https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/our-csa-program/2026-04-03T04:26:07+00:00weekly0.6https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2026/03/24/life-after-the-flood/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/img_4960.jpegBaby SugarSnaps2026-03-25T16:08:28+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2025/11/25/the-dark-season/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/img_2858-1.jpegIMG_2858https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/img_2856.jpegIMG_2856https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/img_2858.jpegIMG_2858https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/img_0466-1.jpegIMG_0466https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/img_0468-1.jpegIMG_0468https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/img_0466.jpegIMG_0466https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/img_3039.jpegIMG_3039https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/img_0468.jpegIMG_0468https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/img_0467.jpegIMG_04672025-11-26T14:49:17+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/the-farmer/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/shelleyrapini1.jpgShelleyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/photo2-e1334981515650.jpgFarmer Shelleyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/img_0106.jpgFarmer Kidshttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/img_0078.jpgFarmer Cosmohttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/p5010005.jpgFarmer Mike2025-10-30T17:17:49+00:00weekly0.6https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/feed-a-family/2025-10-30T17:16:25+00:00weekly0.6https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/mystery-box/2025-06-27T19:22:02+00:00weekly0.6https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2025/06/27/summer-is-here-and-csa-is-underway-prorated-csa-shares-available/2025-06-27T19:03:29+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/where-to-find-us/2025-06-27T17:09:49+00:00weekly0.6https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/u-pick-cut-flower-garden/2025-06-27T17:06:37+00:00weekly0.6https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2025/02/23/the-quickening-of-spring-and-the-state-of-things/2025-02-23T21:56:46+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2024/12/21/winter-solstice-and-a-new-year/2024-12-21T20:28:51+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2024/10/29/almost-november/2024-10-30T04:15:00+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2024/03/18/springgggg/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/img_3106.jpgimg_3106https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/img_3233.jpgimg_32332024-03-26T14:00:09+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2023/11/30/wintertime-and-dreaming-of-next-year/2023-12-01T04:41:00+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2023/08/16/ch-ch-ch-changes/2023-09-21T04:35:23+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2023/08/09/august/2023-08-09T16:18:53+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2023/05/12/may/2023-05-13T02:31:45+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2023/02/10/the-quickening-of-spring/2023-02-10T20:44:56+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2023/01/08/time-to-rest-and-begin-again/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/image-1.jpgimage-1https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/image.jpgimagehttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/img_1914.jpgimg_1914https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/img_1742.jpgimg_17422023-01-08T20:10:11+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2022/12/12/winter-week-3-midway-through-the-winter-csa-season/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/c8ffd822-5cb3-4ce0-8542-1080504df3fe-2.jpgc8ffd822-5cb3-4ce0-8542-1080504df3fe-2https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/img_4278.jpgimg_42782022-12-13T06:48:16+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2022/11/10/summer-fall-week-20-suddenly-its-winter/2022-11-16T01:44:08+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2022/09/24/summer-week-14-every-extra-sunny-day-counts/2022-09-24T22:18:16+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2022/08/16/finally-a-harvest-to-be-proud-of-week-8/2022-08-17T02:28:24+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2022/07/01/a-blast-of-summer-week-1/2022-07-01T15:17:58+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2022/05/19/the-spring-that-was-winter/2022-05-19T21:27:17+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2022/03/24/early-spring-update/2022-03-25T04:48:57+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/our-summer-csa-program/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/hpim0163.jpgRomano BeansVines festooned with golden, heirloom "Meraviglia di Venezia" romano beans.2022-02-12T06:59:30+00:00weekly0.6https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/u-pick-pumpkin-patch/2022-02-12T06:48:10+00:00weekly0.6https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/u-pick-cut-flower-garden-2/2022-02-12T06:47:13+00:00weekly0.6https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/our-spring-csa-program/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/crop-schedule2.jpgcrop schedulehttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/img_1410.jpgRadicchio and ChickweedOverwintered radicchio comes back to life among chickweed in the early spring greenhouse.2022-01-31T05:03:25+00:00weekly0.6https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/our-winter-csa-program/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/p1010036-e1325995402471.jpgPurple Brussels SproutsBeautiful heirloom Brussels sprouts—they come in purple, too!2022-01-31T05:02:56+00:00weekly0.6https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2021/11/18/csa-week-29-2021/2021-11-22T00:59:21+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2021/10/10/csa-week-24-2021/2021-10-11T04:31:12+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2021/09/27/csa-week-22-2021/2021-09-28T04:43:56+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2021/08/25/csa-week-17-2021/2021-08-26T06:17:06+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2021/05/12/csa-week-2-2021/2021-05-12T20:44:39+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2021/03/28/csa-bonus-week-2021/2021-03-29T00:17:21+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/produce/2020-10-12T04:59:21+00:00weekly0.6https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2020/06/08/csa-week-7-2/2020-06-08T22:58:18+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2020/05/15/csa-week-4-may-mini-heat-wave/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/img_4293.jpegFarm StandThis new big tent is our Farm Stand! Right now it's open only on Sundays from 10-2, but in June we'll be open Wednesday-Sunday, hours, tbd. I'll be bringing in Hayton Farms Berries, Collins Orchards tree fruits, Honey, and other assorted produce that I am not able to have available all the time. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/6da9a950-5c1e-44d0-b96c-fbc5b0956390.jpegLittle PeasThe Sugar Snap Peas outside are growing fast! They're now a foot tall and trellised. Ready to bloom and make us all sweet peas to eat!https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/img_4238.jpegGreen Mini Lettucehttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/img_4309.jpgCSA Week 4Clockwise from Top Left: Pea Shoots, Mint, Dandelion Greens, Green Garlic, Red Butter Lettuce, Green Butter Lettuce, Radishes, Parsley, Cauliflower2020-05-16T02:44:52+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2020/05/07/yes-csa-pickup-5-9-5-12-this-week/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/img_4237.jpgRed Mini Lettucehttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/img_4243.jpgOverwintered CauliflowerI planted the seed for these bonus cauliflowers back in July of last year. We planted them out in September, and they've sat all winter waiting to reveal themselves. It's a miracle of selective plant breeding.2020-05-07T21:43:05+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2020/05/01/csa-week-3-green-theme/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/img_4046.jpegTiny CauliflowerBaby Cauliflower! I planted seeds for these in July, and put the plants outside in early September. 7 months later, we have these!https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/img_4045-e1588310657347.jpegLettuceLettuce is coming soon!https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/img_3931.jpegGreen Garlic and Arugula PestoI whizzed up a quick batch of pesto this week with a few stems of Green Garlic and two bunches of Arugula. Stuffed it in the food processor with some olive oil and salt and pepper. Great as a dip or as pesto.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/img_3924.jpegMiners LettuceThis succulent spring gem is fondly known as Winter Purslane, but it's not related to the summer Purslane. I like it simply dressed with a light vinaigrette. It's crunchy and juicy and holds us over until lettuce comes along. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/img_3981.jpgCSA Week 3: Green ThemeClockwise from Top Left: Sweet Salad Turnips, Turnip Greens, Stir-Fry Mix, Green Shallots, Spicy Salad Mustard (Large Shares only), Arugula, Miners' Lettuce, Green Garlic, Sorrel (Large Shares only)2020-05-01T16:42:46+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2020/04/23/csa-week-2-working-out-the-kinks/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/img_3762.jpgFarm Stand SuccessNo Contact doesn't have to mean No Community! Come down to the farm stand and chat at a distance while you pick up some fresh produce! Updates on the farm Facebook page.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/img_3635-1.jpegCSA dropsiteThis is the new face of CSA distribution, pandemic-style. I don't want to use all the bags and disposable packaging, but I don't really have a choice while we're social distancing. I am doing my best to use as little as possible, I assure you. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/img_3758.jpegFarm Stand 1Chris and I have been talking about opening a roadside farm stand since last year. And with the closure of farmers markets, we decided that this was the time to start. Phase 1 is this Sunday-only conversion of the CSA pickup shed. A big tent is on the way for upcoming weeks in the near future. Check the farm Facebook page for updates and open hours. So exciting!https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/1dcefa4f-21dd-4f0e-81d7-aa0b92b95795-1.jpgSeeder HopperGot a bunch planted before the rain came Tuesday night! This is my new seed hopper for the mechanical planter I use for direct-seeding crops. Somehow the farm tool gremlins came over the winter and took my old one off the planter... no idea where it went. The seed goes in the hopper, and there are various sized rollers that slip inside depending on the seed size being planted. 2020-04-24T19:04:02+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2020/04/21/yes-there-is-csa-pickup-this-week-april-21/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/img_3765.jpgCSA Week 2Clockwise from Top Left: Italian Parsley, Green Garlic, Green Shallots, Kale, Purple Radishes, Fresh Thyme, and Purple Sprouting Broccoli.2020-04-24T17:06:30+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2020/04/15/csa-week-1-pandemic-edition/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/img_3653.jpg2020 CSA Week 1Clockwise from Top Left: Italian Parsley, Green Garlic, Chives, Kale Broccolini, Thyme, Purple Radishes, Purple Sprouting Broccolihttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/a2ce64f6-9468-4d2d-add0-3965cb9d7481.jpegPurple Sprouting BroccoliI plant the seeds for this broccoli in July, put the plants out in August, and then we wait. In April, if all goes well, we are rewarded with a bounty of purple deliciousness.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/371abe98-b98b-40b0-8ab6-3419cfa14ab3.jpegLettuce StartsThe first heads of yummy lettuce are in the ground now, and growing nicely in one of the greenhouses.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/img_3616.jpegPurple RadishesAnyone can have red radishes from the store... I choose purple.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/img_3635.jpegNo-Contact CSA DeliveryThis is what CSA delivery looks like in our pandemic era. No need to touch anyone else's bag.