. Our son in law really did a wonderful job cooking the pig. The day was perfect, sun but not too hot. Blue and white table clothes, mason jars with yellow spider mums on the table. I made my orzo salad and my lemon sugar piggy cookies. They were not perfect (the imprint was not up to par) but everyone thought they were good. Everyone brought something, the kids were in the pool, then Katherine and her cousin dressed up in her princess dresses and played in her princess castle. Nothing like seeing two little barefoot princesses flying across the grass. The big boys played frisbee. So the roasting box is cleaned and back in "the barn" . It was a great day. I think one of your son in laws would love one of those boxes, so would Jacques!

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    3. La Table De NanaAugust 11, 2015 at 11:21 AM

      I was thinking Frédérick reading this..must tell him..they are having their bmt finished..so maybe not this yr:) Wish there was a way to add pics to posts:) Your cookies are adorb!
      Yes..2 princesses flying :)♥
      I can imagine..

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    4. TerrykAugust 11, 2015 at 11:29 AM

      Thanks Monique! Frederick would enjoy this, plant the seed. And he could use some of your garlic in his mojo. Just make sure you have a crowd or order a smaller pig. Ours was 50 lbs dressed about 35 lbs.

      Delete
  2. LindaAugust 9, 2015 at 10:00 PM

    Good evening Monique.....
    I had garlic at the cottage, that my neighbour out there gave me....
    I must plant some this Fall....you have inspired me!
    We eat the tomatoes like that too!
    I clean them up, and put them in a small bowl..grab one EVERYTIME I go into the kitchen!
    Have a great week....
    Cheers!
    Linda :o)

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    1. La Table De NanaAugust 10, 2015 at 8:25 AM

      Do it:) We can harvest same time next year..:)

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    2. LindaAugust 10, 2015 at 9:16 PM

      It's a date♥️

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    3. La Table De NanaAugust 11, 2015 at 4:27 PM

      Holding you to it:)
      Start by finding a locally grown garlic:) Buy a few bulbs..then we are good to go.
      See you in October..and before,:)

      Delete
  3. Kathy WalkerAugust 9, 2015 at 10:21 PM

    I had no idea there were so many different varieties of garlic! I appreciate the information on how to grow it....I have never tried....

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    1. La Table De NanaAugust 10, 2015 at 8:25 AM

      I wonder ..in your zone..how it differs?

      Will read up on it!

      Delete
  4. SarahAugust 10, 2015 at 12:35 AM

    Monique, we love cooking with garlic. I must give this a try. We certainly have sunshine. '-)
    I will investigate and see what I need to do here in central TX.
    Your hand-painted cards are lovely! The perfect touch for labeling.

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    1. La Table De NanaAugust 10, 2015 at 8:26 AM

      So rewarding..it really is..I think you would enjoy having your own sparkling bulbs!

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  5. Gloria BakerAugust 10, 2015 at 1:04 AM

    Thanks God the squirrels don't like garlic:)
    Here are bunnies they eat a lot of plants and flowers!
    Love your posy and your paint id beautiful!
    I love garlic.
    I make the mayonneise with chopped garlic
    And is delicious!:))

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    1. La Table De NanaAugust 10, 2015 at 8:27 AM

      That's how we eat our fries:) I mix garlic and mayo and we dip:)Love that!

      Delete
  6. Marie RaynerAugust 10, 2015 at 4:40 AM

    You have me wanting to grow garlic now Monique. Your garlic is just beautiful and your illustrations even more so. DO you think garlic will grow in containers? I am wondering . . . . Everything it so beautiful and you are right, things are seemingly prematurely dying down, or could it just be that summer was so late starting that we have only just begun to enjoy it and now it is ending? I don't know. Love all that you share! Have a beautiful week. You've gotten mine off to a lovely beginning with your lovely post, as always. xoxo

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    1. Marie RaynerAugust 10, 2015 at 4:41 AM

      PS - I am reading All Fall Down. Simply Cracking read! Thanks for making me aware of it! xoxo

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  7. Marie RaynerAugust 10, 2015 at 4:41 AM

    Oh and Friday Night lights also! ☺

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    1. La Table De NanaAugust 10, 2015 at 8:31 AM

      Marie..one of my daughters and her husband ..they started it..they can't stop eaither..
      Marie..does it pull at your heart strings too?
      I am sure I bought my cowboy boots because of Tamy taylor..only 30 yrs difference;)

      The book.. is an eye opener that anything can happen ..I finally finished it last night;)
      I did read that you can grow garlic in containers..it will look messy at fruition because parts of the tops become brown..a few leaves..

      I am sure you and Todd could grow garlic anywhere;)
      You have so much sun where your patio is..the bulbs are so beautiful.
      Not made in China.;)

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    2. Marie RaynerAugust 11, 2015 at 3:22 AM

      Not made in China is the best part! xoxo

      PS - yes, my heart strings are pulled.

      Delete
  8. Barbara Lilian in FranceAugust 10, 2015 at 4:50 AM

    Congratulations on your garlic, I'm so pleased for you. I remember your post when you were preparing your plot & planting. Loved your painted labels. I can see a hint of C.G. style thrown in your sketch's. You put me to shame, I haven't painted at all this summer.

