While visiting family over the holidays I had the opportunity to go to the National Agricultural Library in Maryland. The National Agricultural Library is one of four national libraries of the United States and houses one of the world’s largest…
The entire field is finally planted. Last week I planted the last of the popcorn, a bit behind schedule but in the ground nevertheless. The tomato plants are getting big. The cherry varieties have lots of green fruit on…
During January most of my time is spent on the computer, making the 2015 farm plan. It starts with reviewing last year’s sales and field notes to see what did well, what had poor production, and new ideas. Based on…
Last week I spent some time at the National Heirloom Expo. Each year they have large, detailed displays of squash, tomatoes, peppers, and melons. All organized by varieties, its like a living seed catalog. As a farmer you spend a lot…
Last week I harvested the first of this year’s dried bean crop. I am growing four different bean varieties this year Tiger Eye, Jacob’s Cattle, Hutterite, and Calypso. Each of these varieties has a distinct colorful pattern hidden underneath their…
Recently I was asked by local foodie columnist, Kristin Jorgensen, if I could write about how the current drought is affecting my farm. I jumped at the chance to have a farmer’s perspective in the press! My guest column was…
Thursday I finally planted dried beans, winter squash, and pumpkin seeds in the field. When I had made my crop schedule, back in January I had planned to plant these seeds at the beginning of May. So they got in the…
The sun is out and the greenhouse is filled. The seedlings are still pretty small most are just wee sprouts. Here in Sonoma we have been experiencing temperatures in the 70’s, its feels summer. So I’ve been doing all my…
Reasons why I love January (the farm’s quiet time) Reason #5 : Sleeping in …. zzzzzz Reason #4 : Having the time to clean & organize the barn! Reason #3 : Flipping through seed catalogs & dreaming up this year’s…
We are still hoping for rain, I’m getting real tired of tending to the irrigation and drip tape on the farm. I look forward to the winter every year as it’s a time for reflection, daydreaming, and for not thinking…