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/img_3636.jpegFlower BouquetsKu Lor grows cut flowers down the road. She has no place to sell bouquets with the farmers markets closed, so I'm offering them for sale at the farm stand. $15 each, Venmo or Zelle for no-contact payment please!2020-04-21T03:15:07+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2020/03/20/quick-first-day-of-spring-update/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/093728af-4d11-43a3-9d63-8b6a46c75537.jpegPurple Broccolihttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/ed538554-f6dd-4734-b674-824a19bb6661.jpegFirst Queen Bumblebee of 20202020-03-22T16:24:46+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2020/02/27/csa-bonus-week-and-first-planting/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/img_1910.jpgWinter CSA Bonus 2020Things that survived the winter and want to be eaten! Brussels sprouts, Savoy Cabbage, Candy Carrots, Beautiful Beets, Baby Daikon, and Komatsuna with Rapini (some folks got yummy kale instead).https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/922a1212-ac80-496b-9648-cd2346edf21f.jpgGreenhouse FertilizerThe Fertilizer program I'm now using on the farm: (from top) Gypsum (calcium sulfate) because plants need sulfur in order to metabolize nitrogen; Soft Rock Phosphate (calcium phosphate) from deposits of ancient sea creatures buried in clay deposits, it is broken-down slowly and utilized by soil organisms; Lime (calcium carbonate) is made up of the skeletons and shells of tiny, ancient sea creatures and balances the soil pH while providing essential calcium to soil organisms and growing plants; Dolomite (magnesium carbonate) is formed from the sediments of ancient saltwater lagoons; Azomite is mined from an ancient deposit of volcanic ash in Utah. Because it originated volcanically, it is high in a wide range of trace minerals; and last is the Chicken manure and feather meal fertilizer I use to provide necessary nitrogen to the growing plants and soil organisms. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/img_1960.jpgFreshly Tilled GreenhouseAll cleaned up and ready to plant! I can plant in the greenhouses months before I can typically plant outside. It's much warmer and dryer inside.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/img_1130.jpgPussy WillowsThe willows are getting ready to become fireworks! In a few weeks, these fuzzy catkins will erupt in a brilliant burst of scarlet and yellow, as they get ready to blast their pollen through the cosmos. Willow pollen is one of the first important foods for baby pollinators, especially bumblebees. Pollen=protein.2020-02-28T02:03:14+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2019/12/14/csa-week-33/2019-12-14T19:37:16+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2019/12/05/csa-week-32/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/img_8095.jpegRadicchioColorful radicchios are quite hardy in cold temperatures. I harvested all that were left before the Thanksgiving weekend, just to be safe. They even lose some bitterness with the cold. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/img_8280.jpegPicking Frozen CarrotsCarrots and beets are hardy in temperatures well below freezing, but harvesting them is difficult when the ground is frozen. They become very brittle and it's hard to get the dirt off. This means they'll be super delicious though...https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/img_8381.jpgIMG_8381"Natasha" Potatoes, Candy Carrots, Beets, Turnips and Daikon, Siberian Kale, Radicchio, Squashes, Garlic2019-12-05T21:44:20+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2019/10/29/csa-week-27/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/t1c4y5khqzkqz2xipgf2mq.jpgFrost on RadicchioFrost looks pretty on red or green leaves, but that frost can burst cell walls and ruin leaves, several layers down. It also turns delicate broccoli buds into black mush. Nobody wants to eat that. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/velueuysrqsbpqiolvmgq.jpgPutting on Frost BlanketsTemperatures in the low- to mid-20's were forecast for this week, so we hustled to put frost blankets and row covers on the more delicate crops, like radicchio, escarole, broccoli, and cauliflower. These fabrics don't seem like much, but they can raise the temperature 2-4 degrees, which can be enough to keep frosty air from damaging or even ruining the crop. It means moving huge pieces of flimsy material and lots of sandbags, but if it works, it's totally worth it.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/50a8af96-65de-4c0a-bc2a-2144dc6caf6d.jpgGarlic BoxesThe Garlic for 2020 has arrived! 300 pounds to get in the ground pronto.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/img_6674.jpgCSA Week 27"Daisy Gold" Potatoes, "Sweet Dumplilng" Squash, Carrots, Beets, Fava Bean Greens, Collard Greens, Arugula or Sorrel or Baby Bok Choy, Garlic2019-10-30T03:40:41+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2019/10/01/csa-week-23/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/img_5668.jpgimg_56682019-10-01T20:17:19+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2019/08/13/csa-week-16-2/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/img_3935.jpgimg_3935https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/img_3955.jpgimg_3955https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/img_4254.jpgimg_42542019-08-13T20:01:47+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2019/07/12/csa-week-11/2019-07-12T22:10:40+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2019/06/18/csa-week-8/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/img_2280.jpgimg_22802019-06-19T05:13:26+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2019/05/01/week-3-2019/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/img_1228.jpgCSA Week 3Salad Turnips, Purple Radishes, Leeks, Spring Onions, Sorrel, Pea Shoots, and Spicy Salad Mustard.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/img_1089-e1556726540638.jpegGypsumGypsum is a rich source of sulfur and calcium. Our soils are deficient in both, and sulfur is necessary for plants to effectively metabolize nitrogen so that they can grow and photosynthesize. The minerals in gypsum originated from ancient hydrothermic vents, and other volcanic activity. Fun Fact: The White Sands of New Mexico are made of grains of crystallized gypsum.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/img_1090-e1556726563330.jpegColomiteOur soils are deficient in Magnesium and Calcium, and that's what Dolomite Lime is made from. Most dolomite originated as ancient seabed sediments. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/img_1088-e1556726576816.jpegAzomiteI believe strongly in remineralizing our rain-leached soils with rock powders. Azomite is mined in Utah from a 35 million-year-old volcanic ash deposit, inundated by an ancient sea. It's brimming with Potassium, Calcium, and Magnesium, but also packed full of trace minerals. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/9eca29ef-868d-4f92-a3d0-42e73e74d4a2.jpegBrassica SeedIt's hard to believe, but its already time to plant fall and winter crops. This is a Brussels Sprout seed. They'll grow in the greenhouse for a month or so, then get planted outside in June, and they'll be ready to harvest October through the end of CSA season. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/img_1166.jpegClean TurnipsAnd this is how Salad Turnips look after they've been washed. So pretty!https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/img_1149.jpegDirty TurnipsThis is how salad turnips look when they're plucked from the soil...2019-05-01T16:04:07+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2019/04/17/week-1-2019/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/img_0860.jpegTwo black calvesThe two newest additions to the farm. Born ten days apart. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/da4ca31a-9f04-44df-b157-2fe423f70ea1.jpgHoneybee in DeadnettlePurple Deadnettle and Wild Speedwell flourish in our wet and warm springs, and they provide vital early food for emerging pollinators.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/img_0897.jpegBaby RadishI planted a greenhouse full of purple radishes in early March, and they're nearly ready!https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/e2a8c609-0a2a-426d-b7c7-a4c887ad0f60.jpegDirty FrogLittle froglet, happily hiding in the greenhouse arugula patch.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/190413_pr.jpgWeek 1, 2019 CSALeeks, Arugula, Kale Broccolini, Sorrel, Purple Salad Mustard, Carrots, and Italian Parsley.2019-04-17T19:36:47+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2019/03/21/gearing-up-for-the-first-week-of-2019/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/809d36ae-6802-4ebe-ab7b-68d333af930a.jpgBaby BeetsFirst crop of beets have popped up.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/h2ksxe3nrvk9cfiqtjtkrq.jpgGerminating CarrotsThe earliest carrots come from planting in a greenhouse in February. They're up!https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/mfunelxgslomlyiddlrksa.jpgBuilding Greenhouse TrellisI put up trellis in one of the greenhouses for the early peas. Fingers crossed now for peas in May. I started plants back in early February, and in another week or two I'll plant the main crop outside. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/584cf056-7a80-4210-b451-35ecbfa59e2d.jpgBaby PlantsGreen Onions, Parsley, and Basil are all growing well.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/420ec9aa-6ea1-4721-8beb-05647078d0e2.jpgBlooming Pussy WillowsAs soon as the weather warms, the pussy willows bloom. Those furry grey buds are actually flowers, and their pollen is important baby bee food. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/38733e83-65b2-4f0a-8d4d-53ff298caa99.jpgPlanting in MarchAfter the freezing and snowing of January and February, what a gift it was to have sunny, warm weather in March. So many things are planted!2019-03-23T00:24:24+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2019/01/12/csa-postseason/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/smieprrjrao7ivxlj7p5iw.jpgSnowpocalypseAfter the first foot of snow, we were threatened by rain. That's a recipe for crushed greenhouses, so we hustled to remove all the snow. All were saved, but the mountains between the greenhouses have still not completely melted, almost a week later. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/img_8779.jpgPeadlingsI planted these babies two weeks ago. Covered them with a cage to keep the rodents from digging them up, placed the flats on a heated sand table to keep them above the chill, and added a cloth cover to help moderate the temperature inside the greenhouse. That was before we knew Snowpocalypse was coming. Somehow, through the days of snow, and the temperatures in the teens, they managed to mostly germinate. A few lost out to mold, but most are popping up today, and I am thankful. Early greenhouse peas for all of the eaters! Look for them sometime in May!https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/img_8750.jpgCSA Week 40This is what was available in Late January: Savoy Cabbages, Leeks, Brussels Sprouts (in purple and green), Kale Flower Sprouts, Potatoes, Parsnips, Squash, and Daikon. 2019-02-16T20:25:16+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2018/12/26/csa-week-39/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/IMG_6500.jpegBrussels SproutsThe purple brussels sprouts are looking great, but they're a bit small yet. Late January for them, too. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/IMG_6499.jpegSavoy CabbageSo many cabbages, growing so slowly in these short, dark days. They should size up over winter and be ready to harvest in late January. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/IMG_6298.jpegMt. RainierA lovely sunset view of Mt. Rainier from behind the greenhouse row. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/IMG_6443.jpegGarlic ShootsThe garlic has all sprouted and is growing lots of roots and a little top to feed those roots. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/IMG_6492.jpegSprouting Broccoli plantsThis is the patch of Purple Sprouting Broccoli, looking amazing for winter growth! Planted in August, these should be producing their lovely purple spears in March! That's a loooong growing season.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/IMG_6547.jpgCSA 38It's an earthy week for vegetables: Daikon, Kohlrabi, Potatoes, Beets, Leeks, Squashes, Kale. 2018-12-27T03:39:15+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2018/11/08/csa-week-31-frosty-nights/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/kxctvk9qdomowsb3mz7q.jpgCeleriac and CeleryCeleriac on the left, Celery on the right. Fat root or fat stems?https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/180331_pr.jpgWeek 31Fall Food: Potatoes, Spaghetti Squash, Onions, Carrots, Kale or Celery, Tomatoes or Beets, Garlichttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/img_5332.jpgPotatoesThe potatoes are really nice this year, and prolific. My new fertilizer program, boosting phosphorous, magnesium, and trace minerals, is really starting to pay dividends. Nutrient-rich soil grows nutrient-dense food. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/img_5325.jpgKaleFrosty nights mean sweeter kale. