I can dig it!

Thank you to my friend Alice Doyle of Log House Plants in Eugene, OR. for sending me this New York Times article:

Obama’s to Plant White House Vegetable Garden

By MARIAN BURROS

Published: March 19, 2009

WASHINGTON — On Friday, Michelle Obama will begin digging up a patch of White House lawn to plant a vegetable garden, the first since Eleanor Roosevelt’s victory garden in World War II. There will be no beets (the president doesn’t like them) but arugula will make the cut.

While the organic garden will provide food for the first family’s meals and formal dinners, its most important role, Mrs. Obama said, will be to educate children about healthful, locally grown fruit and vegetables at time when obesity has become a national concern.

I don’t know about you but this is the best news I’ve heard all week – possibly even all month – and a darn appropriate way to spend the first day of SPRING!!!  Read the whole article here.

In a show of solidarity with the First Lady – and to practice my weeding skills in case our Commander in Chief needs help – I’m taking tomorrow off to work in my own garden.  I still have quite a bit of clean up to finish after this crazy winter and I’m itching to plant my Fava beans.

As your trolling nurseries this spring keep your eyes peeled for Tried and True Vegetables. The passionate growers at Log House Plants have selected, grown and even tasted varieties sure to thrive in your specific NW region.  Whether you live in Seattle, out on the Oregon Coast or reside on the other side of the Cascade range, all you have to do is “grab and grow!”  Check out their website for planting tips, recipes, and so many delicious descriptions it sets my little heart racing.  While you’re there, read “Fringe Plants,” an article I wrote for Digger Magazine last year that features Alice and other NW horticultural hotshots.