{"id":290,"date":"2026-06-03T16:26:38","date_gmt":"2026-06-03T22:26:38","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/extension.colostate.edu\/arapahoe\/?post_type=garden-cpt&#038;p=290"},"modified":"2026-07-31T13:10:07","modified_gmt":"2026-07-31T19:10:07","slug":"littleton-pea-patch-demonstration-garden","status":"publish","type":"garden-cpt","link":"https:\/\/extension.colostate.edu\/arapahoe\/garden\/arapahoe-gardens\/littleton-pea-patch-demonstration-garden\/","title":{"rendered":"Littleton Pea Patch Demonstration Garden"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-bea02a06 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Garden information<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">The&nbsp;Littleton Pea Patch&nbsp;has been a beloved corner of the City of Littleton\u2019s community garden for more than 40 years. We are a plot tended by trained volunteers in the&nbsp;Arapahoe County Master Gardener&nbsp;program, science-backed gardeners who love getting their hands in the soil and sharing what they know.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">Since 2011, our plot has had a single mission: grow the best possible food and donate it freely to local food banks. Along the way, we have built lasting friendships with our fellow Pea Patch gardeners and with the community we serve.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What we grow<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">Everything in the Pea Patch is organically grown because we believe good food should be safe for everyone who eats it. Our volunteers plant and tend a wide variety of vegetables and herbs throughout the season, harvesting regularly to keep produce as fresh as possible for donation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list has-base-font-size\">\n<li>Kale and Swiss chard<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Tomatoes and peppers<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Cucumbers, zucchini and summer squash<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Carrots and other root vegetables<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Rhubarb<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Fresh herbs including basil, tarragon and dill<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Who we feed<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">Every pound we grow goes directly to food banks serving families across our community. Since 2011, we have donated over&nbsp;<strong>25,000 pounds of fresh, organic produce<\/strong>, food that might otherwise be hard to access for neighbors facing food insecurity. We partner with local food banks who distribute produce quickly, ensuring it arrives fresh and nutritious. Our volunteers make regular deliveries throughout the growing season each summer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Our food bank partners<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Parish Pantry at St. Mary\u2019s Catholic Church<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>A long-standing partner in our mission to combat food insecurity, Parish Pantry in Littleton, staffed entirely by volunteers, opens its doors every Monday to provide a steady supply of groceries for neighbors right here in our community.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Life Center Littleton<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Based on South Datura Street in Littleton, the Life Center is a full community resource center serving neighbors facing hardship. Their food bank provides emergency support for individuals and families in short-term need, as well as long-term assistance for seniors, people with disabilities and those managing chronic illness \u2013 all in a warm, welcoming environment.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Backpack Society<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Backpack Society exists for one reason: to make sure no child in our community goes hungry over weekends and school breaks. This 100% volunteer-run nonprofit partners with more than 70 schools across the Littleton, Douglas County and Englewood school districts. During the school year, they help send kids home on Fridays with a bag of six meals and snacks so they can come back to school on Monday ready to learn.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-7e335c23 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--50);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--50)\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-1 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"640\" height=\"522\" data-id=\"295\" src=\"https:\/\/extension.colostate.edu\/arapahoe\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/49\/2026\/06\/pea-patch-4.jpg\" alt=\"A garden bed filled with green plants and yellow flowers, with a sign that reads \u201cThis garden is maintained by Colorado Master Gardener Volunteers.\u201d\" class=\"wp-image-295\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1\" srcset=\"https:\/\/extension.colostate.edu\/arapahoe\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/49\/2026\/06\/pea-patch-4.jpg 640w, https:\/\/extension.colostate.edu\/arapahoe\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/49\/2026\/06\/pea-patch-4.jpg?resize=300,245 300w, https:\/\/extension.colostate.edu\/arapahoe\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/49\/2026\/06\/pea-patch-4.jpg?resize=600,489 600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"487\" height=\"640\" data-id=\"297\" src=\"https:\/\/extension.colostate.edu\/arapahoe\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/49\/2026\/06\/pea-patch-2.jpg\" alt=\"Several volunteers work in raised garden beds planting seedlings, with irrigation lines, trees, and a blue sky in the background.