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/img_5743.jpgGarlic SproutI usually plant two types of garlic: hardneck and softneck. The hardneck types have bigger, easier-to-peel cloves and a punchier flavor, but don't keep as long. The soft neck varieties are easier to braid, and keep longer, even into the spring. Hardneck varieties need a longer cold period before bulbing, so I always plant them first, just in case the heavy rains come and delay planting. The beds I planted two weeks ago are already popping up out of their plastic mulch. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/bba22e00-df27-4468-8ca2-1d2485fabd26.jpgBad CauliflowerCrop diversity as is important as ecological diversity. Here's an example from the field: I planted my usual white variety, Bishop, and the green cauliflower that is a few weeks later to mature. For whatever reason, the white variety became infested with aphids, and then came down with this black mold. The green is beautiful and perfect. Sadly, there haven't been enough white crowns to give to CSA, but the green is looking good for Thanksgiving week. 2018-11-08T19:29:35+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2018/10/17/csa-week-29-fog-and-the-story-of-celery/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/img_4642-e1539817656861.jpgIMG_4642https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/img_5164.jpgCelery and Celery RootCelery takes eight months to reach harvestable size, as does its brethren, Celeriac. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/img_5126.jpgRed PotatoesThis week I'm digging "Strawberry Paw" potatoes. They're beautifully red on the outside, and snowy white on the inside, and they were very productive this year. I have no idea why they bear this name. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/img_5130.jpgGreen PeppersSo many green peppers. There's a lot of greenhouse magic this year, and the peppers are loaded with fruits, but they're only just now starting to ripen to red. I've been helping them focus on the biggest, oldest ones by picking several green peppers off each plant. It's unlikely that they'll all ripen anyway, given how late it is and the nights are pretty chilly now. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/img_5158.jpgCSA Week 29Fall is definitely here! Cabbages, Potatoes, Spaghetti Squash, Garlic, Stir-fry Greens (baby kale and pea shoots), Celery or Green Peppers, and Tomatoes or Eggplants. 2018-10-17T23:20:07+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2018/09/19/csa-week-25-soup-weather/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/180331_pr1.jpgCSA Week 25Potatoes, Leeks, Carrots, Garlic, Celery or Lettuce, Napa Cabbage or Corn or Cherry Tomatoes, Arugula or Persian Cucumbershttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/img_38441.jpgPony ExpressLast week, Cosmo and I had a road trip/camping adventure through central Nevada. We explored Great Basin National Park, and discovered the Pony Express. We had a fantastic time on our mini vacation.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/img_38731.jpgBroccoliThe Broccoli crowns are about the size of a 50¢ piece now, and they'll be ready for you in just another week or two!https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/img_39291.jpgFall GreensLots of tender mustards for salads this fall! Looking luscious!2018-09-19T19:17:45+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2018/09/08/csa-week-24-fall-is-on-the-way/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/180331_pr.jpgCSA week 24Sweet Corn, Persian Cucumbers, Tomatoes, Napa Cabbage, Green Beans, Lettuce, Beets, Stir-Fry Greens, Red Onions!https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/img_3153.jpgsunsetA late summer sunset, with no wildfire smoke. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/img_3132.jpgbaby acornWinter squashes are setting and ripening. Here a Table Queen acorn squash cozies up to an Eastern Rise squash.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/img_3149.jpgEggplants and Noodle BeansChecking on the peppers and eggplants, and taming the yard-long beans on the right. 2018-09-09T05:45:41+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2018/07/30/csa-week-19-finally-a-fresh-blog-post/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/img_04561.jpgHummingbird and BeansUntil this year I didn't realize that Hummingbirds love bean blossoms! There have been several that fly in and out of the bean greenhouse, whether I'm in there or not. And now, they are frequenting the pole bean rows outside. We have several Anna's Hummingbirds that overwinter and nest here, and as a result, the whole families are chilling in the beans, sitting on the wire and chattering. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/img_0539.jpgIMG_0539https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/img_1691.jpgTomatoes and July Full MoonLong evenings pruning tomatoes at 90+° mean that I get to see the moon rise. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/img_1727.jpgMorning Sprinklers in beansEarly morning water moving. These beans need to be drip-taped, but there was no time that day and they needed water or they'd die. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/img_1746.jpgTomato greenhouseNearly done with the first, major tomato pruning. Won't be long now. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/img_1811.jpgRomano BeansRomano Beans are loving the heat. They're trellised, so as long as they get watered every 2-3 days they'll be tender and productive. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/img_1765.jpgBumblebee and Bean BlossomBumblebees love beans.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/img_1827.jpgCSA Week 19Fennel, Cucumbers, Green Beans, New Potatoes, Garlic, Basil, and Summer Squashes2018-07-31T02:30:31+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2018/04/15/csa-week-3/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/img_8357.jpgCSA Week 5Fresh, spring crops! Green Garlic, Purple Radishes, Lettuce Mix, Rhubarb, Sorrel, and Thyme. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/img_8339.jpgPea FlowerExtra weeding, watering, and heat this week pumped the greenhouse peas into flowering. It's hard to say which will win the race, Sugar Snaps or Shelling Peas. But I'm not picky! I'll eat them both!https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/img_8268.jpgCultivatingCultivation, in the farmer sense, means cleaning up weeds, but it's also a disturbance of the soil. Aerating the surface allows oxygen and water to enter between the soil particles easily, and that results in quicker, healthier growth. Roots grow faster, which means the plants absorb more nutrients, faster. This wheel hoe is my tool of choice: on the left are the cultivated rows, and on the right are those that need cultivating. It's also good upper body exercise. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/img_8285.jpgOnion Beds at SunsetThese dry days have been perfect for getting our big onion crop in the ground. Did you know that onions have a timer? Up here above the 45th parallel, we have to get our onion plants as big as possible by the Summer Solstice, June 21, because bullying onions have a timer: As soon as the days start getting shorter, they start to bulb. So the bigger the plant, the bigger the bulb! https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/img_8029.jpgMustard MixThis baby mustard greens mix is outside, and is still too small to harvest. Hopefully after a week of warmer, brighter days, we'll be eating it soon!https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/img_8065.jpgJonquilThe bulbs are still blooming! CSA families, come and get them while they last! Saturdays after noon, or Tuesdays after 2:00. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/img_8078-e1523850329658.jpgSwiss ChardLast summer, when I planted Swiss Chard in a greenhouse, I hoped to be harvesting through December, and hopefully again in the spring. I had no idea it would just keep on producing. I'm glad it has, because the kale is nearly finished!https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/img_8066.jpgRain GaugeApparently this is the 4th wettest April on record, and we are only half-way. We got 1 1/2" just Saturday. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/img_8064.jpgCSA Week 3Swiss Chard, Kale Mix, Broccolini, Green Shallots, and Fresh Thyme. Plus, u-pick Daffodils and Tulips. (GoFundMe Tote info below.)2018-04-29T13:36:45+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2018/04/21/csa-spring-break-week-4/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/img_8173.jpgBaby radish and lettucePurple radishes and lettuce mix are nearly ready. Just one more week!https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/img_8227.jpgEnd of RapiniTwo warm, sunny days are all it takes to make the brassicas bloom, bringing an end to Rapini and Broccolini Season. See you next year!https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/img_8229.jpgU Pick plantingWe got a good start on the U-Pick garden: Bachelor's Buttons, Rocky Mountain Garland, Corn Cockle, Calendula, Shirley Poppies, Queen Anne's Lace, and Gladiola bulbs. Also 8 rows of Sugar Snap Peas. Dahlias going in today. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/img_8228.jpgPlantingSo many things planted ahead of the gentle rain. Greens, roots, and peas outside. A month ahead of last year!https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/img_8175.jpgBeet GreensThese beet greens are so close! One more week and they'll be in our bellies!https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/img_8174.jpgTiny TurnipBy next week, these turnips will be big enough to eat, and we'll need to harvest half as many to satisfy everyone. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/img_8211.jpgPeas on TrellisThe greenhouse peas are taking off! I had to tie them up today to keep the aisles open for picking. We should be feasting on peas in 3-4 weeks!2018-04-21T15:28:01+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2018/04/10/the-2018-season-begins/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/img_7630.jpgRainbow ChardRainbow Chard is the Skittles of vegetables. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/img_7634.jpgU Pick DaffodilsMake sure you stop and pick the flowers! U-Pick flowers are available during CSA hours: Saturdays after Noon, and Tuesdays after 2:00. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/img_7633.jpgCSA Week 2Swiss Chard, Kale Mix, Broccoli Raab, Green Shallots, and Sorrel or Parsley or Salad Mustard. Plus U-Pick Daffodils and Tulipshttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/img_7700.jpgTiny FrogMy greenhouse pest control front man is on-duty. 2018-04-10T19:30:45+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2018/03/09/pining-and-planning-for-spring/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/img_6005.jpgMouse TrapWith the feed mill down the street, we always have a rodent problem here. Rats, mice, and voles. I have to set traps for mice and rats in the greenhouse, and right now they're liking the peas, so that's the bait I use. Later I'll change to basil and cabbage seed. Our little terrier mix, Mario is an amazing ratter, and Cosmo gets paid a bounty for shooting them with his air rifle. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/img_6029.jpgPea TransplantsI planted sugar snap and shelling peas in mid February, on top of a heat bed in the greenhouse. I'll be planting them in the ground this weekend, and we'll be eating them mid-May through June! https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/img_6041.jpgPlanted GreenhouseIt's finally not freezing, and the days are getting longer, so I've started planting greenhouses. This one is full of carrots! Another contains rows of radishes, arugula, salad greens, cilantro, dill, and chervil. Yet another will be full of baby turnips, beets, and more greens. These are the crops that we'll be harvesting in late April and May. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/img_5807.jpgPurple sprouting broccoliThe first Purple Broccoli sprouts are coming. We started these last July, and put the plants in the ground in August. That's 8 months of growing time. Can't wait for the CSA to start in just a few more weeks!https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/img_5806.jpgPussy WillowsWe're in a freezing spell—February is always the coldest month—but the Willow hedgerow is blooming. Pussy Willows are flowers, and their pollen is the first thing to feed hungry honeybees. They don't really need nectar in early spring, they need protein-rich pollen to feed their babies, and Willows are the perfect source.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/img_5905.jpgDeadnettle in snowWe may get snow in February, but the Purple Deadnettle is determined to stay blooming, just in case the bumblebees emerge and need feeding. 2018-03-10T05:20:13+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2017/12/31/the-end-of-2017/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/img_3384.jpgPapers SignedAt long last, on December 28, we signed the papers on the farm. We are now farm owners, renters no more.