Yacons and Fall 11-1-14 and 11-16-14

Is the gardening season all over? It sure does look like it! (11-1-14) 

 Well, the yacon, originally from the Andean Mountains is thriving. Recall from earlier postings that we are after its tubers. (11-1-14) 
One Source: http://smsf-mastergardeners.ucanr.org/Elkus/Growing_Yac%C3%B3n/

The spinach like the yacon, also does not mind the cold. (11-1-14) 

Here is our minor harvest from the first of November. Notice how the zinnias, okra, and a few lone tomatoes are still around. (11-1-14) 

Cold weather has finally knocked back several of our previously thriving plants. The yacons and the zinnias are now done for the season. However, we will leave the yacons in the ground for several more weeks. The ground acts as cold storage. As long as the ground does not freeze, we do not have to worry. (11-16-14)

The broccoli does not look too bad now that the temperatures have dropped. (11-16-14)

Again, we will leave the yacons in the ground for several more weeks. The ground acts as cold storage. As long as the ground does not freeze, the tubers can stay. We only want what is in the soil. (11-16-14)

Our crimson clover cover crop is coming in nicely.  There are many benefits to planting cover crops. (11-16-14)

See this publication to learn more on cover crops for North Carolina:

 http://growingsmallfarms.ces.ncsu.edu/growingsmallfarms-wintercrops/

Sadly, the end has arrived for the zinnias. They attracted beneficial insects and pollinators and brightened many tables over several months. What more could we ask for from only two packets of seeds?  (11-16-14)

See the below link about another farm that also enjoys their zinnias as well:

http://growingsmallfarms.ces.ncsu.edu/growingsmallfarms-perrywinkle6/