\" class=\"wp-image-297\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1\" srcset=\"https:\/\/extension.colostate.edu\/arapahoe\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/49\/2026\/06\/pea-patch-2.jpg 487w, https:\/\/extension.colostate.edu\/arapahoe\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/49\/2026\/06\/pea-patch-2.jpg?resize=228,300 228w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 487px) 100vw, 487px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"488\" height=\"640\" data-id=\"298\" src=\"https:\/\/extension.colostate.edu\/arapahoe\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/49\/2026\/06\/pea-patch-7.jpg\" alt=\"An orange-and-white cat lies on the ground next to a person\u2019s shoes, rubbing its head against the foot.\" class=\"wp-image-298\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1\" srcset=\"https:\/\/extension.colostate.edu\/arapahoe\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/49\/2026\/06\/pea-patch-7.jpg 488w, https:\/\/extension.colostate.edu\/arapahoe\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/49\/2026\/06\/pea-patch-7.jpg?resize=229,300 229w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 488px) 100vw, 488px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"480\" height=\"640\" data-id=\"299\" src=\"https:\/\/extension.colostate.edu\/arapahoe\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/49\/2026\/06\/pea-patch-6.jpg\" alt=\"Close-up of a yellow grasshopper resting on a bright pink flower in a garden.\" class=\"wp-image-299\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1\" srcset=\"https:\/\/extension.colostate.edu\/arapahoe\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/49\/2026\/06\/pea-patch-6.jpg 480w, https:\/\/extension.colostate.edu\/arapahoe\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/49\/2026\/06\/pea-patch-6.jpg?resize=225,300 225w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"640\" height=\"480\" data-id=\"296\" src=\"https:\/\/extension.colostate.edu\/arapahoe\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/49\/2026\/06\/pea-patch-3.jpg\" alt=\"A group of youth stand together in raised garden beds, each holding a plant or tool in an outdoor garden area.\" class=\"wp-image-296\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1\" srcset=\"https:\/\/extension.colostate.edu\/arapahoe\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/49\/2026\/06\/pea-patch-3.jpg 640w, https:\/\/extension.colostate.edu\/arapahoe\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/49\/2026\/06\/pea-patch-3.jpg?resize=300,225 300w, https:\/\/extension.colostate.edu\/arapahoe\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/49\/2026\/06\/pea-patch-3.jpg?resize=600,450 600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"640\" height=\"480\" data-id=\"300\" src=\"https:\/\/extension.colostate.edu\/arapahoe\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/49\/2026\/06\/pea-patch-5.jpg\" alt=\"A group of youth and adults work together building and planting raised garden beds, with tools and materials spread around the area.\" class=\"wp-image-300\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1\" srcset=\"https:\/\/extension.colostate.edu\/arapahoe\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/49\/2026\/06\/pea-patch-5.jpg 640w, https:\/\/extension.colostate.edu\/arapahoe\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/49\/2026\/06\/pea-patch-5.jpg?resize=300,225 300w, https:\/\/extension.colostate.edu\/arapahoe\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/49\/2026\/06\/pea-patch-5.jpg?resize=600,450 600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-bea02a06 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\"><strong>Pea Patch Dispatch<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"663\" width=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/extension.colostate.edu\/arapahoe\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/49\/2026\/07\/summer.jpg?w=1024\" alt=\"graphic representing summer with sun, bee, dragonfly and sunflowers\" class=\"wp-image-8184\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1.5445671428033017;object-fit:cover;width:430px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/extension.colostate.edu\/arapahoe\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/49\/2026\/07\/summer.jpg 1950w, https:\/\/extension.colostate.edu\/arapahoe\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/49\/2026\/07\/summer.jpg?resize=300,194 300w, https:\/\/extension.colostate.edu\/arapahoe\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/49\/2026\/07\/summer.jpg?resize=768,497 768w, https:\/\/extension.colostate.edu\/arapahoe\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/49\/2026\/07\/summer.jpg?resize=1024,663 1024w, https:\/\/extension.colostate.edu\/arapahoe\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/49\/2026\/07\/summer.jpg?resize=1536,995 1536w, https:\/\/extension.colostate.edu\/arapahoe\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/49\/2026\/07\/summer.jpg?resize=1400,907 1400w, https:\/\/extension.colostate.edu\/arapahoe\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/49\/2026\/07\/summer.jpg?resize=600,389 600w, https:\/\/extension.colostate.edu\/arapahoe\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/49\/2026\/07\/summer.jpg?resize=1568,1016 1568w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:29px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center is-style-accent-border has-white-color has-accent-6-background-color has-text-color has-background has-link-color wp-elements-e7c15589360ec5ed1ee379580c4ec1e2\"><strong>Donation pick ups on Tuesdays and Thursdays by 10:00 AM and Sundays by 1:00 PM.