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/img_3149.jpgPurple SavoySavoy Cabbages are wrinkly, and more cold-hardy than their smooth brethren. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/img_3135.jpgFrozen, foggy morning35 degrees and foggy, winter harvest day. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/img_3337.jpgsnowy greenhousesWhite Christmas means work here! The forecast said rain was coming after the snow, so all the snow had to come off the greenhouses, lest they collapse under the weight. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/image1.jpegLast week of 2017 CSAThe final CSA pickup of 2017! Savoy Cabbage, Brussels Sprouts, Kale or Chard, Onions, Garlic, Delicata Squash, Two kinds of Potatoes, Candy Carrots, Sweet Beets, and Radicchio. 2018-01-01T06:54:50+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2017/11/22/csa-week-35/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/img_3021.jpgSpring Onions and GarlicThe Spring Onions are coming along, and the garlic and shallots for 2018 are all planted and tucked in with covers to keep out the crows. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/img_3004.jpgSavoy CabbageSavoy Cabbage is a wrinkly, winter treat. The heads are lightweight but the leaves are thick and meaty. Not ideal for sauerkraut, but delicious in a soup or sliced into steaks and roasted, OR used for cabbage rolls. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/img_2975.jpgCSA Week 35Thanksgiving treats! 2017-11-22T20:36:47+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2017/11/02/csa-week-31/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/img_2762-e1509648172141.jpgCauliflowerCauliflower is my favorite vegetable. And Fall Cauliflower is the queen of them all. Frost-sweetened, fewer bugs, and all deliciousness. Raw or roasted, in soup, stir-fry, even steamed. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/img_2718.jpgRainbow ChardGlowing colors of Rainbow Swiss Chard stems. They are the best part of the chard. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/img_2754.jpgSpring Onions PlantedAfter a year of Total Onion Failure, I'm setting up for a Season of Onion Abundance in 2018. I ordered about 6,000 onion transplants that we'll (hopefully) be able to start harvesting in April, just as we're getting ready to plant the main crop of onions for the rest of 2018. Torpedo and Walla Walla. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/img_2756.jpgCSA Week 32Cauliflower or Cabbage, Delicata Squash, Carrots, German Butterball Potatoes, Beets or Bok Choy, Chard or Kale, and lots of Garlic. 2017-11-02T19:18:38+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2017/10/24/csa-week-30/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/img_2650.jpgRainbow Chard10 years ago we could still overwinter Swiss Chard in the field. But something has changed, and the last several years it's all frozen to death by Thanksgiving, and it doesn't come back. So this year, I planted one of the greenhouses full of chard back in August. It's huge and beautiful even though we've already had several frosty nights. The extra shelter should guarantee that it comes back in the spring for a repeat harvest as well! https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/img_2619.jpgQuincesWhen the kids were toddlers, I planted 8 Quince trees. They've produced some fruit the last few years, but this year it's a bumper crop! There's enough to make them a CSA choice, as well as selling at market. If you're not sure what to do with them, read on...https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/img_2660.jpgCSA Week 30Fall Bounty. Potatoes, Butternut squash, Purple Carrots, Green Onions, the last of the Peppers, and lots of greens. 2017-10-25T06:02:08+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2017/10/02/csa-week-22-23-24/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/170925_pr.jpgCSA week 24https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/img_0887.jpgIMG_0887https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/img_0979.jpgIMG_0979https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/img_1043.jpgIMG_1043https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/img_1044.jpgCSA Week 222017-10-03T05:11:17+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2017/08/29/csa-week-19/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/img_0705.jpgGreenhouse ChardMostly we use the greenhouses to get an early jump on spring, and reliably grow peppers and tomatoes. But we can also use them to push a number of crops into the fall. Here we've got a final round of Swiss Chard, Basil, and Parsley started. Basil will make it into October, but the other two will hopefully last until Thanksgiving and then regrow in the spring for an early crop. (We're also working on Green Beans and Broccoli! Fingers crossed!)https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/img_0710.jpgMelons are comingI planted two rows of melons in a greenhouse, just in case they worked. One row of cantaloupe-type melons, and one row of heirloom French melons. These are going to be my favorite, I know. Noir de Carmes and Prescott Fond Blanc. There will be plenty for everyone!https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/img_0692.jpgFetal BroccoliThis round of broccoli and cauliflower are looking great. CSA will get nice crowns in two weeks or so!https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/dsc_5001.jpgCSA week 19So much summer! 2017-08-30T00:52:00+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2017/08/17/csa-week-16/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/img_0243.jpggreen beansBeautiful green beans. I just sauté them in a little butter until they turn bright green. So delicious!https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/img_0513.jpgno more smokeThe first day of sky after the wildfire smoke cleared. What a relief!https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/img_5428.jpgCSA week 16We may not have onions this year, but our garlic is abundant, and so are the beets! And we're rolling in green beans. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/fullsizerender.jpgspinach close upSpinach is fickle in the summer. It refuses to germinate if the soil is over 70 degrees, and it will bolt (go to flower) if the temperature stays too hot for too long. But we just keep on trying...2017-08-17T17:19:24+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2017/07/16/csa-week-12/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/img_9309.jpgBasil leavesBasil. Is. Coming. Almost big enough...https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/img_9521.jpgSunGoldThe first golden orbs didn't last long. So many are on the way: brace yourselves. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/img_9551.jpgCSA week 7bShades of green: lettuce, lemon basil, and marjoram.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/img_9550.jpgCSA week 7aSo much vitality here! Dense lettuces, hearty greens, Persian cucumbers, carrots, fave beans, garlic, and heavenly herbs!2017-07-17T04:58:36+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2017/06/05/csa-week-7/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/18869972_10155357822379556_1330388530_o.jpgGinaI've known Regina Grubb a long time. She was a CSA member many years ago, and teaches horticulture at Auburn Mountainview High School. She was first to jump in and help with watering the greenhouse starts and keeping the farmers market space alive. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/dsc_4197.jpgTrinity and her whole familyWhen I came home from the hospital, I was on orders not to do any heavy work. But I was pretty weak anyway and needed a lot of rest. Trinity (in the back) has been working for us since April. Her entire family volunteered to plant onions last week. It was an incredible gift. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/170603_project-life-71c4f3.jpgCSA Closeups Week 7Snap Peas, Colorful Carrots, and Thyme Flowers.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/dsc_4314.jpgCSA Week 7Lovely treats for our return to CSA: Baby Carrots, Sugar Snap Peas, Green Shallots, Napa Cabbage, Fresh Thyme, and Rhubarb.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/dsc_4243.jpgChrisChris started farming a few years ago, but now he's renting two acres of our farm and we're mentoring him. It's a great relationship, and he has been a huge help while I've been in the hospital and recovering. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/dsc_4228.jpgPoppiesVolunteer Poppies from the U-Pick flower garden two years ago. 2017-06-15T07:20:41+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2017/05/12/csa-weeks-5-6/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/170506_project-life-d7725e.jpg2017 CSA week 6Spring Onions, Pea Shoots, Spinach, Green Garlic, Salad Turnips, and Parsnips.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/image1.jpgimage1https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/dsc_4147.jpgTractor reflectionWe can't work up ground for planting when there is water standing in the field. And so we wait. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/dsc_4145.jpgPuddlesAll the rain this spring has put our planting schedule 5-6 weeks behind when we've planted the last two years. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/dsc_4132.jpgJackieJackie may be small, but he's a brave family man, looking over his harem and finding them tidbits to eat. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/dsc_4130.jpgSpring OnionsWe start out our season with Spring Onions, leftovers from last year's onion crop that were missed. 2017-05-12T23:42:42+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2017/04/24/csa-weeks-3-4/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/170415_project-life-56c62b-2.jpgCSA 2017 Week 3Parsnips, Rapini (Broccoli Raab), Spring Onions, Pea Shoots, Green Garlic, Mixed Cooking Greens, and U-Pick Tulips and Daffodils. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/dsc_4023.jpgCooking GreensOur Cooking Greens bags are made of frilly kales and beet greens. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/dsc_4020.jpgRapini BudRapini, also known as Broccoli Raab, consists of the flower buds and tender leaves of the overwintered turnip plants. They're juicy and tender, and sweet, with a touch of bitterness. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/dsc_4019.jpgTulipsMixed tulips from the U-Pick rows. CSA families only!2017-04-26T02:07:33+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2017/04/09/csa-week-2/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/170408_project-life-380099.jpgCSA Week 2 2017 collageGreen Garlic, Purple Sprouting Broccoli, Rapini (a.k.a. Broccoli Raab), Pea Shoots, Spring Onions, and tender Mixed Kales. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/dsc_3871.jpgPurple KaleAll the colors of kale.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/dsc_3869.jpgRapini and tendrilTiny Rapini buds with a twisty pea shoot tendril. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/dsc_3864.jpgPurple BroccoliPurple Sprouting Broccoli. Eat it all: stems, leaves, and florets.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/170404_project-life-e7fb711.jpgCSA Week 1Spring is the greenest season, but we've spiced it up with a bit of purple! Bottom left: Miners' Lettuce and Purple Broccoli. Bottom Right: Kale Broccolini. 2017-04-10T15:31:25+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2017/02/03/eating-the-world/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/img_2952-e1486147460588.jpgSeed catalogsMy desk is covered in seed catalogs. I've taken care of ordering seeds for the staple crops, but now the fun begins. 10 kinds of Solanum berries, 5 kinds of Andean tubers, purple Napa cabbage, green daikon radish. There are so many things to eat!2017-02-04T01:09:34+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2016/12/28/november-2016-mystery-box/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/dsc_3224.jpgMystery Box Watermelon RadishInside this winter-hardy Watermelon Radish there's a surprise...the inside is bright pink! They're a bit more dense and spicy than a spring radish, but they are delicious in a soup or pickle. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/dsc_3226.jpgMystery Box Orange CauliflowerCauliflower comes in many colors, including green, purple, and orange! The orange is a bit more delicate than the others, and it's higher in beta carotene. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/dsc_3233.jpgMystery Box MedlarThis ancient fruit was once very popular, and can be seen in Medieval manuscripts. Medlars are related to apples and roses, and when allowed to soften, or "blet", the flavor and texture are like applesauce mixed with dates. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/dsc_3255.jpgMystery Box Salad MustardSpicy Scarlet Salad Mustard is similar to arugula, but with a kick. Enjoy it as a garnish, to spice up a sandwich, or straight. