I added a low tent to the Garden to extend the growing season and to improve growing of heat-loving plants. Also, I increased the use of row covers to get a quicker start on the glowing season.

Low tents provided a very effective way to start bell pepper plants. They developed quickly and began bearing fruit sooner than starting them in the open.

Early winter crops like lettuce and spinach also did best in a low ten. Here's a very nice crop of spinach started in a low tent.

There were more challenges than in the past. By many measures it was a good year:

• I harvested about 2,100 pounds of produce.
• I donated almost 2,000 pounds to two local food banks.
• And there was some left over for family and friends.

It comes as no surprise to me that my body is tired. I was working in the gardens well into October. I am taking time to recuperate.

View a gallery of 2017 photos.