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-accent-8-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-e60aa027b264c59602f35a43d178cb44\"><strong>August 8 &#8211; Mark Your Calendar<\/strong><br><strong>Gardens of Distinction Tour &#8211; 8:00 am to 2:00 pm<\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:33.33%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"1024\" width=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/extension.colostate.edu\/arapahoe\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/49\/2026\/07\/Watercolour-Logo-2.png?w=1024\" alt=\"logo for garden tour\" class=\"wp-image-8186\" srcset=\"https:\/\/extension.colostate.edu\/arapahoe\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/49\/2026\/07\/Watercolour-Logo-2.png 2000w, https:\/\/extension.colostate.edu\/arapahoe\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/49\/2026\/07\/Watercolour-Logo-2.png?resize=150,150 150w, https:\/\/extension.colostate.edu\/arapahoe\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/49\/2026\/07\/Watercolour-Logo-2.png?resize=300,300 300w, https:\/\/extension.colostate.edu\/arapahoe\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/49\/2026\/07\/Watercolour-Logo-2.png?resize=768,768 768w, https:\/\/extension.colostate.edu\/arapahoe\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/49\/2026\/07\/Watercolour-Logo-2.png?resize=1024,1024 1024w, https:\/\/extension.colostate.edu\/arapahoe\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/49\/2026\/07\/Watercolour-Logo-2.png?resize=1536,1536 1536w, https:\/\/extension.colostate.edu\/arapahoe\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/49\/2026\/07\/Watercolour-Logo-2.png?resize=1400,1400 1400w, https:\/\/extension.colostate.edu\/arapahoe\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/49\/2026\/07\/Watercolour-Logo-2.png?resize=600,600 600w, https:\/\/extension.colostate.edu\/arapahoe\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/49\/2026\/07\/Watercolour-Logo-2.png?resize=1568,1568 1568w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\">\n<p>Join the Arapahoe County Extension for a fun, self-guided tour of eight distinctive demonstration gardens tended by Arapahoe County Master Gardener volunteers. It is guaranteed to inspire your green thumb. Explore any or all of the gardens at your own pace, engage with passionate Master Gardeners and discover unique learning opportunities at every garden stop.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>At each garden, receive a free gift and enter a drawing for a grand prize worth $300. Each garden you visit increases your chances of winning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/extension.colostate.edu\/event\/gardens-of-distinction\/\"><strong>Register<\/strong><\/a> today to receive the tour guide and map, then get ready for an enriching day!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading is-style-default has-accent-5-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-5fa2059d3d7c246d68569bdc3a6e5af4\"><strong>DON\u2019T MISS POLLINATORS GALORE!<\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-bea02a06 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-2 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"351\" height=\"468\" data-id=\"8188\" src=\"https:\/\/extension.colostate.edu\/arapahoe\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/49\/2026\/07\/bumblebeeonconeflower.jpg\" alt=\"bumblebee on purple coneflower\" class=\"wp-image-8188\" srcset=\"https:\/\/extension.colostate.edu\/arapahoe\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/49\/2026\/07\/bumblebeeonconeflower.jpg 351w, https:\/\/extension.colostate.edu\/arapahoe\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/49\/2026\/07\/bumblebeeonconeflower.jpg?resize=225,300 225w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 351px) 100vw, 351px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"468\" height=\"351\" data-id=\"8187\" src=\"https:\/\/extension.colostate.edu\/arapahoe\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/49\/2026\/07\/swallowtailonlilac.jpg\" alt=\"swallowtail butterfly visiting lilac blossoms\" class=\"wp-image-8187\" srcset=\"https:\/\/extension.colostate.edu\/arapahoe\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/49\/2026\/07\/swallowtailonlilac.jpg 468w, https:\/\/extension.colostate.edu\/arapahoe\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/49\/2026\/07\/swallowtailonlilac.jpg?resize=300,225 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 468px) 100vw, 468px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Left, bumble bee pollinating a coneflower. Photo: feitzfotos from Pixabay. Right, swallowtail butterfly visiting lilac blossoms. Photo: mbc-16 from Pixabay<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>There\u2019s more to pollinators than butterflies and bees. Join the Master Gardeners at the Pea Patch <strong>August 8 at 10:00 am<\/strong> for an informative talk about the pollinators you see (and maybe some you\u2019ve missed) visiting the Pea Patch Garden and why they\u2019re essential to our gardening success. See you there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading is-style-default has-accent-6-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-fed1b5f3619a71f1fec9272cca9fe6a9\"><strong>When To Pick Your Garden Goodies<\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p>You\u2019ve dug and prepared the soil, you\u2019ve planted the seeds, you\u2019ve watered and fertilized and now, finally, you can enjoy the fruits of your labor. But it can be tricky to know the optimal time to harvest those veggies and the best way to store them. Utah State University has <a href=\"https:\/\/extension.usu.edu\/yardandgarden\/research\/harvest-and-storage-of-vegetables-and-fruits\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>terrific info<\/strong><\/a> ensuring you get maximum bliss from your garden.