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/dsc_3251.jpgMystery Box Dry BeansThere are hundreds of heirloom dried bean varieties, having been cultivated for generations in their native America. This year we grew Cannelloni, Jacob's Cattle, Calypso, and True Red Cranberry. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/dsc_3247.jpgMystery Box PopcornMiniature Calico Popcorn grows on a cob, just like sweet corn. Put the whole cob in the microwave to pop, or rub off the kernels and pop in a pan. Beautiful AND tasty!https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/dsc_3243.jpgMystery Box QuinceQuinces are related to apples and pears and have been grown since medieval times, but they aren't eaten fresh. Cook them for a rosy, delicious sauce or dessert. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/dsc_3241.jpgMystery Box HorseradishHorseradish is the zesty relative of mustard greens. Grated and mixed with a little vinegar and salt, it's a great accompaniment to meats and other vegetables.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/dsc_3237.jpgMystery Box ParsnipsParsnips are a very slow-growing relative of carrots and celery, and after a good freeze or two in the ground, they are sweet and delicious roasted, fried, or mashed.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/dsc_3235.jpgMystery Box Adirondack Blue PotatoesThese purple tubers are a highly-nutritious potato! Adirondack Blue are purple all through, and stay purple after they're cooked.2017-01-27T07:04:46+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2016/12/27/solstice-and-a-new-year/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/15555435_10154801603094556_357960880_o.jpgLast Week of Winter 20162017-01-04T16:52:06+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2016/11/23/winter-week-4-thanksgiving-2/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/img_1748.jpgCSA BoardKay (and her mom) did a fantastic job taking care of the U-Pick garden this year. Next year we're hoping to add more herbs AND the beans and cherry tomatoes. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/img_1777.jpgNovember RainbowA perfect double rainbow over our valley. In November. 2016-11-23T19:14:17+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2016/11/16/winter-week-1-brussels-sprouts-and-celery-root-2/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/15102306_10154699531774556_1161042938_o.jpgWinter CSA week 3Winter is here! Brussels Sprouts, Parsnips, and Squash! 2016-11-17T07:31:35+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/parsnips-much-more-than-a-white-carrot/2016-11-17T03:00:00+00:00weekly0.6https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2016/11/03/winter-week-1-brussels-sprouts-and-celery-root/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/14964046_10154655732239556_1326611472_o.jpgWinter Week 1This is the earliest we've ever harvested Brussels sprouts, and I'm excited! They're big and beautiful and delicious! Hello, Potato Man!2016-11-08T03:22:45+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2016/10/26/the-last-week-of-fall-a-bit-of-everything/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/img_0611.jpgimg_0611https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/14859305_10154633668884556_516367045_o.jpgFall last week plus pumpkinThe last CSA week of Fall. Plus a pumpkin from our CSA-only U-Pick patch. 2016-10-27T03:06:35+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2016/09/15/fall-week-2-what-is-purslane/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/dsc_1916.jpgdsc_1916https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/dsc_1912.jpgPurslaneLia loves her purslane!2016-09-16T17:35:53+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2016/08/24/summer-week-11-catching-up/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/img_9377.jpgLate SummerCorn and Pole Beans in the background, Winter Parsnips covered for insect protection in the middle, and Sprouting Broccoli transplants for spring in the front. Late Summer is about all the seasons. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/dsc_1174.jpgCSA Summer Week 8Summer Week 8https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/dsc_1165.jpgCSA Summer Week 7Summer Week 7https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/dsc_1158.jpgCSA Summer Week 6Summer Week 6https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/dsc_1148.jpgCSA Summer Week 5Summer Week 5https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/img_3861.jpgCSA Summer Week 4Summer Week 4 and our first farm potluck.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/dsc_1018.jpgDSC_1018Summer Week 32016-08-24T18:29:59+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2016/06/26/summer-week-2-lots-to-share/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/img_7832.jpgU Pick SignWe love our new CSA Welcome Sign. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/dsc_0997.jpgSummer Week 2, 2016This week's share is a bountiful one! And, the CSA-only UPick garden is open—pick all the Snap Peas, Shelling Peas, and flowers that you want—one of the perks of joining our CSA!2016-06-27T23:58:56+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2016/05/28/spring-week-8-the-hectic-beginning-of-summer/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/img_7167.jpgPea TunnelOur experiment with growing early Sugar Snap Peas in one of the greenhouses has been an overwhelming success. We started the plants in early February, and trellised them as high as we could. The vines reached eight feet tall, and then fell over. Nonetheless, they were loaded with peas and we've picked for four weeks. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/img_7370.jpgU-Pick PreviewGabe, our new intern, has been doing a stellar job taking care of the U-Pick Garden this spring! The peas and strawberries are blooming and the we've had a hint of cut flowers blooming as well! It should be ready just in time for the first Summer CSA pickup!https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/dsc_0947.jpgSpring Week 8Green Shallots, Spinach, Spicy Red Mustard, Nasturtium Flowers, Carrots, Sugar Snap Peas, and Garlic Scapes!2016-05-29T04:11:55+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2016/04/13/spring-week-3-spring-limbo/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/img_5989.jpgU Pick PeasThe U-Pick Garden is off to a great start! Gabe the Intern has been working hard to get Shelling Peas, Sugar Snap Peas, Cutflowers, and Strawberries planted. It's so exciting!https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/img_5962.jpgBaby TurnipsAfter eating hearty greens for so long, the first tender turnips and greens are soooo sweet!https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/dsc_0468.jpgSpring Week 3, 2016Spring Limbo begins: The end of the overwintered crops, and not quite time for the spring-planted ones. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/img_5908.jpgTiny CarrotsThe greenhouse carrots planted in February are starting to look like carrots! I'm guessing two more weeks, maybe three, until harvest. 2016-04-13T19:13:23+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/farm-learning/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/20130709_154450.jpgFarm kids walk the farmFarm Kids get a tour of the farm, looking for and sampling herbs and greens to put into their salad. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/20130709_164908.jpgFarm Kids chick handlingFarm Kids learn how to handle baby chicks. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/img_2883.jpgFarm Kids mystery seedsFarm Kids sowing their mystery bags of seeds.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/img_2992.jpgFarm Kids pumpkin brandingInscribing a baby pumpkin...to find in the fall. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/img_2885.jpgFarm Club potatoesFarm Kids digging digging potatoes!2016-04-13T18:16:48+00:00weekly0.6https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2016/03/28/spring-week-1-early-but-no-cigar/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/img_5529.jpgPlum BlossomsThis ancient Greengage Tree is the oldest living thing on our farm. Over 100 years old, most likely, and she blooms heavily every spring. But we only get fruit once a decade or so. Like eating honey. So delicious are those neon yellow-green fruits! https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/broccolicaper.jpgbroccolicaperOur amazing first week of Spring CSA! Someone was very excited to dive in!https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/img_5641.jpgPurple Sprouting BroccoliPurple Sprouting Broccoli looks like lilacs just getting ready to bloom. We sowed seeds last June, transplanted outside in July, and now we reap the fruits of all that labor. 9 months. 2016-03-29T04:31:10+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2016/02/17/early-spring-surprises-and-mystery-boxes/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/img_4688.jpgNapaNapa Cabbage, planted in the greenhouse in September is ready to flower now in this early spring.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/img_4687.jpgSprouting BroccoliWe planted almost 1,000 of these last July, hoping that they would be a lovely change come spring. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/img_4686.jpgBolting KaleKale is durable, hardy, and delicious through the winter. But this is the reward for waiting all winter: Kale Broccolini. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/img_4155.jpgFlower SproutsThese were a big experiment last year. They are a cross between Brussels Sprouts and Red Russian Kale. They take 140 days to mature from transplanting (which we did in July) and we've been devouring them all winter. Sweet, and lovely to look at. We like them sautéed with garlic or roasted in the oven.2016-02-17T20:34:13+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2016/01/14/the-slow-season/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/img_3914.jpgCrazy IceFrozen puddle on top of frozen mud. January is cold.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/img_3844.jpgWinter Week 9, 2015The final haul for our 2015 CSA season. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/img_3922.jpgFrosty KaleFrozen fog on Rainbow Lacinato kale.2016-01-14T21:15:26+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2009/12/01/brussels-sprouts/2015-12-17T19:41:54+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2015/12/17/winter-week-7-and-8-solstice-sprouts/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/img_3341.jpgFlooded BeesUsually we don't have any real flooding on our farm. But we had about 8" of rain in two weeks, which resulted in a lot of surface water with nowhere to go. The bee hives are just barely out of the water. Good thing they're on 1' risers!https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/img_3362.jpgBrussels Sprouts CloseupUp close and personal with the Sprouts of Brussels.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/img_3488.jpgBrussels Sprouts CarbonaraMmmm...Brussels Sprouts and bacon...https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/img_3535.jpgDonkey rainbowThe pot of gold lies in the donkey pen. 2015-12-17T19:34:19+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2015/12/04/winter-week-5-we-survived-the-freeze-and-gift-cards/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/img_2957.jpgFrozen ChardUnfortunately, Swiss Chard is one of those crops that doesn't handle freezing weather well. It hung in there down to about 24°, but repeated nights below 20° weakened the stems and it's very sad now. But not dead. It may come back in the spring. At any rate, it was really pretty covered with frost. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/img_3013.jpgEscarole under coverUndercover Escarole. Safe and cozy with its' other chicory cousins while the freeze goes on outside. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/img_3079.jpgGift CardsTrying something new this year: We're selling reload able gift cards to our farm! You can load them in any amount, and use them any time you want! A great gift for friends or family who want to eat clean, healthy food, and redeemable from our farm at farmers markets or use it toward a CSA share! We get the funds right away so it helps us just like buying a share. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/img_3195.jpgGreenhouse BeginningsWe received a grant from NRCS to build a greenhouse, but we're adding two more big ones to the farm this winter. This is phase 1: Laying it all out. We're so excited to be able to grow even more early spring and winter crops, as well as more hot weather crops in summer. Maybe ginger, lima beans, melons,... so many possibilities. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/img_3191.jpgRat DogThis is the exhausting life of the rat-hunting dog. You'd never know he's quick and vicious with the rodents. 