Hi Keith,
Welcome to the Northeast Forum. And thank you for that heartfelt story. It sounds like it is frustrating for you. Unfortunately, I no longer live in the greater NYC area. I moved to PA 27 years ago, but there are two members of the NE Forums that live on LI, and perhaps they might have some insight/be able to help you. I will call their attention to this thread.
I grew up in New Rochelle (Westchester County) just above NYC. My father always had a great vegetable garden. After college, I live in situations and apartments where I had little ability to garden. It wasn't until I moved to PA that I started gardening in earnest. I now have various vegetable gardens, flowers gardens, a greenhouse, and am creating an 8500 square foot food forest.
I try, as much as possible, to grow organically, and am always interested in new plants. Unfortunately, again, I do not have a Facebook account, so I can't access your site.
Hopefully, others will come along and be able to help you out.
Jim
