At least for Episode 2 of Arctic Blast we got some snow! Snow before freezing is actually better, because it insulates the crops and keeps them moist. That dry cold is a killer. There are radicchios under this snow, covered with frost blanket.
THIS WEEK’S SUBSCRIBER MENU:
• “Jester” Winter Squash
• Topless “Nelson” Carrots
• Topless “Yellowstone” Carrots
• Topless Beets
• “Desiree” Potatoes
• Cabbage or Radicchio
• Leeks or Onions
• Kohlrabi
• Garlic
Click on the links above for information and recipes about these crops.
COMING SOON: Brussels Sprouts
Another cold spell is not our favorite weather. But at least this time we got some snow! Not only is it prettier, but it insulates the crops with moisture so they don’t freeze-dry. It’s still been in the 17°-19° range every morning, so that means breaking ice on the animals’ water tanks and removing the ice before refilling with buckets, because all the water lines are frozen. Interestingly, all of the animals tend to drink more water when it is very cold.
Brrrr. The rogue chickens are looking for handouts—21°, It’s a winter wonderland!
What about the vegetables, you ask? Well, we have the same survivors that we did after the last freezing spell! Lots of carrots, beets, leeks, cabbages and radicchio. And of course, all of the squash and onions in storage. In case there is any doubt, we expect to fulfill the last few weeks of our Winter Season, even if it does get a bit repetitive. At least we still have produce, and it’s going to keep getting sweeter and sweeter with the cold snaps!
The cows and donkeys enjoyed a romp in the first snow of the year, which was pretty entertaining. And the turkey that escaped T-Day harvest stayed out of the way. At least he didn’t end up in a pan.
We had twin turkeys for Thanksgiving, since they finished up smaller than expected.
Our hummingbirds have become year-round residents, after a decade of leaving feeders out. Now I’m committed to keeping the feeders thawed all winter so they don’t starve. It’s worth it to keep their jeweled little bodies buzzing around in the summer.
It took me a decade to get hummingbirds to stay year-round, and now I’m committed. Even if it means bringing the feeders in at night and taking them out every morning. We’ve got at least 5 pairs that fight over four feeders all winter.
It always surprises me to have people emailing about next year when it’s only December, so I’ve updated our CSA application form. If you are interested in joining us again next year (and we hope you are!) there’s a link here 2015 CSA App.
Whistling Train Farm 