Title: The Bounty of Perennial Edibles: A Story of Resilience and Flavor in a Maine Garden
In John Forti’s Maine garden, the harvest begins long before tomato seedlings can be safely transplanted outside or freshly seed-sown vegetables dare break the surface of the slowly warming soil. With a range of perennial edibles, Mr. Forti covers what he calls “the shoulder seasons” and beyond, without the need for replanting year after year.
These perennial crops, according to Mr. Forti, tell great stories of resilience and were a lifeline in days before supermarkets. They provide sustenance and enjoyment with their delicious taste, offering a glimpse of the vital energy stored underground over winter.
One such perennial favorite in Mr. Forti’s garden is sorrel, known for its lemony leaves that add a citrusy and green flavor to salads, soups, and sauces for fish. The plants keep on giving, with fresh foliage continuing to grow through frost.
Mr. Forti, also known as “The Heirloom Gardener,” has a special relationship with the edible portions of his garden, which he sees as a living history. He shares stories of inherited plants and hand-me-downs that weave narratives as they knit the garden together.
Beyond their culinary use, these perennial edibles also serve ornamental purposes in Mr. Forti’s garden. Rhubarb, hostas, and asparagus not only provide delicious ingredients but also add beauty to the landscape. Native plants like American groundnut and Jerusalem artichoke support pollinators and wildlife while offering unique flavors and textures to dishes.
Edible flowers like violets, chives, and Monarda, along with lovage, add a burst of flavor and color to Mr. Forti’s garden and cuisine. The smooth Solomon’s seal, with its juicy, succulent flowers, and lovage, a perennial celery with a bold taste, are among his favorites.
In Mr. Forti’s garden, every plant has a story to tell, and every harvest is a celebration of resilience, flavor, and the joy of growing your own food. As the season progresses, his garden continues to yield a bounty of stories and flavors, making it a true testament to the power of perennial edibles.