2015-12-05T07:17:51+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2015/11/02/falling-into-winter/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/img_2330.jpgGiant CauliflowerThe Brassicas this fall are stunning—it's been a challenge to keep the cauliflower heads and broccoli crowns at a manageable size. This one was easily bigger than my head. They're delicious this time of year though, so eat up. So far, no frost!https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/img_2348.jpgCoopers HawkThis little woodlot at the back of the farm is an incredible source of biodiversity. It's full of songbirds, frogs, and raptors! This Cooper's Hawk wouldn't let me get any closer, keeping an eye on me in the cauliflower from its' bean-pole perch. It was a beauty—and scared all the songbirds away for a bit.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/img_2491.jpgHorseradishFreshly-grated horseradish is surprisingly pungent. Clear sinuses all around!https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/img_2568.jpgMario in CauliflowerMario and I scoping out the Brassicas for our first Winter CSA harvest. Hard to believe we have such a beautiful, bountiful harvest the first week of November!2015-11-03T15:04:22+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2015/09/18/fall-week-2-a-bit-of-everything/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/img_7288.jpgCSA Fall Week 2Delicious Fall!https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/img_0876.jpgBaby CornI've had a hankering to try growing baby corn for a few years, and this year I got it planted. They're cute, but they're also delicious stir-fried with broccoli, sauéed in butter, or used in soup. Very tasty!https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/img_0926.jpgBaby Corn stir-fryHere's a baby corn, stir-fried with broccoli, green onions, and part of a red pepper. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/img_1048.jpgFall BrassicasThe big crop of Fall and Winter Brassicas are looking really good! We should be picking in October, and into the winter!2015-09-19T06:00:44+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2015/08/31/summer-week-12-weathering-changes/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/img_0586.jpgJeff and CosmoOur new intern, Jeff, has quickly settled in and is already a huge help. Here Cosmo is showing him how to use the transplanting machine to put in the last of the cabbage plants for winter. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/img_0640.jpgBaby CauliflowerJust a couple weeks to cauliflower harvest! https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/img_0702.jpgSpinach SproutsAt last, spinach has sprouted. We've been trying for weeks, but the soil was too hot and dry. Success. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/img_0789.jpgPurple Carrot FlowersThe purple carrots didn't make many big roots, but they did make pretty flowers! 2015-09-01T05:07:45+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2015/07/30/summer-week-8-whats-happening/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/dsc_7480.jpgDSC_7480https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/img_0194.jpgBroccoliThe Broccoli we picked earlier was our "just-in-case" planting, and it was half the size of a planned crop. Our main-season crop is just about ready to harvest. Nice, big crowns on happy plants. And Cauliflower and Cabbage are coming along as well. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/img_0195.jpgLots of BeansHumungous bean crop coming on. Look for tender, skinny beans next week!https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/img_0201.jpgArtichokeArtichokes? Really? For August? If only there were enough for everyone. The plants are so, so short. They shouldn't be doing this until September.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/img_0193.jpgTomatoesThis is the first year in a great, long while that we have had ripe tomatoes before August. We'll be picking next week!2015-07-30T16:38:31+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2015/07/07/summer-week-5-dry/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/img_9794.jpgU Pick EntryYou can find the U-Pick Garden next to the cow barn. More flowers, cherry tomatoes, strawberries, and beans to come! https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/img_9806.jpgU-pick kidsMake sure and get in the u-pick garden to get peas while they're still there. The hot, dry weather is drying them up, even though I planted them in the coolest part of the farm. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/img_9820.jpgTomato GreenhouseThe tomatoes are going like gangbusters! All pruned and nowhere to go but up! Loaded with green fruits too, and it's only the first week of July!https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/img_9892.jpgPlastic MulchWe use black plastic mulch and drip-irrigation tape to suppress weeds and conserve water. Very important in a drought season like this year.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/dsc_6541.jpgCSA Week 5The bounty is ramping up!2015-07-19T05:32:10+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2015/06/24/summer-week-3-sweating-and-sweltering/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/img_9701.jpgKale Strawberry SaladI'm not usually a raw kale person, but our kale is SOOO tender right now, and I'm needing a break from lettuce, so I found this deliciousness. Recipe below. I admit, I scarfed down half of the batch.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/img_9705.jpgBroccoliBroccoli crowns coming to the CSA next week! This is the extra-early, take-a-chance, gamble crop that usually never works out. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/img_9711.jpgSunburned peaThe main planting of Sugar Snap Peas destined for CSA customers has gone rapidly downhill with all the extreme heat. We picked the first few for market, and then the rest either dried up or got sunburned after we watered them to keep them alive. There are lots in the cool shade of the CSA-only u-pick garden, and you can start picking them next week.2015-06-24T18:40:09+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2015/06/10/summer-week-1-is-this-july/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/img_4309.jpgIMG_4309First Week of Summer CSA. (Lovely photo courtesy Shawna at Sweet River Photography)https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/img_9355.jpgSquash plantingInstant Summer Squash patch, as Teo helps me set out transplants. Just a couple weeks until we've got squash!https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/img_9375.jpgGarlic ScapesGarlic Scapes are extra early this year...and there are enough this week for CSA members! Click on the menu link for cooking hints!https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/img_9436.jpgbaby turkeysThanksgiving turkeys have arrived and are doing well so far. Green heads mean Big Brown Turkeys, and no green means Regular Brown Turkeys. 2015-06-12T06:53:52+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2015/05/19/spring-week-8-spring-whooosh/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/img_9238.jpgDuck FamilyYesterday, this lady popped out of the bushes with her brood of 7 ducklings. Looks like they resemble their black and white dad! https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/img_9181.jpgCucumber PlantsWe got the first planting of cucumbers going in the greenhouse.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/img_9193.jpgCarrotsBecause. Carrots.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/img_9088.jpgChicken ForageChickens love bolting escarole as much as grass, so a quick rotation stop before we get ready to plant something else in this spot. Their job is to clean and fertilize, and turn whatever is left into eggs. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/img_9214.jpgGarlic ScapeThe first of the Garlic Scapes to appear! Two weeks until we start picking! Early, just like everything else. 2015-05-20T01:37:06+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2008/06/21/pea-shoots%e2%80%94the-vine-of-the-fruit/2015-05-20T01:00:26+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2015/04/29/spring-week-5-so-much-to-do/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/dsc_4385.jpgTeoMake sure and say hello to hard-working Teo! https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/dsc_4397.jpgSpring Week 5 CSALovely greens this week...and CARROTS!https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/img_8929.jpgBrassica FlatsFirst planting of brassicas ready to load into the transplanting machine! These Broccoli, Cauliflower, and Cabbages should be ready to harvest mid-June.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/img_8916.jpgSprinklers & Mt. RainierI don't know that we've ever turned on the sprinklers in April before. Beautiful weather means transplanting, and that means water. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/img_8985.jpgCarrots and RadishesApril greenhouse treat! Sweet and spicy purple radishes and tender carrots. 2015-04-30T05:53:43+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2015/04/13/a-farmer-rant/2015-04-16T03:45:34+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2015/04/13/spring-week-3-staying-flexible/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/img_8771.jpgAsparagusThe first asparagus of 2015—I sautéed them hot in a skillet with butter. So sweet and tasty!https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/img_8804.jpgRhubarbI'm so glad I did extra searching for a bright red variety of Rhubarb! They don't taste much different from the green stalks, but they're sure prettier!https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/img_8817.jpgSautéed GreensAfter Easter, my kids were begging for healthy food, "like greens". So, I mixed up the last bunch of broccolini, the last bunch of curly kale, and a small bundle of asparagus. With garlic and olive oil. Hits the spot!https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/img_8839.jpgCarrot GreenhouseEvery year we dedicate a little more greenhouse space to early carrots. This year they get a WHOLE 30' wide tunnel to themselves. Lots of carrots coming in May!2015-04-14T03:45:30+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2015/03/28/sprinter-our-new-northwest-season/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/603754_10152629834702554_5785146241362936902_n.png603754_10152629834702554_5785146241362936902_nThis is how we do crop rotation planning. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/img_8607.jpgCosmo and GarnetCosmo and his 3-month old heifer, Garnet. He wants a milk cow that he can raise from a baby. Yes, he'll be 13 when he finally gets to milk her. That's a lifetime. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/img_8617.jpgAsparagus tipsOur asparagus is green, but the emerging tips are always purple. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/img_8618.jpgRhubarbSpring means Rhubarb!https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/img_8639.jpgCosmo and ChicksCosmo, the Chick-Whisperer. 100 baby laying hens. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/img_8641.jpgOnion Plants40,000 onion plants have arrived, and are waiting here for their beds to be made so they can be planted. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/fullsizerender.jpgTeo and GarnetI think this is a Calfie—Teo is getting friendly with Cosmo's new heifer, Garnet. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/img_8692.jpgSpring OnionsTorpedo Onions that didn't get harvested last year, are the beginning of Spring Bounty.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/img_8712.jpgMintMint beds are freshly weeded and growing fast.2015-03-28T22:40:38+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2015/01/22/getting-ready-for-2015/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/img_7868-e1421982633300.jpgSpring DeskBookkeeping Break. Pretty pictures and dreams, seed books and schemes.2015-01-23T03:14:18+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2014/12/31/winter-week-9-i-dreamed-of-rapini/2015-01-01T07:45:47+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2014/12/12/winter-week-6-the-choices-we-make/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/img_7413.jpgIMG_74132014-12-12T23:01:06+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2014/12/02/winter-week-5-arctic-blast-episode-2/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/img_7267.jpgturkeysWe had twin turkeys for Thanksgiving, since they finished up smaller than expected. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/img_7240.jpgsnowy greenhousesBrrrr. The rogue chickens are looking for handouts—21°, It's a winter wonderland!https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/img_7228.jpgSnow blanketAt least for Episode 2 of Arctic Blast we got some snow! Snow before freezing is actually better, because it insulates the crops better and keeps them moist. That dry cold is a killer. There are radicchios under this snow, covered with frost blanket. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/img_7247.jpgwinter hummingbirdsIt 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. 