Yes, it's December already. The farm pace has slowed. The plant growth has slowed. The light levels are almost at their lowest for the year. It's a welcome change after the hectic autumn season. We find ourselves digging out our project lists to work on the things we set aside during the rest of the year. One of my list items has been to start a blog. While we like to do a narrative on our produce list once in a while, we know its not be best place to chat about what's happening on the farm, so here we are! We'll be sure to let you know when there's a new blog post, or you can always "bop in" to our website and have a look.
A few of you have asked about salad mix, wondering if it's gone for the year. Worry not, it will be back in about a week. The lettuces in the fields were attacked by deer and slugs and the hoop house lettuces need time to grow before we start the "cut and come again" process.
Sadly, bulk carrots and broccoli are gone until late Spring or early Summer (assuming we're able to plant as scheduled). Next year, we'll plant double!
Winter is the best time of year for leafy greens, keep your eyes on the list for new additions. As things mature, we'll be adding mizuna, Asian cabbage greens, pak choi, tat soi, stir-fry mix and turnip greens. Each one with its own distinct flavor and texture.
Today we hosted a group of college students learning about Integrated Pest Management. Walking around the farm and talking about your successes and challenges gives a farmer a lot of perspective. I don't think I'd be wrong to say that small farmers have a tendency to be pensive. Maybe constantly being in and around nature creates space to think and reflect. Maybe it's the perpetual observation of what's happening around you in order to stay on top of pests, weeds, thinning, harvesting, watering, planting, planning, etc. Maybe it's the conversations you have in your head about the ever-growing to-do list. Regardless, I'm thankful for it. Having time to reflect and share feels cathartic. Giving students a chance to lay their eyes and hands on real-life applications of their book knowledge feels meaningful. And...it's really fun to talk shop!