Preparing the High Tunnel for Fall Planting
Remember the tarp we had in the high tunnel to smother new weed growth? The tarp did its job beautifully and now it’s time to prepare the beds in the high tunnel for fall planting! Each bed has been broadforked to help aerate and break up any compaction in the soil. Once each bed is broadforked, a layer of compost is added to incorporate organic matter and improve the soil structure. Once the compost is in place, we can use the precision depth roller attachment on our BCS tractor to help gently mix the compost into the soil (below). We can’t wait to get these beds planted with fall crops!
The greenhouse is starting to look very verdant as all of the fall crops we seeded last week germinate! Overall we’re seeing really great germination which has us eager to get these crops planted in the field. Farmer Matt is incredibly excited for the broccoli and cauliflower because he loves incorporating them into meals and never gets tired of them. He’s also looking forward to scallions making their way back into the harvesting rotation since they’re fun to grow and smell amazing in the field in the early morning! Which fall crops are you most excited to see return to the Farm Stand?
Our next round of baby butternuts is almost ready for harvesting! This variety is ready to harvest once it turns a tan color and the skin toughens up. The easiest way to tell if the skin is tough enough is to give it the “fingernail test”: if you press on the skin with your fingernail and it doesn’t leave a dent, it’s ready! Once harvested, these butternuts will cure in the greenhouse before making their way to the Farm Stand. We’ll let you know as soon as they’re available!
In Season at the Farm Stand: Korean Melons, Cucumbers, Zucchini (limited), Asian Eggplant (limited), Roselle Greens, Okra, and Long Beans.
Coming Soon: Baby Butternuts