2014-12-03T06:59:06+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2014/11/19/winter-week-3-4-damage-assessment/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/img_7076.jpgFrosty BloomsdaleSavoy (wrinkly-leafed) spinach is much more winter-hardy than flat-leafed spinach. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/img_7075-e1416291877314.jpgRomanescoAlthough Romanesco Cauliflower has a flavor somewhere leaning toward broccoli, it grows like a cauliflower plant with a central head wrapped in leaves.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/img_7101.jpgFrozen ChardOur Swiss Chard plants survived the week of freezing temperatures, but the leaves are cooked. Hopefully, they will grow new leaves after the weather warms. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/img_7100.jpgWilted KaleFrozen wind has a way of drying out plants that are supposed to be winter-hardy. Even the poor kale plants will need time and water to recover. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/img_7103.jpgFreezer burnWe had hoped the Endive and Escarole would survive the cold, so we would keep enjoying winter salads, but the outside leaves are freeze-burned, even though the center leaves are just fine. 2014-11-21T17:10:46+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2014/11/10/winter-week-2-polar-vortex-episode-1/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/img_6989.jpgBroccoliBroccoli, rescued from the icy grip of the Vortex, and into your CSA this week. Hopefully it will survive for another flush of sprouts. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/img_7032.jpgRowcoverGoodnight, Cauliflower. Preparing for the Arctic Blast by covering the nearly-ready cauliflower patch with frost blanket anchored by sandbags. Hopefully it does the trick. There are nearly 2,000 heads of Romanesco, Purple, and White cauliflower, nearly ready to harvest. They just need another week or two. Brussels Sprouts on the right, Cabbages on the left. Mount Rainier in the background.2014-11-12T02:22:46+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/cabbage-cauliflower-without-the-college-education/2014-11-11T05:27:09+00:00weekly0.6https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2014/11/04/winter-week-1-falling-into-our-winter-season/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/img_6724.jpgBrussels SproutsIn November, we decapitate the Brussels Sprouts plants so they will put all their energy into growing the nuggets in their leaf joints. Right now they are the size of a fingernail, but in a few weeks they will be walnut-sized. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/img_6714.jpgEndive at MarketCurly Endive is slightly bitter, but it's delicious in salad with fruit and cheese, or any other salty/savory combination. Those curly leaves hold lots of dressing!https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/img_6708.jpgTurkeys and DonkeysThe Turkeys finally got moved out to pasture! They really don't like being in a building, they like being ON things, so there's no point in building them a shelter. The donkeys are a little perplexed with them. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/img_6707.jpgCabbage PatchOur Fall Brassica field is looking amazing—and it's November! Cabbages of many kinds, Broccoli, Cauliflower—White, Purple, and Romanesco—all are coming to you in this wonderful Winter Season!2014-11-05T04:44:24+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2014/10/22/fall-week-8-the-rainy-season-finally-arrives/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/10733444_10205278073131802_1783759273_n.jpgFall Week 82014-11-03T04:50:21+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/pumpkin-pie/2014-10-12T05:18:55+00:00weekly0.6https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2007/10/04/winter-squash-information-and-recipes/2014-10-12T05:17:06+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/spaghetti-squash/2014-10-12T05:08:59+00:00weekly0.6https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2014/10/07/fall-week-6-fall-is-here-and-pumpkins/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/img_6540.jpgmoltingPoor Blue Boy. Molting is a rough time of year. Not only is he ragged everywhere, but he has zero tail feathers. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/img_6539.jpgPumpkinsPumpkins are ready!https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/img_6538.jpgDelicata"Delicata" Squash are easy to prepare and delicious. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/img_6532.jpgHashOctober Hash: Cubed "Yukon Gem" Potatoes, "Chioggia" Beets, Fennel, Torpedo Onion, and "Lipstick" Peppers. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/img_6531.jpgFennelFennel, halved, then cubed.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/img_6530.jpgChioggia"Chioggia" beets, with their telltale candy-cane striping. 2014-10-24T17:52:40+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2014/09/30/know-your-peppers/2014-10-07T03:34:44+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2014/09/15/fall-week-3-the-shift-from-summer/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/img_6118.jpgRobins nestCosmo was amazed to discover the size and construction of this abandoned Robins' nest. The mud is smooth and strong. He's become an avid birder this summer.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/img_6124.jpgFermentationI've taken to putting things in gallon jars with a basic salt brine and letting them ferment. In back: two gallons of garlic dill pickles, and in front a gallon of market leftovers. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/img_6156.jpgMystery tracksEvening visitors to the farm are becoming more frequent lately...Possum? Racoon? These were next to Coyote and Rabbit tracks. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/img_6158.jpgBees in BuckwheatThe honeybees are finally interested in our Buckwheat cover crop. Getting a good bloom of buckwheat makes the difference in helping the colonies load up with food for winter. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/img_6134.jpgratatouille'Tis the season for....Ratatouille!2014-09-16T06:39:44+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2014/08/19/summer-week-10-dont-be-afraid/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/img_5918.jpgTiny FrogI found this little guy while picking cauliflower. He's working hard to keep bugs out of your veggies!https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/img_5923-e1408456504659.jpgEggplants and PeppersSo exciting to have enough for everyone! Sweet peppers and Japanese eggplant. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/img_5924.jpgBlanching broccoliBefore freezing many vegetables, they need to be blanched to kill enzymes that could transform food while frozen. I just drop handfuls into boiling water, remove when starting to get tender, drain in a colander. Then I rinse in cold water and pack into bags. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/img_5927.jpgBroccoli and Pesto for the freezerWe have pesto for dinner on Mondays, so instead of just making enough for dinner, I stuffed the food processor twice and made enough for four dinners—three go into the freezer for later. I also put away six meals worth of broccoli. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/img_5929.jpgPickle PrepWith big cucumbers, you can do slices or spears to get more into the jar. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/img_5930.jpgRefrigerator PicklesMaking pickles can be quick—I put this jar of slicers together in about 15 minutes. And that's because I decided to put a sliced onion in the jar so I unpacked and repacked everything. 2014-08-30T04:43:57+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2014/08/05/summer-week-8-too-busy-to-think/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/img_5787.jpgField of CabbageThat's a lot of cabbages!https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/img_5805.jpgDragonflyFound while picking cauliflower and cabbage...https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/img_5806.jpgCabbageA growing cabbage is a beautiful thing.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/img_5827.jpgPesto KitJust $20 for CSA members! Get your Pesto Kit soon, while Basil is in its' prime!https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/img_5834.jpgPoemWilliam the Poet and his apprentice (busking at the University District Farmers Market) wrote these poems for us last week. Fitting tribute.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/img_5839.jpgWeek 8 DinnerSeasonal dinner for this week: Sautéed Green Beans and Sweet Onion, raw Cauliflower and dip, and pasta with Basil Pesto. And grilled wild salmon. 2014-08-05T16:58:58+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2014/07/22/summer-week-6-from-beans-to-broccoli/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/img_5728.jpgBroccoli in the cabbage patchSo, a broccoli plant walked into a cabbage patch...https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/img_5704.jpgGoat helmetDon't be alarmed when you see Rigby with his new headgear. We had to come up with something to keep him from getting his head stuck in the fence. We were freeing him a dozen times a day, and eventually the worse was bound to happen. Problem solved with a few hose clamps and pvc pipe.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/img_5689.jpgBox of basilBasil is in its' prime right now, and now is the time to place orders for making pesto! Pesto kits will be coming this weekend—keep an eye out!https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/img_5727.jpgChickens eating leftoversAt the end of a market day, we decide which things should go to the food bank, which can be saved until the next day, and which items go to the chickens. A little tired broccoli and fennel, mixed with chard and kale this time.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/img_5722.jpgTub of broccoliThe broccoli are heading up nicely, and there is enough for everyone this week! The large shares are getting the first cabbages!https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/img_5723.jpgPlanter PartsWe're getting ready to put all of our fall and winter brassicas into the ground, and it adds up to many thousands of plants. I know I am tired of bending over all day long, so when we found these transplanter pieces laying in the bushes, we decided to see if we could clean them up and get them to work. l make the job so much quicker and more pleasant. 2014-07-26T12:13:13+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2014/07/15/summer-week-5-summer-is-definitely-here/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/20140708_212851-e1405462644254.jpgWeighted Chickenhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/img_5664.jpgPurslaneJuicy, tart (for some people) and good for you—Purslane!https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/img_5661.jpgGreen BeansPea season has faded with the heat, but BEAN season is just beginning.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/img_5662.jpgThe ViewOne of the advantages of working in the evening—this amazing view from the bean rows.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/img_5663.jpgSnake TracksWhile you walk around the farm in this dusty season, keep an eye out for animal tracks, like this pair of garter snake tracks crossing the driveway. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/img_2932.jpgSquash BlossomsZucchini blossoms are making their premier in the Trading/Sharing Box today!2014-07-22T17:23:10+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2014/07/02/summer-week-3-heatwave/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/img_5572.jpgLadybug babyLadybugs, baby! Parent and larva, hunting aphids. A single ladybug can eat 5,000 aphids in its lifetime, so these are definitely beneficial to the farm!https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/img_5583.jpgOrange SnakeMy apologies to those who don't like snakes, but this garter snake was so beautiful! Usually they have blue stripes, sometimes red or yellow, but I haven't seen one so vividly orange before. A real beauty, and so valuable to the farm!https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/img_5536.jpgGreenhouse frameThe new greenhouse is nearly done. It just needs the skin and end walls. So close! https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/img_5573.jpgBaby BeansWe were able to get an early patch of snap beans planted, back in April, and here they are! Just another week or two until we can start picking! https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/img_5577.jpgIMG_55772014-07-15T22:55:18+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2014/06/19/summer-week-1-lettuce-begin/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/photo.jpgMayan JaguarBeautiful Mayan Jaguar lettuce. It's a romaine, so when it grows up a bit more, it will be a carnival of crunchiness. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/img_5415.jpgFood SaverIt's that time: I'm already putting away extras for winter. Strawberries, peas, that leftover bunch of spinach. Whatever. I just stash it away in a freezer bag for later. