There’s something magical about stepping into the garden on a warm summer morning. The air is filled with the hum of bees, the scent of basil and tomatoes wafting through the air, and the vibrant greens and yellows of the summer harvest spilling from every corner and garden bed. This morning, the garden surprised me yet again with its generosity—40 zucchini flowers, freshly picked and delivered to Pickled Sisters Cafe. I had only picked 30 flowers 2 days ago!
A Garden Bursting with Life
Summer is truly a season of abundance here at Yarramanda Farm. The zucchini plants, with their sprawling vines and cheerful blossoms, are thriving in the heat. They’re not alone—tomatoes are ripening on the vine, cucumbers and beans are dangling like jewels, and the herbs are lush and fragrant.
The beauty of a summer garden is not just in its produce but in its energy. The plants seem almost alive with their determination to grow, flourish, and provide. Every harvest feels like a gift, a reminder of the care and effort that went into nurturing this small ecosystem.
This year, we’re excited to be trialing a vertical growing system for our zucchinis and other cucurbits. This method allows the plants to climb upward instead of sprawling across the ground. Not only does it save precious garden space, but it also improves air circulation, reduces pest issues, and makes harvesting easier. Seeing these plants reach for the sky has been fascinating, and so far, the results are promising.
Zucchini Flowers: A Summertime Delicacy
If you’ve never cooked with zucchini flowers, you’re missing out on one of summer’s greatest delicacies. These golden blooms are versatile and delicious, perfect for stuffing with ricotta and herbs, lightly battering and frying, fritters with a twist or even tossing raw into a salad for a pop of colour and flavour.
Picking them is a delicate task. You want to leave some male flowers on the plant for pollination, but the rest can be gently twisted off to enjoy. This morning’s harvest was particularly generous.
A Season to Celebrate
Summer is a time of hard work in the garden, but it’s also a time of celebration. Each day brings new surprises—a glut of cucumbers, a wave of basil ready to be turned into pesto, or a zucchini plant climbing higher on its trellis.
It’s a reminder of why I love this way of life. Growing our food isn’t just about sustenance; it’s about connection—to the earth, the seasons, and the incredible bounty nature provides when we work in harmony with it.
What’s Growing in Your Garden?
I’d love to hear about what’s flourishing in your garden this summer! Are you swimming in tomatoes, up to your ears in cucumbers, or experimenting with new growing techniques? Let’s celebrate the season together—share your stories and recipes in the comments!
If you’re curious about how we grow and use our summer abundance at Yarramanda Farm, follow along on Instagram or Facebook for more garden updates, recipe ideas, and preserving tips.
Here’s to a summer filled with fresh flavors, exciting experiments, and plenty of zucchini flowers! 🌱🌼
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