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  9. Sam Hoffer / My Carolina KitchenAugust 10, 2015 at 6:09 AM

    You have me very interested in homegrown garlic Monique. It's so beautiful and sounds delicious too. I don't think I've ever tasted homegrown garlic. Your cards are so pretty and I love the label on the Caesar salad dressing. It would make a very nice gift. Oh to possess your talent...
    Sam

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    1. La Table De NanaAugust 10, 2015 at 8:34 AM

      I would love to see you grow garlic..if only 5..plant 5 cloves and see if you like..no maintenace at all..no fuss like flowers etc..I am into it♥
      I can't put an outfit together like you :)

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  10. Debbie@Mountain BreathsAugust 10, 2015 at 6:50 AM

    I think I already told you that Joe grows garlic like you do, and I get such a kick out of him looking at it daily. His pride and joy, and the only thing he has ever planted in our garden.
    He harvested a couple weeks ago. I'll show him your illustrations ;o)

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    1. La Table De NanaAugust 10, 2015 at 8:34 AM

      Believe it or not..t's my pride and joy too:) I do remember you telling me..does he get a large harvest?

      Delete
  11. Deana SidneyAugust 10, 2015 at 8:05 AM

    I should try garlic. I am so please with my little tomato in a pot. Gorgeous black tomato that is so sweet and full of flavor. The plant is at the straggly stage but the tomatoes are going full out. It does make such a difference. And with heirlooms at $5 a pound, I am saving a bundle!
    BTW, when I make Caesar, I put the egg in boiling water for 1minute 30 seconds. I put it in the blender with the oil (scraping the cooked outer part of the egg in as well) and it emulsifies beautifully. Although most of the egg is raw, the cooking does mitigate most unwelcome bacteria that has migrated through the shell-- at least that's what someone told me!

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    1. La Table De NanaAugust 10, 2015 at 8:36 AM

      That's a great idea!
      I tend to believe what someone tells me too..you do a lot more that way.cooking wise;)
      Your tomatoes must be beautiful and yes what a $$ saving not to mention the pride and fun;)

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  12. Painting the hamptonsAugust 10, 2015 at 8:45 AM

    Congrats on your beautiful garden crop. I may have to try it. Do you think the deer will ignore it also?

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    1. La Table De NanaAugust 10, 2015 at 9:07 AM

      I don't have deer..but just Googled and it seems..they don't favor garlic;)

      Full sun.. try it..make a beautiful still life and paint it:)

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  13. PennyAugust 10, 2015 at 8:53 AM

    Will have to look for fresh garlic at my Farmers Market since I do not have enough sun to grow it. Love your watercolor! You have captured the subtle but beautiful hues. Your bread looks delicious also. I think I will try your chicken recipe. Sounds great! Thanks Monique for starting my week off on a happy note.

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    1. La Table De NanaAugust 10, 2015 at 9:08 AM

      Thanks Penny..hope you like the chicken..the SMOKE is subtle..so you can add a touch more f you like that.

      Delete
  14. Linda @ Life and LindaAugust 10, 2015 at 9:56 AM

    We love garlic, but I have never planted it. Your instructions have prompted me to try. Living in northern Ca., we shall see what they recommend. I too, didn't know there are so many variations of garlic. The bread looks glorious and I love the saying on the container. Your images are beautiful as always. I am fine, just busy with doctor's appointments.

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    1. La Table De NanaAugust 10, 2015 at 10:10 AM

      I am sorry you are faced with more drs appointments:(
      Life is so much more peaceful without them..isn't it?

      Hope all goes well..

      I am sure you can grow garlic:) I know Gilroy has a huge garlic festival..not sure if that is northern California..
      You have such beautiful land..certainly a spot for garlic somewhere:)

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  15. donna bakerAugust 10, 2015 at 10:11 AM

    I just love your paintings and baked goods. Gorgeous photos. I used to use the Racombole garlic in my canned pickles and it would turn a blue color. Everyone thought the pickles rotten and I had to always explain that it was the purple garlic. I too love garlic and tried to plant some, but the weeds overtook it and I forgot where they were. Going to try them again this fall and mark the spot. Oh, that cup of bread. Nothing can beat that.

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    1. La Table De NanaAugust 10, 2015 at 12:05 PM

      Its funny Donna..I had planted some when we moved here..a bag I had bought..destined for planting ..it nver grew..well it did but it was in a shady spot and as soon as I saw green I pulled it..

      I never read up on it..you have to wait and wait once it is up until many of the leaves turn brown..it was the first thing up in April..and only got pulled July..plus now it's full sun..good luck..I am sure you can grow it beautifully..you must have many areas:)

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  16. Cathy at Wives with KnivesAugust 10, 2015 at 10:20 AM

    Our summer began so early and has been so hot that many things bloomed early and have started to look tired and droopy. In my farmers' market days I tried different garlics and was surprised by their different flavors. Lovely photos as always, Monique.

