Dave and I planted peppers and eggplants yesterday.  This year, we're trying a new silver mulch--it's supposed to increase yields and keep insects away from our plants.  It sounds too good to be true, although I have read some studies (done by major universities) that back the hoopla up to some degree. 

I will say that the silver is so bright and shiny that it is almost blinding to look at.  If I were a bug, it would probably keep me away because I wouldn't be albe to fly around and land with my eyes closed. 

I can't wait to see how the mulch works out.  We also tried a few new pepper varieties.  Big Bertha is the one that I'm most excited about.  Carmen and Italia are possible successors to the throne of Dave's favorite pepper, Jimmy Nardello.

I have a new article up on my Garden and Hearth website.  It's about attracting insect-eating birds to your vegetable garden.  It's at www.gardenandhearth.com/organicvegetablegarden.htm