There have been bountiful harvests of fruit and vegetables over the last few weeks but the zinnias make me smile every time I pass them by. I am enchanted by their bold colors and sturdy stems which seem to arrange themselves. Check a previous post, Zinnias by Valerie Worth where the poet recounts their virtues.

Nectaplums—part plum,, nectarine and peach—began just as we were leaving on vacation last week. We stashed some in the fridge as did a garden friend on our behalf. We’re just now beginning to sort it all and decide end uses. The fruit was new to us last year so I’ll be experimenting with jam, ice cream and combination fruit sauces. Last night I made an apple-nectaplum crisp which was delicious. See a previous post for more info on Nectaplums

The last of the ‘Dorsett Golden’ apples are in and the total is 30 pounds from our four by eight foot espaliered tree. Typically we get a second crop in the fall.

Ever-faithful rhubarb and applesauce make a commendable sauce but frozen strawberry guava puree adds color and flavor enhancement. I also canned applesauce since the chest freezer is full.

‘Emerite’, a filet pole bean from Renee’s Garden is extremely prolific. Through odd circumstances, one plant is weeks ahead of the others planted later. This was a day’s harvest from one plant.

Two over-sized zucchini greeted me after vacation. I passed off one and made Lemon Zucchini Bread with Olive Oil and Thyme. A lemon glaze poured over the bread right when removed from the oven makes lemon lovers happy.

Happy recollections from last week’s camping trip to the Eastern Sierras. The vintage Coleman stove is bullet-proof.

You may enjoy seeing what other garden bloggers harvested last week at Harvest Monday hosted by Dave at Our Happy Acres.

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