FARM NEWS
The spring that was slow to arrive is on its way to being here and with it, the notable stiff winds that always come when winter gives way to spring and that return when summer gives way to fall. Normally, I despise the wind and “despise” is a word I seldom use when describing the characteristics of Mother Nature.The wind to me represents an unexpected force that moves things that normally don’t get moved – be it trash, trees and buildings or moisture that is supposed to be in my plants. But this wind is a welcome addition.
Two weeks ago, we received two inches of rain, right in the middle of when we were supposed to be planting. The field was scheduled to be home to our second tomato planting, but was left too muddy to plant. Last minute, we selected a different field that worked out but still, as I type this, the heavy field that is slated for tomatoes is too wet to disk, make beds, insert drip tape and prepare for planting.
However, this stiff spring breeze will help with that and if the warm spring days next week arrive as predicted, we should be in a position to plant our third and then final tomatoes into their scheduled field.
With the warmer days, plants have started to grow very quickly. Tomato plants are established and have doubled in size this last week. Our full line up of spring vegetables is being harvested and then left alone for a week to be ready to harvest again. Asparagus is stretching for the sun as fast as we can pluck it from the ground. And my favorite heirloom apricot crop is sizing up beautifully and should be ready to be the first piece of summer fruit harvested in late May or early June.
The busy season has arrived! Thank you for supporting our local food system.
