Temperatures in central and most of the rest of Iowa are predicted to drop just to freezing or close to it tonight (Wednesday). While some parts of the state have already had a frost, this would be the first state-wide frost.
Southern portions of Iowa and protected urban areas may well be spared frost. But then Thursday, temperatures in central Iowa are predicted to dip into the high 20s-definitely frost territory. So harvest most produce from your garden since frost ruins it (exceptions include parsley, chives, Brussels sprouts, broccoli, cauliflower, kale, spinach, cabbages, and parsnips.) Cut as many annual flowers as possible to bring in for indoor enjoyment. Cover others with sheets to get another week or two from them.
For a more extensive list of what to do right before a frost,
click here.Happy Gardening,
Veronica Lorson Fowler
Bonus Tip: Have a ton of cherry tomatoes you harvested and don't know what to do with 'em? Try roasting. Cut them in half and spread in a large baking dish. Add some chopped garlic, salt, and pepper, and the lightest drizzle of olive oil. Roast in a 400-degree oven for 15 minute or so until they start to break down and exude their juices. Then add a handful of chopped fresh basil. Fantastic tossed with cooked penne or other pasta with lots of freshly grated Parmesian. Yesterday I had these for dinner, spooned hot over chilled slices of fresh mozarella. With crusty bread to sop up the juices (and a glass of red wine), it was one of those meals where you have to restrain yourself from making highly unseemly, low moaning sounds of culinary pleasure.
