In 2012, Master Gardeners planted heirloom seeds in the garden to mark the 150th anniversary of the USDA, created by President Lincoln.
height formed by planks of oak. Pathways essential for planting, weeding, and harvesting crisscross neatly through and around each individual garden. The perimeter is completely bordered by additional raised gardens with a picket fence surrounding and protecting the entire area. Upon entering the garden one is met with a variety of plants from cucumbers, asparagus and radishes to the unorthodox Egyptian walking onion and fragrant spearmint. Natural resources such as bamboo, twine, and the fence itself are cleverly used to support plants like tomatoes, beans and peas.
Several factors went into the location and construction of these mid-19 th century gardens.“ Typically these gardens would be grown near a stream,” Karen says. Other components such as amount of sunlight, proximity to the home, and a level location were also significant. In Colonial days, German four square gardens were meticulously cared for by the women, who took pride not only in the garden’ s appearance but also its importance for survival. The key feature to ensure growth and proper drainage was the raised beds themselves. Plants such as peas, rhubarb, lettuce, potatoes and onions could be planted
DIG IN!
early in the spring with less fear of seeds being washed away or root rot. Herbs, while certainly used in cooking, were equally as important as herbal home remedies. Settlers grew horehound and sage for aliments like sore throats, flu and colds, while lamb’ s ear was used to assist in healing of cuts and burns.
Sometimes, plants are specifically grown and given to an organization to mark various historical events. To honor the 150 th anniversary of the founding of the United States Department of Agriculture, signed into law by Abraham Lincoln in 1862, the Master Gardeners planted an heirloom line of tomato
The Rural Heritage Museum hosts events throughout the year with Master Gardeners leading activities from“ berry juice painting” for children to gardening tips and conversation with the parents. The annual Spudfest is one of the museum’ s most popular events, and the garden plays a delightful role for the senses and the appetite. Many of the German four-square garden’ s vegetables and herbs are ripe coinciding with the potatoes grown on the museum’ s grounds for this entertaining and educational family friendly event. Taste of the Garden entices visitors to sample treats grown in the German four-square garden, ranging from fresh cut tomatoes, musk melons and squash to various beans and peppers. Period-inspired food made with garden ingredients like herb butter, leek soup and lemon flavored deserts are also available to be sampled.
In October an event dubbed“ Living History” takes visitors on a journey to life in our area from the mid-1800s. Demonstrations from blacksmiths to chair caners and soap makers share how items ranging from tools, furniture and soap were crafted. Master Gardeners demonstrate a critical job of the harvest, the picking and storing of seeds for the following spring crop. Master Gardeners host additional events from crafts and workshops for children to spring planting advice for gardeners of all ages. Visit www. ruralheritagemuseum. org to learn more. seeds named after the president that was introduced by the W. H. Buckbee company in 1923.“ It was our intention to donate the tomatoes grown from these plants to the local food bank, but because the plants were put in so late and the fluctuations in temperature last summer, we didn’ t get any edible fruits or seed saving opportunity,” Karen says.“ Unfortunately, that is a problem when there are continuous days of 90-degree and higher temperatures, then pollen is destroyed before the plant can set fruit.”
But it’ s all part of the learning experience in the garden. Each year in the German four-square garden, various plants“ grow to seed” enabling visitors to view various methods used to preserve the valuable
seeds. The main methods to acquire seeds in olden days was either trading or storing from a crop. Settlers took great care, ensuring the seeds were dried and stored in optimal locations to ensure they survived the winter and enemies like rodents or moisture. Volunteers willing to get their hands dirty planting and maintaining of the garden are gladly welcomed and will learn wonderful timehonored techniques. Plus, Karen shares,“ One of the perks to volunteering at the garden is enjoying the harvest!” §
64 March / April 2013 Hagerstown: The Best of Life in Washington County & Beyond