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Sunday, June 10, 2007

Vol 12 No 2 - Week of June 11th

Dry - Dry - Dry

Mulching.jpg

We had a great day at the farm on Saturday for the trip to the farm. Thanks to Eric & Christina from Hoboken Midtown for coming up & helping with mulching the small field. The mulching helps to keep moisture in and the weeds out, which is very important, especially with our continued dry conditions.

We have a new problem! Either a baby woodchuck or a baby rabbit has broken into the large field. Saturday night it ate three lettuces. As it gets bigger we hope its consumption won't multiply to 6, then 12, then 24…..! Farmer Rich has not been able to find where it is getting in. In addition, upon his arrival on Sunday morning it looked like there were dozens of rabbits. As he quoted "they were everywhere", in the driveway, in the picnic area, and generally all about. Interestingly, we did not sight even one on Saturday all day.

Farmer Rich has added some new sprinklers and with the assistance of our neighbor Farmer Adam has added more drip irrigation tape. The ground is bone-dry, so we need everyone to "think rain"

From the Fields All fields are in production at this point. The main field has the largest variety of crops planted. The back field has newly planted potatoes (2 varieties), garlic & onions. The side field has tomatoes, peppers & herbs. This was the field that we mulched on Saturday. The large greenhouse is where the oriental greens, chard & kale are growing. We planted arugula and more oriental greens in the areas where the collards were harvested.

Weather Report: A little rain fell last Sunday night, but not a drop since. We continue to irrigate from the pond, which helps but there is nothing like a soaking-in kind of rain. Lack of rain inhibits germination of newly seeded crops, delays maturation of growing crops and generally inhibits growth. Each season has it's own struggle and it looks like lack of rain is the signature of this season so far.

Laugh1.jpgFarm Humor! Everyone knows how the Green Giant dresses when he works in the field. But when he goes to a corporate board meeting, what does he usually wear? answer below

What's Up & Growing: We like to keep you posted on the variety of crops that are either growing or ready to be planted. Here is our crop report:

Planted, transplanted or seeded this week: Beets Turnips Black Spanish Radishes Cilantro Dill Cherry tomatoes Tomatoes Peppers Parsle Tomatillos Potatoes

What's up & Growing: Sorrel Horseradish Garlic Lettuces Cucumbers Squash Radishes Kale Walla Walla Onions Chard Tomatoes Shanghai Cabbage Peppers Fava Beans Oriental Greens

Crops Lost: Broccoli Cauliflower Peas Spinach

Farmer Rich reseeded the broccoli & cauliflower. At this point we have to wait until the fall for the spinach. The spot the peas were planted in is now tomatoes. We work with other farmers so hope to get you some peas, sooner or later.

The cherry tomatoes were planted in a pick-your-own area, so when ever you visit the farm you can pick the cherry tomatoes!

Laugh2.jpgVegetable Joke of the Week: .Answer: a three peas suit!

Pick of the Week: Click on the link below (or on the right) for your drop-off location. This time of year the deliveries will be the same in pounds & variety but may include different items at each location.

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