Heating Up

Garlic

Things continue to heat up at the farm while the temperatures look like they are about to level out at last. For the first time this year, the forecast ahead shows warmer days without any temperature drops into the 30s. All of our seedlings have stayed sheltered in the greenhouse until now, rather than risk an overnight freeze on the hardening off tables. The onions are certainly ready to stretch their legs, and they will be moving outside this week without a doubt. We can tell that some plants are ready to move into bigger pots because they are strong enough to pull out of the trays while their root systems hold the soil from their cell intact. It is always exciting to make the rounds in the greenhouse and see which seedlings have grown more leaves overnight. These are all signs that operations are inching towards the fields.

Aside from the plants, our crew has been hard at work updating the farm in other areas. Kate has been doing work on the walk-in cooler and building tables for the new greenhouse. Others have been making various repairs and organizing workstations and storage areas to improve efficiency as the season goes on. After fixing some of the fence posts in the upcoming week, the electric fencing will go up to protect our crops from the many deer that come to enjoy the Powisset buffet. The season will only get busier and these upgrades will allow us to focus more of our attention on the produce.

Strawberries

The volunteers deserve a special shout-out this week. We have been lucky to have yet another great group of people helping us out this season, and they have stuck with us to assist with all kinds of chores on some pretty bone-chilling days. Let’s hope that the weather is kind to us, because they certainly deserve some sunshine!

Remember that while we are a working farm, Powisset also offers scenic walking trails on the grounds. Please drop by to enjoy a nice spring day and see what we have going on! You are likely to see pigs, wildlife, and the early stages of fruit and vegetable production. If you are thinking about having local produce this summer, we would be glad to answer any questions you might have for us. You can sign up for a 10-week or 20-week share, as well as a fruit share add-on by clicking HERE.

Best,

Jeff Hoodlet

Farm Apprentice

Let the Growing Begin!

Things have continued to pick up at the farm over the past week. As the seedlings continue to grow, the empty space in the greenhouse continues to shrink. The small seeds that were so meticulously dropped into their trays are now starting to take form and become recognizable from their neighbors. Before long, some will be moved out of the greenhouse to toughen up for the year ahead. Unlike these transplants, we will soon be direct-seeding certain crops right into the fields where they will grow this season. There is also progress with the plants that have spent the entire winter beneath the snow, waiting to be brought to life by the warmth and sun of spring. The strawberry plants have regained their color and we hope to see garlic popping through the soil in the coming days.

Maintenance also continues on the farm, as we try to finish tractor, barn, and other chores before growing consumes almost all of our time. In preparation for getting the machinery into its best condition, the Trustees held a two-day tractor operation, safety, and maintenance course at Appleton Farms. The class was instructed by Shane LaBrake, a very knowledgeable man with years of experience in farming and tractor operation. While both the seasoned and new farmers took away many lessons from the course, the biggest was the importance of mindfulness while performing work in such an environment. Not only will this make the job much safer, but it will also make it more efficient and less frustrating. We would like to thank Shane for his time and efforts in improving the atmosphere around tractors on our farms this season.

As things continue to move along, we get closer to the start of our CSA in June. We are still seeking members for this year, and would love to have you join the Powisset Farm family! I am always impressed by the community that gathers at Powisset to enjoy the camaraderie, produce, and beautiful property where our farm resides. This season we are offering 10-week and 20-week CSA shares, as well as a fruit share add-on. Please let us know if you have any questions, we would be glad to chat with you!

Hope to see you soon!

Jeff Hoodlet
Farm Apprentice

Spring Has Arrived!

Despite the fact that we have seen snow this week, it is most certainly spring at Powisset Farm. The birds are chirping, the pigs are playing, and the vibrant colors are slowly streaming back into the vegetation. With the indispensable help of our volunteer crew, the greenhouse is starting sprout thousands of seedlings that will become the food you and I will eat in a few short months. Many of our volunteers are familiar faces that have stuck around through many beautiful days spent in the fields and the occasional days spent hauling equipment in the snow. Other volunteers are new, carrying fresh personality in with the spring breeze. It is always a great group of people that brings a plentiful batch of smiles, knowledge, and kindness to our work.

While the seedlings are certainly the change that most directly connects to our produce, there are many other transformations taking place at the farm. Andrew mentioned our new farm crew in a previous post, but a new greenhouse and wash station are also in the works for this season. Both of these updates will help us generate the best food possible for you, the vital supporters and fans of Powisset Farm.

Aside from plant life, spring also brings animal life to the farm. Some of these animals will be seen in the barnyard before long, while others can be found on the trails that meander throughout the property. If you’re looking for a place to enjoy a sunny day, keep your eyes peeled for wildlife as small as chipmunks and as large as deer if you go for a walk on our trails.

10-week and 20-week CSA shares are available this season, as well as a fruit share add-on. If you’re interested in having some great local produce this summer, please consider our farm. If you would like to learn more, we would love to talk to you!

Hope to see you soon!

Jeff Hoodlet

Farm Apprentice