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It may sound like the title of a new song, but this dazzler of an eggplant has started coming on strong in my summer garden. Over a half dozen online sources describe Summer Emerald as “living up to its reputation as one of the best-tasting eggplants–firm texture, few seeds, sweet and tasty flesh–perfect for broiling or grilling.” My one little transplant was purchased a few months ago at a local garden center. At the time, I really wasn’t familiar with this variety but was intrigued by the name. Isn’t that a good reason to try something new? 

Eggplant ‘Summer Emerald’ growing in my raised bed

Once those petite little fruits (1” x 8”), with lime-green skin that is never bitter, started making their debut in my garden, I was impressed and ready to crank up the grill. A simple lengthwise cut down the center followed by a light brushing of olive oil was all the preparation needed. As suggested, It only took a few minutes for these dainty little eggplants to cook. We enjoyed our perfectly grilled eggplants alongside a light summer salad. Finally, I must confess that I had never tasted a lime green, grilled eggplant before, but it was so incredibly delicious that the grill will be fired up again for this one!

‘Summer Emerald’ Eggplant harvested from my garden

Left, ‘Summer Emerald’ eggplant cut down the center and ready to be prepped, Right, brushed with Texas Hill Country Blood Orange Olive Oil, Bottom Grilled in Stove Top Skillet 

Perfectly grilled eggplant garnished with freshly clipped lemon thyme, a light dusting of cracked black pepper and a sprinkling of fine gray sea salt

Lemon Thyme in my raised bed

Linda Alexander, Dallas County Master Gardener Class of 2008

Returning from a 5-day trip to Park City, Utah last week, my husband and I weren’t too happy about the Dallas forecast. Discouragement at having to return during the height of summer heat left us agonizing over the cool, crisp air that had filled our time in the mountains.

Upon arrival at the Salt Lake City airport, our wonderful Dallas friends greeted us and immediately suggested a leisurely lunch at The Grand America Hotel near downtown. As promised, lunch on the patio of the Garden Café was a welcoming introduction to our incredible stay. Shortly after lunch, we made our way out to the hotel’s world class gardens which were beautifully dressed in their finest summer attire. A spectacular display of brilliant and colorful blooms filled every inch of garden space. The natural beauty of flowers and plants so artistically arranged was mesmerizing.

Following a relaxing pause as we strolled through the gardens, a short 30 minute drive took us to our final destination, Park City, Utah. At just over 7,500 feet above sea level, this little Wasatch Mountain town is filled with stunning panoramic views. (This was our 8^th consecutive summer to spend time with our friends who enjoy renting a condominium in Park City each year for their summer escape from the blast of Texas heat).

Early the first morning, our hosts took us to a roadside market stand that they hoped would have fresh peaches. Unlike Texas, Utah peaches were just beginning to ripen and become available for purchase along with tables of juicy, red tomatoes and freshly picked summer corn.

Driving around town, individual yards, city parks and medians throughout the Park City landscape were in full bloom. Zinnias, marigolds, cannas,  petunias, geraniums, blue salvia, hollyhocks and goldenrod offered a sprinkling of confetti-like color for everyone to enjoy.

August temperatures in the area hovered around the mid 50’s at night with daytime highs in the upper 80’s with the absence of humidity! Plants and humans alike were soaking up the dreamy climate and the refreshing mountain air. Spending time outdoors couldn’t be more enjoyable in this kind of environment. Hope you will take time to enjoy a visual feast of our mountaintop adventure. Wish we were still there but our invitation to come back in 2025 has already been accepted!

Linda Alexander, Dallas County Master Gardener Class of 2008

May 7, 2024

Annuals, perennials, herbs, peppers, succulents, shrubs, trees, groundcovers, bulbs, houseplants, decorative pots, yard art and so much more available today!

All proceeds go to Dallas County Master Gardener projects. Thank you for your support.

Credit card, check or cash accepted.

Address: Midway Hills Christian Church 
11001 Midway Road 
Dallas, Texas 75229

Ann Lamb, Dallas County Master Gardener, Class of 2005 and picture by Starla Willis, class of 2011

April 19, 2024

If these are the kind of plants and garden pictures you like to see, you will want to save May 7th for our plant sale and May 18th for the Dallas County Master Gardener Garden Tour. All these pictures were taken at The Raincatcher’s Garden last week.

True gardners can’t pass up two things-plant sales and garden tours. As you will see in the information below these pictures, you have the opportunity to make plans for both!

The Raincatacher’s Plant sale is May 7th. Information is right here.

The Dallas County Master Gardener Association 2024 Garden Tour is May 18th . Click here for tickets and information.

Ann Lamb, Dallas County Master Gardener Class of 2005

February 21, 2024

What does it take to keep a garden like The Raincatcher’s Garden producing? Dedicated leadership, hearty volunteers and planning are essential componets. This week Beverly sent out this list from the vegetable patch. It’s inspiring and reminds us of what we can do in our own gardens as spring comes towards us.

Harvest lettuce, spinach, and broccoli;

Hand water the raised beds, corral, and greenhouse (but not the donation garden);

Start sunflower and marigold seeds in trays;

Direct sow climbing nasturtiums near the raised bed trellises;

Start lettuce, spinach, collard greens, and chard seeds outside in the corral after amending with Espoma fertilizer;

Transplant lettuce from greenhouse if ready;

Make melon cages, bring heavy gloves and wire cutters if you have them;

Keep working on the Morgan building and greenhouse.

Ann Lamb, Dallas County Master Gardener Class of 2005 with Beverly Allen, Dallas County Master Gardener Class of 2018