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"468\" height=\"320\" src=\"https:\/\/extension.colostate.edu\/arapahoe\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/49\/2026\/07\/gardenbounty.jpg\" alt=\"basket filled with a colorful assortment of fresh garden vegetables\" class=\"wp-image-8189\" srcset=\"https:\/\/extension.colostate.edu\/arapahoe\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/49\/2026\/07\/gardenbounty.jpg 468w, https:\/\/extension.colostate.edu\/arapahoe\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/49\/2026\/07\/gardenbounty.jpg?resize=300,205 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 468px) 100vw, 468px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>Garden bounty, Photo: congerdesign from Pixabay<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:21px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"is-style-highlight-heading\"><strong>Mulching the Vegetable Garden<\/strong><\/span><\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p>It\u2019s no news to anyone that it has been a hot, dry summer so far. There are many benefits to mulching your vegetable garden: reduces water evaporation, stabilizes soil moisture, helps prevent weeds and, in some cases, extends the growing season. But, when it comes to the vegetable garden, not all mulches are created equal. Let\u2019s sort the good from the not so great.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Grass clippings make a terrific mulch but only in thin layers up to 1\/4\u201d thick. Existing clippings should be dry before adding more. Don\u2019t use clippings that have been treated with herbicides or pesticides in the last month. A couple sheets of newspaper under clippings help prevent weeds. Don\u2019t use more than a couple sheets of newspaper or a nitrogen imbalance in the soil can occur.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Certified weed-free straw, compost, leaf mold and even coconut coir are great options and can be tilled into the soil in the fall as an amendment. Carefully check the source of any straw before you purchase to ensure it doesn\u2019t come from a field that was treated with herbicides, which could carry over into your garden. Be sure to rinse coconut coir before use to remove any salts that might impact your plants.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-3 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"588\" height=\"461\" data-id=\"8190\" src=\"https:\/\/extension.colostate.edu\/arapahoe\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/49\/2026\/07\/grassclippings.png\" alt=\"grass clippings atop newspaper for garden mulch\" class=\"wp-image-8190\" srcset=\"https:\/\/extension.colostate.edu\/arapahoe\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/49\/2026\/07\/grassclippings.png 588w, https:\/\/extension.colostate.edu\/arapahoe\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/49\/2026\/07\/grassclippings.png?resize=300,235 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 588px) 100vw, 588px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"539\" height=\"428\" data-id=\"8191\" src=\"https:\/\/extension.colostate.edu\/arapahoe\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/49\/2026\/07\/blackplasticmulch.png\" alt=\"black plastic on top of a raised garden bed\" class=\"wp-image-8191\" srcset=\"https:\/\/extension.colostate.edu\/arapahoe\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/49\/2026\/07\/blackplasticmulch.png 539w, https:\/\/extension.colostate.edu\/arapahoe\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/49\/2026\/07\/blackplasticmulch.png?resize=300,238 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 539px) 100vw, 539px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Left, grass clippings used as mulch on top of newspaper (only a couple sheets thick). New clippings should only be applied after existing clippings have dried. Right, tomatoes growing in black plastic mulch. Photos: CSU Extension. <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Black, colored or clear plastic \u2014 used commercially in tomato, pepper, melon and strawberry production \u2014 is worth a thought for use with these crops in your own garden. Put the plastic on the growing bed early in the season to start the soil warming, allowing for earlier growth. Plants must go in early so their growth shades the plastic before summer heat. Otherwise, the plastic can be too hot for the plants and must be removed. Plastic also controls weeds and reduces the need for irrigation. But be careful, because there\u2019s no surface evaporation of water, it can be easy to overwater.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Wood or bark chips shouldn\u2019t be used in the garden as they interfere with future garden prep and take years to decompose in our Colorado soils. Best to limit their use to paths between raised beds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-white-color has-accent-4-background-color has-text-color has-background has-link-color wp-elements-65afcdca0da409ea5ce8b88989105780\"><strong>Want to learn more about soil amendments besides compost? Garden Buzz newsletter has just the <a href=\"https:\/\/arapahoe.extension.colostate.edu\/2026\/03\/06\/beyond-compost-smart-soil-amendments-for-healthier-gardens\/\">article<\/a> for you. Not a subscriber? Sign up <a href=\"https:\/\/lp.constantcontactpages.com\/sl\/23K3ORh\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">here<\/a> to get the Garden Buzz sent directly to your inbox.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading has-accent-8-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-8e79bea761701261fb2b3232b529632e\">Tomatoes Really Don\u2019t Like HOT Weather<\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p>Tomatoes have the reputation as being heat lovers probably because they don\u2019t do well in spring cold. While they like it warmer, our summers can actually be too hot for them. In temperatures over 95 degrees, fruits don\u2019t grow as well \u2014 and we can have plenty days over 95 degrees in July and August, even June this year.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You might also notice flowers dropping off the plants. Again, high temperatures with drying winds are the culprit. Unpollinated flowers will dry out and fall off the plants.