TERMINOLOGY TURMOIL

Hi Everyone, Just before the rain, neighborhood discussions turned to crop harvesting. I asked if green onions had been harvested? The replies were surprising. Do you mean scallions? shallots? (of which I did not know have several varieties of their own) or welsh onions?Being diplomatic, I replied "Yes" to all of them. The discussion continued, no one really knew the differences. I volunteered to research the project at the library. "The Onion Book," (yes there is really one) said all the above are names for the green onion. Their favorite was the Welsh Onion. I relayed the info back to the group. They were not receptive to my discoveries. Each liked his own terminology the best. Before they could start arguing again, I asked, "How about those tomatoes?" A new discussion erupted. Who knew vegetables could be an explosive topic of conversation. Think about it! Peas please. Did you mean English or Snow? Vining or bush? Every veggie has a discussion of its own. Next time you are at a quiet party turn the conversation to veggies and let the fun begin .The May meeting of the St Tammany Master Gardeners was special. Mrs Fletcher and her son, Bobby Fletcher Jr, were on hand to present the three scholarships to the recipients. This is all thanks to your hard work at the plant show. Great job everyone. If anyone is interested in the scholarship committee, please let me know. There has been a change in our June meeting date. One week earlier. We will have guests to help us taste our tomatoes. I hope everyone will have at least one tomato ready. Salt, pepper, and mayonaise will be available upon request. Certificates will be awarded in several categories. I hope everyone is enjoying their gardens this summer. Please share your experiences by writing for the newsletter or speaking up at the meetings. Bring your successes as well as defeats for show and tell so we can all learn. Weeds needing to be identified should be brought in also. Crops including blueberries, strawberries, blackberries, potatoes , squashes, cucumbers, beans, and all summer crops are starting their summer debut. Bon Appetit! I hope some of our potluck dishes will come from our gardens. I have beans to pick so I will be back in the garden, aj