The Wilderson Garden

Bob Wilderson explained how his vegetable garden was set up. In Borrego, he stressed the necessity for protecting vegetables from rabbits, mice, squirrels and other critters. His organic garden is fenced with closely meshed wire which extends underground to prevent tunneling. His frame is made of PVC pipes and the garden is gated. He has plans to electrify the top portion of the fence.

Irrigation is drip and hoops are installed over frost sensitive plants, which are covered with lightweight material during cold weather. Peas grow on a net stretched between a PVC frame.

A rototiller is used to turn over earth and two composters provide nutrition for the vegetables. Blood and bone meal plus organic potting soil have been added to the plot. Two chickens provide eggs for them and manure for the garden. He said the chickens stay in Borrego during summertime without any ill effects. (OOH, now, I want chickens. ) He said they lay at least one egg everyday...sometimes, two!!! ( I also noted the high coyote proof fence which enclosed the hens. )

He has come up with a novel way to further keep rabbits from his yard. A bale of alfalfa is left nearby as a summer treat. The rabbits eat the alfalfa instead of nibbling on HIS plants!

Don Goodwin addressed the group and talked about preparation of olives. He passed around samples of olives he had prepared along with the recipe.

We always love going to these meetings and are looking forward to the next at the Roadrunner Nursery!