News from the Potawot Garden
Strawberry Lemonade With Honey Recipe
- 1 lb Strawberries: fresh, hulled and halved (3-4 cups)
- 1 to 1.5 cups Lemon Juice: freshly squeezed
- 1/2 to 1 cup honey (adjust to taste).
- 5 cups Water: total (separated into 1 cup w/strawberries, 1 warm w/honey and 3 to finish) or sparkling water for fizz.
Preparation: In a blender, combine strawberries, and 1 cup of water, lemon juice, and honey. Mix honey with cup of water before mixing into recipe to ensure it dissolves properly.
Blend: Blend on high for at least 2 minutes or until smooth.
Mix & Chill: Pour into a pitcher and stir in the remaining 3 cups of cold water.
Serve: Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld, then serve over ice.
Summer Gardening on the North Coast
Summer on the North Coast looks a little different than the rest of California. Here in Humboldt and Del Norte counties, June through August can bring cool mornings, coastal fog, warm afternoons inland, and plenty of growing weather for both gardens and landscapes.
Summer vegetables like beans, cucumbers, squash, pumpkins, tomatoes, peppers, and zucchini do well this time of year, especially when planted in areas that get good afternoon sun.
Even though we may not see extreme heat along the coast, plants still need regular watering through the summer months. Check irrigation systems for clogged or broken heads, and water early in the morning when temperatures are cooler. Deep watering helps trees, shrubs, and perennials develop stronger roots, while container plants may dry out faster during warmer inland days.
Leaf litter and garden debris can also play an important role in supporting native pollinators and beneficial insects. If you do clean up leaves or yard trimmings, consider using them as mulch or compost to help retain soil moisture, protect plant roots, and support a healthier garden ecosystem.
Mulch and compost help hold moisture in the soil during dry stretches, while clean, sharp garden tools make summer maintenance easier. Stay ahead of weeds before they spread, and remember that wildfire safety is important throughout Northern California during the summer season.