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"936\" height=\"489\" src=\"https:\/\/extension.colostate.edu\/arapahoe\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/49\/2026\/07\/tomatosunscald.jpg\" alt=\"pale yellow discoloration on tomato\" class=\"wp-image-8198\" srcset=\"https:\/\/extension.colostate.edu\/arapahoe\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/49\/2026\/07\/tomatosunscald.jpg 936w, https:\/\/extension.colostate.edu\/arapahoe\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/49\/2026\/07\/tomatosunscald.jpg?resize=300,157 300w, https:\/\/extension.colostate.edu\/arapahoe\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/49\/2026\/07\/tomatosunscald.jpg?resize=768,401 768w, https:\/\/extension.colostate.edu\/arapahoe\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/49\/2026\/07\/tomatosunscald.jpg?resize=600,313 600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 936px) 100vw, 936px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>Tomato with sunscald, the pale yellowish discoloration. Photo: CSU Extension<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"936\" height=\"491\" src=\"https:\/\/extension.colostate.edu\/arapahoe\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/49\/2026\/07\/tomatoblossomendrot.jpg\" alt=\"blackened and sunken area on the blossom end of tomatoes\" class=\"wp-image-8199\" srcset=\"https:\/\/extension.colostate.edu\/arapahoe\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/49\/2026\/07\/tomatoblossomendrot.jpg 936w, https:\/\/extension.colostate.edu\/arapahoe\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/49\/2026\/07\/tomatoblossomendrot.jpg?resize=300,157 300w, https:\/\/extension.colostate.edu\/arapahoe\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/49\/2026\/07\/tomatoblossomendrot.jpg?resize=768,403 768w, https:\/\/extension.colostate.edu\/arapahoe\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/49\/2026\/07\/tomatoblossomendrot.jpg?resize=600,315 600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 936px) 100vw, 936px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>Tomatoes with blossom end rot. Photo: CSU Extension<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:25px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>As if that isn\u2019t bad enough, your tomato fruits might have cracks in them, strange yellow patches, black spots on the bottom or even cat facing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>What to do? Make sure you\u2019re giving your plants even, consistent water throughout the season. Mulching over the root zone, not against the plant stem, will help retain the moisture.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This <a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=nKlU5-JKMRM&amp;list=PLF923A9DD3BD61E42&amp;index=23\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>short video<\/strong><\/a> from Extension discusses several problems including insects you might find afflicting your tomatoes along with best practices for growing glorious tomatoes in your garden.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:17px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>The Littleton Pea Patch has been a community garden for more than 40 years.  It is located just east of downtown Littleton between the Rose Memorial Garden and Colorado Center for the Blind.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":9,"featured_media":292,"parent":346,"menu_order":0,"template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"county_tax":[70],"garden-type_tax":[490],"class_list":["post-290","garden-cpt","type-garden-cpt","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry"],"pp_statuses_selecting_workflow":false,"pp_workflow_action":"current","pp_status_selection":"publish","pp_force_visibility":null,"pp_subpost_visibility":null,"pp_inherited_force_visibility":null,"pp_inherited_subpost_visibility":null,"pp_post_mime_type":"","acf":[],"jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/extension.colostate.edu\/arapahoe\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/garden-cpt\/290","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/extension.colostate.edu\/arapahoe\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/garden-cpt"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/extension.colostate.edu\/arapahoe\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/garden-cpt"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/extension.colostate.edu\/arapahoe\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/9"}],"version-history":[{"count":8,"href":"https:\/\/extension.colostate.edu\/arapahoe\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/garden-cpt\/290\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":8223,"href":"https:\/\/extension.colostate.edu\/arapahoe\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/garden-cpt\/290\/revisions\/8223"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/extension.colostate.edu\/arapahoe\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/garden-cpt\/346"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/extension.colostate.edu\/arapahoe\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/292"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/extension.colostate.edu\/arapahoe\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=290"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"county_tax","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/extension.colostate.edu\/arapahoe\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/county_tax?post=290"},{"taxonomy":"garden-type_tax","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/extension.colostate.edu\/arapahoe\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/garden-type_tax?post=290"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}