Branchin' Out - growing something NEW!

[canesisters]

I commented about this on another thread but decided to start a new one on the subject.
Are you planting something totally new this year? Not a new variety of something you've grown before, but something you've never tried before?
Last year was my first garden and I never got around to planting the beans - so those will be new to me this year. Also I'll be trying watermelon and some summer squashes.
What about you? What is in your summer plans that is new to you?

 

[Lavender2]

That is my favorite thing about gardening ... trying to grow something different... and that is probably why I have too many flowers!
The list of things I have not tried is getting very short. But, this year I will be growing spinach for the first time. We like to use in salads and soups, and I have no idea why I have not added it to the garden yet. Still researching the different varieties, and hoping to get into the garden early this year.

 

[so lucky]

Lavender, the hardest thing about spinach is the germination. I read somewhere to plant it shallow, water it in and put a board on top of it for about a week. That will keep the moisture in long enough for the seed to sprout. I may try that with at least part of my spinach this year, just to see.
In your area, you should be able to grow it for quite a long time before it bolts. Bloomsdale is an old favorite, and is slow to bolt.

 

[Nyboy]

New for me is starting seeds. I always buy started plants in cell packs.

 

[Smart Red]

I am thinking of trying a grain this year -- not in the raised beds, but in a traditional garden space.

 

[thistlebloom]

Hal and digitS have me getting excited about growing some winter squash.
Dad always grew it, but I never hankered after it and haven't given it garden space before, so it's new to me.
Growing pumpkin before doesn't count right?

 

[Lavender2]

so lucky, Thanks for the tips! I will try that, and look for the Bloomsdale seed.

 

[NwMtGardener]

I planted quinoa in the fall, a first for me. I felt really wrong, putting seed out at that time of year! I never noticed and sprouts...not sure what will happen with that? I'm thinking about trying brussel sprouts this year too...

 

[canesisters]

OHHHH Brussel sprouts!
Going to have to think where I can but a few of those....

 

[Smithyard Farm]

I am gonna try kale and garlic in the fall... but I like everyones ideas so I may have to steal them....