North Carolina “Old Farmer’s Almanac” Advice for October 15-21, 2023

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Vegetable Gardening:
It's October, and while the leaves paint a beautiful mosaic in the Tar Heel State, it's a pivotal time for your backyard vegetable plot. Early this week, consider planting garlic and shallots, as their growth will be steady and robust when sown in the cooler days of mid-October. For those with a penchant for greens, it's not too late! Spinach, kale, and collards can be sown now to yield a fresh crop as temperatures drop.

Flower Gardening:
For the green-thumbed enthusiasts who are drawn to color and fragrance, October in North Carolina is a season of preparation and protection. As the days wane shorter, it's the perfect time to divide and replant your perennial flowers. This not only invigorates the plant's growth but also ensures a vibrant display in the coming spring. Don't forget to mulch around your perennials. This provides added protection against any sudden temperature drops and keeps the roots snug.

Astronomy & Weather:
North Carolina's skies will put on a show this week! The Orionid meteor shower, a result of Earth passing through the remnants left by Halley's Comet, will be in its peak. Look towards the constellation Orion, especially in the pre-dawn hours, to catch this celestial spectacle. Also, Venus and Jupiter will be drawing closer in the western skies after sunset, offering a dazzling view to even the most casual observer.

According to the Almanac, this week's North Carolina long-range outlook calls for: "Showers E, sunny W; warm."

It's fascinating how The Old Farmer's Almanac serves as a treasure trove, giving insights not just into natural phenomena but also cultural experiences. Speaking of treasures, if you're in North Carolina and looking for an intriguing place to explore, consider paying a visit to the Historic Oakwood in Raleigh. This 19th-century neighborhood is replete with Victorian-style homes, offering a glimpse into the state's rich history and architectural beauty.

To wrap up our week's insights, let's turn to a notable quote by Thelonious Monk, the legendary jazz pianist born in Rocky Mount, North Carolina: "The piano ain't got no wrong notes." A gentle reminder that there's beauty in every effort, every sound, and every moment, even if it doesn’t go exactly as planned.

Sources:

• The Old Farmer's Almanac
• Historic Oakwood
• Biography of Thelonious Monk