Maeme's Clover Lawn

Gardens, growing and green things. These are all things our Maeme - as well as twin sister Callie live for. The spring starts with grow lights, leads to summer sun (and weeds) harvesting and perserving for the non-producing seasons. We love all things outdoors in the summer and have a soft spot in our hearts for pollinators. Growing up and even to this day our father is a bee keeper. On the homepage of rasberrys.net check out that little bee on his plump dandelion.

In the Wood River Valley area of Idaho where we are firmly planted, green lawns are abundant. We have fresh, cold water flowing down from the Sawtooth Mountains in the Big Wood River. Most years…but not always. Since 2007, the Wood River Land Trust (a local conservancy organization) has been working with homeowners and businesses alike with the Trout Friendly Program. It’s good for not only for the fish, but also promoting drought tolerant landscaping.

This year our own Maeme started a “clover lawn.” Clover uses less water and requires less maintenance than traditional lawns. The hardy white clover - the species predominantly used for clover lawns today - is actually a primary source for pollinators. In some areas of the world 30-60% of a bee’s nectar comes from this clover type.

If you are interested in learning more about Maeme’s clover lawn in downtown Hailey, Idaho stop into Rasberrys Bistro at 411 East 5th Street under Tribes. She would be happy to share her tips and tricks.

Garden Green Pesto

We love a good classic basil pesto as the next person, but did you know a pesto can be any ingredients? That’s right, any fresh young green(s) can become a beautiful pesto - the combinations are endless really. So next time instead of just eating the vegetable and throwing the tops away, consider creating a small batch of your very own homemade pesto.

The basic proportions of pesto are nuts, greens, cheese and olive oil. You can go old-school and use a mortar and pestle, but a food processor works just as well. Add all ingredients to the bowl of the machine and puree until smooth; add more oil for consistency and season to taste with salt. Pesto can be used right away or stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.

Rasberrys Pesto Inspiration:

• Dill, Parsley, Lemon and Almonds

• Tarragon and Pistachios

• Cilantro with Peanuts and Sesame Oil

• Cilantro with Pecans and Jalapeno

• Basil with Lemon and Almonds

• Carrot Tops

• Spicy Mustard Greens

• Broccoli Leaf

• Beet Greens

Pro Tip: Use fresh grated cheese and toasted nuts, the flavor will be better.

Container Gardening in Sun Valley, Idaho

While we all may not have acres of land, growing is a summer pastime with so many benefits. Containers come in all shapes and sizes and add beauty just as the green things they grow. Clay pots are attractive and sustainable and we mostly use this type. Many veggies flower and are a pretty compliment to non-edibles in a shared container.

A few key considerations when choosing your containers:

• drainage - make sure there are ample holes at the base and drip trays

• substrate - fill your container with compost, soil, gravel, etc. for optimal plant health

• fertilizer - produce and annual crops require lots of food. The smaller the container the more they need.

• sunlight - choose plants for your light conditions. This element is key to the plants thriving.

In our years of backyard gardening in the Hailey, Idaho area, we have found success with the following plants:

• Basil

• Chilis

• Cilantro

• Eggplant

• Kale

• Potatoes

• Rosemary

• Spinach

• Tarragon

• Tomatoes

There are a number of garden stores in the Wood River Valley. They are very knowledgeable and stock a nice assortment of product. Stay tuned for Maeme’s homemade “miracle grow”, she will be making some as the summer gets rolling.

Happy gardening!