A little research

It goes a LONG way....

I was JUST getting ready to hit the send button on an order that I was so excited about. But something in the back of my mind told me to double check that order one more time. I sure am glad I did!

This wasn't just any old seed order, no - this is an order of perennial things. Plants that will either replace themselves by multiplication or plants that can either tolerate freezes or die back and regenerate in the spring.

One of the plants I was so happy about getting was this one:

This is the Jerusalem Artichoke. It's actually a sunflower relative. Not related to an artichoke at all. This plant is grown by tuber multiplication. Tubers that are slightly sweet and nutty and can be used in so many ways...raw, fried, seared, boiled, etc. But after a little more research it turns out this particular vegetable while easy to grow and care for has a severe side effect for some people. Let's just say that Chicago wouldn't be the only 'Windy City' if I fed my whole family this veggie as a side dish, Ok? 'Severe Gastronomic Distress" is known to be caused from eating it.

Now, Can I have a moment to talk to you about a serious situation? My stomach and I? We don't get along most days in general. I can't see adding something that is a known culprit for digestive upset. My husband and I? We have daily disagrements on what is deemed 'Appropriate Bathroom Behavior' in front of the little ones. So I'm thinking it's really a *very* VERY* good thing I looked into this little beauty a little more. I am still tempted to grow this gorgeous plant. But, I know if I do I'll also be tempted to try to eat it and I just don't think I should risk that. It could be hazardous to both mine and my husbands health. LOL.

Back to the drawing board. On a good note I found out that Okinawan spinach is *supposed* to grow as a perennial here as well as Cassava, so I may try these over the winter to see. :-)

'Till next time!

Barbie~