Remnants

These pictures were taken about a week ago. It was the last week of October, before the two heavy, killing frosts. Everything now has officially started it's long winter decay, and I've already sent much of the green seen in these photos to the compost pile. I'm glad I got a few last pictures in before the season ended, even if it was just a fleeting glimpse of the garden's final days.

I had two of these (very large) cinderella pumpkins, which have always been a fovorite of Jen's. Unfortunately they never reached their fully mature coloring, although they are still pretty stunning in their dark, mottled greens.

I may have never mentioned it but I planted hops this year. Of the 4 varieties I planted this one did best. Next year I'll be able to add some home-grown hops to some home-made brews.

The final vestiges of this years tomato onslaught. I just can't say enough good things about Sungold. They were the first to ripen, the last ones left and they just taste so darn good.

I am always impressed by the beauty and virility of the swiss chard. If any plants survived yesterday's frost (haven't checked yet) it would be these. Plus, do any other salad plants look this good?

The Dhalias seemed to, if anything, reach their peak as October ended. Until the frost they remained a brilliant shot of color amidst the browns and greens of fall.

These Pennsylvania Crookneck Squash were the unheralded wonder-kids of this year's garden. This squash pictured is just one of seven or eight that reached full maturity this year. If anything these plants may have been a tad too fertile as the vines stretched on and on, nearly engulfing the entire garden.

A final pumpkin shot. Looking dark and regal perched atop the picnic table. Having not fully ripened there is little usefullness for this squash outside of allowing it to become a beautiful fall sculpture, a reminder of the summer and a promise of the spring.