CSA Week Five-Mother Nature Brings the Heat

CSA Distribution/Farm Stand Hours

• Tuesdays 2:30pm-6:30pm
• Thursdays 10:30am-6:30pm
• Saturdays 10:00am-4:00pm

I hope that everyone had a great Fourth of July and that you were able to beat the heat! The high temperatures have certainly been the most challenging issue at the farm. It is as difficult on the plants as it is on the crew, and it is one frustrating variable that farmers cannot change. Our staff worked hard to stay hydrated and we were out in the fields by 6:00am in order to take advantage of the somewhat cooler morning hours.

James hanging with the farmers

While the heat is uncomfortable and works against productivity, it is even more harmful to some of our crops. Many of our veggies prefer cooler temperatures, but weeds thrive in the heat of the summer. With so much harvesting and planting going on, pulling weeds seems like it would be further down on the list of priorities. However, we have invested so much into our crops that weeding takes an extremely important role in making sure that our investments make their way into the farm stand for distribution. In this business (or any business), product quality and safety is of utmost importance. This means that to keep everything at an acceptable temperature, we must bring our harvested vegetables up in smaller loads immediately after they are picked.

Despite these difficulties, our crew has come out of the week in good health and our plants are still doing great. The rain that we received was a definite help, as was the bulk supply of sports drinks and popsicles. As great as our produce tastes, cold ice water has been the most delicious thing consumed this week. Our crew did a great job of staying tough and taking care of one another. It is great to work with people who consider each other friends and watch out for each other’s well being. We thoroughly enjoy our work, and we truly appreciate our CSA members who support our mission.

Learning how to make plastic beds

Last week also brought a seasonal challenge to our members; the arrival of kohlrabi. Many rejoice in the unique vegetable that is seldom found in grocery stores while others question what in the world to do with it. I was also confused by it when I first arrived at the farm last summer. I quickly found that the easiest way to enjoy kohlrabi is to eat it raw. Peeled and cut into thin slices, it is great on a salad, dipped in humus, or eaten plain. On the other hand, my favorite way to prepare it is by roasting it with other vegetables that are currently in season. I have found that it takes a bit longer to cook than other veggies, so I cut it smaller and mix it all up with some oil, garlic, and spices. If these options aren’t to your liking, I would still suggest browsing the internet in search of a recipe that suits your taste. It really is a versatile piece of produce, and it is certainly not something that is seen every day.

In this week’s share, we have:

ALMOST tomato time!

• Summer Squash
• Cucumbers
• Basil
• Dill Flowers (think pickles!)
• Kale or Chard
• Fennel
• Bok Choy or Kohlrabi
• Cabbage
• Mustard Greens or Broccoli
• Hakurei Turnips or Radishes
• Scallions or Spring Onions
• Fresh Garlic
• Salanova
• Head Lettuce
• Escarole

Pick your own will include:

• Favas
• Beans
• Flowers

Please remember to check out the Powisset barnyard and café! The barnyard is open on Wednesdays from 1:00-3:00pm and Saturdays from 10:00am-2:00pm. Powisset Café is open on Saturdays from 10:00am-2:00pm. Swing by to learn about our animals and taste some great food made with our fresh veggies.

And now a word from our excellent events staff:

Imagine....gathering with friends and family, enjoying a delicious catered meal with Powisset Farm fresh ingredients, sipping refreshing beverages while listening to live music. In the background is a stunning sunset. Be a part of this experience throughout the summer, every other Friday at Powisset Farm in Dover, MA. Our next dinner is THIS Friday, July 13th, 6-8pm. 
Ticket prices includes multi-course dinner, non-alcoholic beverages (beer and wine will be available for purchase), and entertainment. Please note that registration for farm dinners will close 48 hours in advance. Vegetarian and kid-friendly menu options available. Special food requests cannot be accommodated
For more information and to reserve your spot: https://mailchi.mp/7405728a0a6c/powfridayfarmdinners2018

Hope to see you soon!

Jeff Hoodlet

Farm Apprentice