Rosie’s Garden

Today Southern Gardening is at Rosie’s Garden in Brandon, MS where volunteers can develop an appreciation of how food is grown and help to provide fresh produce for those in need. The garden is made up of 36 raised beds arranged as a cross and includes not only vegetable crops but also herbs and flowers to attract pollinators. As I entered the garden, a beautiful red Celosia, also known as Cockscomb caught my eye with its unique twisted, plume-like flowers in a vibrant red color. Its bold and curly texture adds a dynamic and ornamental element to the garden. The Luffa vines growing in the garden are covered with large yellow flowers attracting many pollinators. When immature, luffa gourds can be harvested and eaten like zucchini. Once fully matured and dried, their fibrous interior is used as a natural sponge. Luffa vines can grow up to 30 feet long, so they need strong support like a trellis or fence. On the other side of the garden, a trellis of Japanese long beans are in full production. Also known as yard-long beans or Chinese long beans, they are known for their ability to grow up to 18 inches long and their crisp texture. Okra, tomatoes, eggplants, watermelons, cantaloupes, and many other vegetables are also grown in the garden. If you are ever in Brandon, MS, stop by Rosie’s Garden and see what is growing. I am Eddie Smith, and I will see you next time on Southern Gardening.