Another week, another frost. Granted, this just barely was a frost, plants were mildly touched – summer squash was probably hurt the most, but the potatoes were very much not at all happy. Other than those two, the rest of the frost sensitive plants were safely tucked in the greenhouse. That, in itself is of course a bit of a problem since those plants should be in the ground. Imagine having shoes that are too tight – that’s how most of them are feeling right now.
note that the discolored potato leaves are from the freeze 5/10. The historic last frost here normally is April 15. This happened 5/10. Unfair!
The good thing for the week is that it was dry enough to till up beds that absolutely need to be planted as soon as possible. The paper mulch used to suppress weeds and retain moisture is on order, and should arrive later this week. When it comes, the broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage and bok choi can be set out. Oh, and also six more trays of lettuce. The annual “when will Carrots and Beets from the outside garden show up” clock can start ticking as well.
note there are two potato beds shown in the picture with some light damage. There are also baby potatoes in the greenhouse. The outside cabbage (under floating crop cover) is coming along too.
Meanwhile, there is progress. The snap peas, which should of been available according to “the plan,” were strung up, and are doing well.
This weekly update seems to be forward-focused – here and now, your boxes will be very similar to last week. The members who are not taking Mustard are getting pretty ‘skinny looking’ portions – and if you don’t take chard or Mustard it is really a challenge to find a box of veggies that looks reasonable. The Asparagus is doing great, Carrots are getting some size, and there is Arugula for the Arugula Salad lovers.
So – here is what IS in the box:
| Lettuce | Winter Density, Winter Brown – relatively small heads, still. Small portions this week, again. More is coming… |
| Brassicas | Some true kale lovers might get stunted Kale. There are very young Bok Choi on the way, and Cabbage is close to forming a head – but still out there a ways. |
| Roots | Beets are getting to the end. Young Carrots are still coming. |
| Greens | Mustard … Wilts really fast – wash it, bag it, put it in a refrigerator… Chard – thinking about going to seed. So, leaves are looking a bit odd. Suspect that the greenhouse has been getting too hot; will be opening the big door to stop that game. Spinach – smaller yield, but there is some. Arugula – those who have asked for a “lot” should be getting that. Vit – Pretty small, nice taste – not a lot, ask. Usually put with the herbs because it is small. |
| Herbs | Mint, Oregano, Chives, Green Onions, Cilantro,Parsley |
| Misc | Asparagus! If you DO NOT want this delicacy, speak up! (and there is one member who did speak up…) |
Coming: Cabbage, Bok Choi, Snap Peas (currently, Peas are about a foot tall and growing fast).