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    1. La Table De NanaAugust 10, 2015 at 12:06 PM

      It seems ike it has been the shortest smmer ever for gardens..

      yes..I find the tastes vary too:)
      So much fun to have success at something.
      Gives you motivation to plant again!

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  17. SavoringTime in the KitchenAugust 10, 2015 at 10:28 AM

    How I wish I had a sunny spot where I could grow garlic. The only spot I can think of is near the street but I can't get water to it. I tried radishes in pots this year and it was a big bust. Peas and cukes on the fence and my rhubarb in part sun do great. I guess I have to realize I can't have everything :) Beautiful tags you made! The Caesar dressing I make is so similar - from the old, old cooking forum years ago on Garden Web. Mine has Worcestershire, red wine vinegar and Tabasco too. I may have added the Tabasco myself ;) We LOVE it. We are having cherry tomato profusion right now and some big ones ripening too. Hello BLTs :) Trade offs this time of year...great veggies, flowers fading, annuals still going strong, thankfully.

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    1. SavoringTime in the KitchenAugust 10, 2015 at 10:28 AM

      Forgot to say, love the hand model :)

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    2. La Table De NanaAugust 10, 2015 at 12:09 PM

      :)

      You know..I have read that garlic is not a wtaer lover..I would try it near the street and see what nature does..you might be happily surprised.
      I found weeds didn't even grow amidst the garlic..and I don't think it was the scarecrow;)
      I am bad at annuals..so bad. very weird indeed...very weed;)
      I want your recipe:)
      I even thought of adding a raised bed in front of the garage LOL..

      Delete
  18. From the KitchenAugust 10, 2015 at 1:31 PM

    We use a lot of garlic but have never tried growing our own. Now that we've downsized, there isn't any room. Oh those lovely tomato jewels!!

    Best,
    Bonnie

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    1. La Table De NanaAugust 10, 2015 at 2:13 PM

      I know you love tomatoes..Bonnie..took hardly any room for what I grew this year!

      Delete
  19. It's meAugust 10, 2015 at 2:34 PM

    Love from me Ria x

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  20. RosenoisettesAugust 10, 2015 at 3:10 PM

    Que de beaux produits <3
    Mais surtout ces belles brioches / pains de mie :)

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    1. La Table De NanaAugust 11, 2015 at 9:29 AM

      Le pain..et moi..:) Pendant des années..je me suis privée..en modération..tout est bon...

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  21. UnknownAugust 11, 2015 at 9:41 AM

    I can't even imagine how wonderful home grown garlic must be. You are so smart Monique!

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    1. La Table De NanaAugust 11, 2015 at 11:22 AM

      You might enjoy growing garlic Chris! And Scott would love watching it grow taking it's photos;)

      Delete
  22. ParisbreakfastsAugust 11, 2015 at 10:11 AM

    NICE watercolor glazing!!!
    Love garlic yum

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    1. La Table De NanaAugust 11, 2015 at 11:23 AM

      Got a super compliment above;) From Barbara.. reference to you:)TY TY..

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  23. Sketchbook WanderingAugust 11, 2015 at 11:30 AM

    Amazing, amazing, époustouflant, your creations, in the earth, in the kitchen, on paper! Les petites peintures sont exquises!

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  24. Tricia @ Saving room for dessertAugust 11, 2015 at 12:18 PM

    We need to try growing garlic - how wonderful. I cannot imagine the fresh flavor - must be amazing. I have a friend that "cans / preserves" her garlic - which sounds pretty terrific too. Love your cards - so pretty :)

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    1. La Table De NanaAugust 11, 2015 at 12:44 PM

      We are enjoying your relish Tricia..will be talking about it;)

      Delete
  25. La Cuisine d'HeleneAugust 12, 2015 at 10:14 AM

    I never grow garlic before but love it and eat garlic all the time. I make my Ceasar Dressing with no raw eggs also.

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    1. La Table De NanaAugust 12, 2015 at 2:37 PM

      Il faut que tu en fasses pousser Hélène:)Tu as un beau terrain ensoleillé!

      Delete
  26. TannaAugust 12, 2015 at 4:52 PM

    A beautiful harvest of garlic, Monique!! Thank you so much for your kind and encouraging words about the house... I love the way you spoke of your own... a sister spirit for sure. =) blessings and hugs and thank you again ~ t.

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    1. La Table De NanaAugust 12, 2015 at 5:08 PM

      :)
      I hope yours speaks to you that way soon:)
      I can't see it not doing so...

      Delete
  27. EsmeAugust 13, 2015 at 1:12 AM

    Your cherub is gorgeous. How fun that you grew garlic.

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    1. La Table De NanaAugust 13, 2015 at 8:41 AM

      I liked the way the maidenead fern made a shawl on her:) Thanks Esme.

      Delete
  28. katrinaAugust 19, 2015 at 7:06 PM

    Oh, such lovely garlic, Madame Gardener! One of these days when I have a good garden spot, I'll have to try my hand. As always, your watercolored cards are dear.

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  29. La Table De NanaAugust 19, 2015 at 9:45 PM

    Katrina..garlic growing was my most exciting garden happening for 2015.
    Hope you try..so fun.

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