At this time of year, I feel like many of us have a love/hate relationship with zucchini. How does such an unassuming squash become the powerhouse of neighborhood gardens? Lots of things do well in the garden, but zucchini kicks it up a notch by being not only a high-yield garden performer, it has the ability — and the desire, I believe — to bulk up like a squash body-builder. And of course, it’s the Arnold Schwarzenegger versions that usually appear at the work place accompanied by a hand-written sign just bursting with optimism, “Free for the taking — enjoy!”
Not that I want to give enthusiastic zucchini-tenders out there any ideas, but I happen to know that Aug. 8 is National Sneak Some Zucchini Onto Your Neighbor’s Porch Day. Now, a little neighborly goodwill can quickly turn into someone else’s nightmare, so instead of doing a squash drop-and-run — the gardener’s version of dine-and-dash — let’s come up with some options for zucchini superfluity.
By gosh, you don’t have to be awash in squash.
The wacky side of my brain — yes, it takes up one whole side of my head — thinks that too much zucchini means more opportunities for zany, zucchini fun. Why try to eat all that green goodness when you can transform a select few — or many — into centerpieces, toy racecars, toothpick holders or doorstops? The fun is there for the taking, and you can thank me later when your family has a ball making a zucchini zoo. I don’t have any zucchini craft books to recommend, but you don’t need a book — use your imagination! Let the merriment ensue.
If playing with your food does not amuse you, here is a short list of titles — all available at the library — to help you keep a firm and serious grip on your zucchini crop. Oh, wait, my wacky brain wants to contribute to the list, too.
