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Bean - Southern - California Blackeye
For dried beans, wait until the pod has turned yellow and other colors and beans are then dry. For fresh tasty black-eyed peas, shell seeds out of pod when pod is green or is just barely turning yellow. The large, smooth seed is mostly eaten fresh, but they can also be dried, or the pods can be eaten whole when they are young. Southern peas prefer deep, sandy, and well drained soil. They are very high in protein, low in fat, and high in vitamin B1. The Bean Southern Cowpea California Blackeye # 5, 'Vigna ungiculata', is the most popular southern pea. The California Blackeye # 5 has medium to large cream colored seed with a "black-eye". Plant 1 to 2 weeks after the last average frost date. The plants are upright and semi-spreading with 6 to 12 inch pods produced at the top of the plant. Technically a bean, Southern Peas grow in conditions similar to or slightly warmer and more humid than snap beans. ... details
Sorrel - Common The Sorrel or Common Sorrel, 'Rumex acetosa', is a hardy perennial. The Sorrel leaves have a sharp, lemon/spinach flavor and is one of the earliest spring greens. Sorrel is an underutilized vegetable in the United States and unjustifiably so. The fresh leaves are used by some to soothe canker sores. Once you try Sorrel, it will become as regular a garden plant as spinach. The plant is also called Sour Dock, Herb Patience, and Patience Dock. Plant the Sorrel 2 weeks before the average last frost date. In mild climates, Sorrel can be planted in the fall. Sorrel prefers a moderately acid soil and the soil needs to be kept moist for the best flavor and production. Cut older, yellow leaves off to encourage the young, tender, healthy growth. |
