THE JULY GARDEN: SUMMER GROWTH AND WINTER PLANNING
In July, the vegetable garden at Podere Il Casale is bursting with life and activity.
Many summer crops are at the peak of their growth, while others are being sown or transplanted in preparation for the winter season. It’s a crucial moment: Benito, our garden manager, dedicates his days to plant care, disease and pest prevention, and planning for future crops.
Natural protection is at the heart of our work, using glass, potassium soap against aphids, and copper sulfate (Bordeaux mixture) for fungal protection, always in accordance with organic farming principles.
What are we harvesting from our July garden?
Watermelons: the sweet and refreshing fruit of summer
This year, watermelons faced an aphid attack that slowed their growth, but thanks to Benito’s timely intervention, some fruits are safe! Watermelons, like melons, love sunshine and well-drained soil: we continue to water them regularly, avoiding waterlogging.
Tomatoes: steady and vigorous growth
The tomatoes are doing well, with branches heavy with green fruits. The plants have been tied to bamboo stakes and lightly pruned to promote orderly growth and good light exposure. Water remains essential but is always given in moderation.
Peppers and Eggplants: the first signs of ripening
This year, peppers are slower than tomatoes, but the first red fruits are starting to peek through the green leaves. Eggplants are following suit, with their typical deep purple color.
Autumn Pumpkins: a quiet growth
Pumpkins, which will ripen between September and October, are starting to form their first fruits. They need space and light, so it’s important that they aren’t overshadowed by more invasive crops.
Cabbage Seedlings: ready for transplanting
It’s time to plant the cabbage seedlings to ensure a good harvest in the autumn months.
Planning the Winter Garden
Alongside the daily care of the summer garden, July is also when we plan the winter crops. This is the time to decide where to place cold-season crops – cabbages, savoy cabbages, leeks, and fennel – while respecting crop rotation to preserve soil fertility and prevent diseases. The winter seedlings, already started in the greenhouse, will be transplanted in the coming weeks. Benito prepares the seedbeds with our mature compost, choosing well-exposed areas that are not too sunny during the hottest hours.
July is an intense month, when nature gives its best and demands our full attention. Caring for summer crops and planning for winter ones allows us to ensure the continuity of the garden and bring fresh, high-quality produce to the tables of our Organic Farm Restaurant throughout the year.