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/img_5453.jpgCosmo's FarmstandCosmo opened his farm stand last Saturday. He will be open every Saturday between noon and 2:00. We are working on a weekday post-work time as well. Probably Thursdays. We'll keep you posted.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/img_5467.jpgWeed DatingWhat do you think? Should we try this?https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/img_5463.jpgRow Cover in a TreeBetween glorious sun and torrential rain last week, a hurricane blew through. It ripped the row cover off of these hoops, and blew it into the tree behind. I really thought it was a giant spiderweb or tent caterpillar nest at first.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/img_5461.jpgCow TracksThe cows escaped and went walkabout the other night. It's always interesting to see where they've been.2014-06-19T14:09:39+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2014/06/11/spring-week-10-spring-is-over/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/img_5414.jpgNew GreenhouseIt doesn't look like much, but next week we will be planting tomatoes in this new greenhouse! https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/img_5423.jpgNasturtiums and BasilSummer is early this year! Never before have we been able to provide basil and nasturtiums in our Spring CSA. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/img_5388.jpgRogue HenRogue Hen #2 for this year popped out of the bushes last week with her brood. This one has 14 chicks, and she really enjoys getting into the barrels of brewers grain and kicking them out for her babies. She hangs out around the farm stand, so keep an eye out, but please give her space so the chicks don't get separated.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/img_5326.jpgWren NestLast year Cosmo hung this birdhouse up by the greenhouses. He is really excited that it is occupied this summer by a Bewicks Wren. 2014-06-11T18:00:40+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2014/06/03/summer-csa-season-approaches/2014-06-03T17:02:31+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2014/05/21/spring-week-8-things-are-hopping/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/img_4898.jpgRogue hatchOur first rogue hatch of 2014! This hen has secretly been setting on a nest of eggs and appeared the other day with 10 chicks. Happy birthday! I'm sure there will be more new families as the weeks go by. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/img_4895.jpgPea flowersFirst Sugar Snap Pea blooms! First crop of peas will be coming in June!https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/img_5080.jpgOrachRainbow-colored Orach, or "Mountain Spinach". It's a nutritious, cool-weather green that is very similar to spinach. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/img_5082.jpgRow cover tunnelYou've seen those row cover tunnels from the outside, but this is the inside view. Harvesting purple salad mustard. Good thing we're not claustrophobic. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/img_5083.jpgPotato planting800# of potatoes are planted! A little late, but the ground was so wet, this was the soonest we could get it ready. New potatoes should be ready in July!https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/img_5110.jpgFryers on pastureOur first bunch of fryers finally got moved to grass! It's been too wet to make the big move—they stress easily. But the weather seems to have settled, and Mike was able to do a lot of mowing. 2014-05-21T17:47:48+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2014/05/14/spring-week-6-summer-in-may/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/img_4870.jpgFava blossomWe got our Fava Beans in nice and early this year, and they're already starting to bloom. Should have beans mid-late June! Those notches around the leaves are from the dreaded Cucumber Beetle. Usually not too horrible a problem, but this year they are voracious. We're not convinced they are doing any real harm, so we are hoping the birds start feasting on them. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/img_4877.jpgPea Shoot PestoBright green and delicious! Pea Shoot Pesto!https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/img_4867.jpgRow cover completeThis is how the row cover looks when it's secured. We have pretty steady wind blow through every evening, so they need to be anchored well or they blow away.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/img_4868.jpgRow coverThe downside of sunny, warm weather is the first emergence of Flea Beetles. They love all things brassica, and anything in the potato/tomato family. We go to great lengths to keep our spring brassicas free of the nasty little biters. Our number one line of defense is floating row cover, but sometimes we have to do a quick spray of Pyrethrin to knock them down first. You can tell they've already been busy by the holes in the leaves. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/img_4872.jpgGreenhouse CarrotsIs there anything sweeter than the first carrot harvest of spring? We get a jump on it by planting the first week of March, in a greenhouse. 2014-05-14T15:00:58+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2014/05/01/spring-week-5-summer-in-april/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/img_4785.pngWeather ReportThis week's weather forecast: Looking promising for getting all of our new plantings settled—and we're ready for a wee break again anyway. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/img_4781.jpgBaby ChicksSarah and Cosmo are getting the May batch of meat chickens settled. These little guys will be ready for harvest in July. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/img_4780.jpgBaby RadishLovely little radishes. We are having them in our salads, but sadly, the tops are too tiny for bunching. They will need another week before we can harvest. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/img_4789.jpgGarlic and ShallotsThe garlic and shallots are growing beautifully in this warm spring weather. Just finished rototilling between the beds at dusk. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/img_4790.jpgBaby ChardWe got an early start with our kale and chard this year, by starting seeds in the greenhouse in March. Isn't it cool how even their roots are the color of the eventual leaves? 2014-05-02T05:14:02+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2014/04/24/weather-the-bane-of-spring/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/photo.pngphoto2014-04-25T05:05:07+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2014/04/23/spring-week-4-waiting-for-sun/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/img_4716.jpgEarly PeasThings seems to be growing slowly in the cold rain lately, but I force myself to remember that this time last year we were only just planting our first batch of peas. We should have Sugar Snaps and Shelling Peas a month earlier, if all goes well.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/img_4717.jpgBaby OnionsTeo has been hard at work transplanting onions. These are Red Torpedo variety, a semi-sweet Italian heirloom. We're guessing about 18,000 plants went into these beds. And there are still Walla Walla and storage onions to do. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/img_4709.jpgBeet GreensEarly Beet Greens from the greenhouse. A splash of red to perk up spring salads or a light sauté.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/img_4710.jpgTurnipsThey're getting bigger! They will never be the purple, hard, winter turnips. These Japanese babies are always sweet and tender. 2014-04-23T15:54:27+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2014/04/14/spring-crossover/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/img_4647.jpgBaby TurnipsWe weeded these last week and watered, and with the warm temperatures inside the hoop house they are ready to start picking! They'll be bigger as the weeks go by, but they are pretty succulent and sweet now. Use the leaves and all in salad, or lightly steam or sauté them. Very tasty!https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/img_4620.jpgLotsa EggsApril is for Eggs, and we have lots! Egg-laying productivity is directly related to day length, so as the days increase the laying hen's pituitary gland says "it's time to make babies!" Unfortunately, as the day length decreases toward the end of summer, so will the eggs disappear, so get them while they're here!https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/img_4646.jpgBaby LettuceWe planted in late February, aiming for harvest in the first half of our Spring CSA. We made it! Weeded today, so you can eat it tomorrow. No more grocery store salad!2014-04-15T16:08:21+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2014/04/07/spring-means-ducklings/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/img_4482.pngIMG_4482https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/img_4460.jpgDucklingWe have hired a Special Patrol, to hunt slugs in our asparagus/rhubarb patch. That fuzzy cuteness belies the voracious hunter that he/she will become. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/img_4481.jpgSpringy SorrelOne of the delights of spring is the sour surprise of Sorrel!https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/img_4419.jpgPizza PrepDelicious Green Garlic and Rapini to put on my pizza!2014-04-09T03:49:52+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2014/04/01/finally-spring/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/img_4368.jpgChicken Mobile HomeWhat do you do with a leaky trailer? You turn it into a hen house! Fixtures removed, cupboards converted to nest boxes, and plenty of roost space. Room for 160 hens, and it's easy to move around the farm. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/img_4375.jpgRapini and EggsThis was one of our dinners last week—rapini sautéed with garlic and scrambled eggs. Both in great abundance in March. 2014-04-08T03:52:28+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2014/02/08/calf-ventures/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/img_3852.jpgLearning to LeadFirst day, attached to a post. The rope on the ground is a temporary drag rope—I only use this for a few days, until she lets me catch her halter. At first I need a handle because she runs away from me. The wood walls are just to keep her from getting her hoofs caught in the fence during the initial tantrums.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/img_3856.jpgNew ClothesIt's pretty interesting when your buddy gets new clothes. In this case, Matilda got a pretty pink halter and Hemi the steer is checking it out.2014-02-09T21:01:51+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2014/02/05/winter-break-2014/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/img_3801-e1391147759233.jpgBolting TatsoiI was so excited to see that the Tatsoi survived the freezing weather, but disappointed that they are all bolting already. They know spring is on the way and they want to be FIRST to bloom. See the little flower bud in the center?https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/img_3848.jpgEnd of BeansLast year's beans, ravaged by winter.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/img_3835.jpgSpring GarlicGarlic loves freezing weather, but these little shoots are excited that spring is coming!https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/img_3834.jpgCosmo and DonkeysPenny, Pete, and Cosmo.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/img_3876-e1391147342369.jpgFarm PanoramaBreaking ground in early spring (or winter) is a happy sight. The bright green overwintered weeds and cover crop lying next to dark brown, rich earth. 2014-02-06T07:32:01+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/breaking-into-winter-squash/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/img_1985.jpgBig Squash 9Here is the food mill in action. Creamy purée comes out the screen in the bottom and is ready to use. This 20-pound pumpkin yielded about 10 quarts of purée. I made a big batch of soup with 4 quarts (and froze half of the soup), and then froze the rest of the purée for later, in 2-quart packages.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/img_1984.jpgBig Squash 8When they're cool-ish, use a spoon or spatula and scoop the cooked flesh away from the skin. I like to use a Food Mill to purée because it leaves a little texture and removes strings and other inedible bits, and it's people-powered. But you can use a food processor or blender as well.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/img_1983.jpgBig Squash 7When you can poke a fork into the squash easily, they're done. Take out the pan and let it cool enough to handle. You can see that the chunks have collapsed and wrinkled a bit, so you know they're done. Don't let them get too dry or you won't be able to puree them as easily. Take a whiff of roasty, delicious pumpkin. Mmmm!https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/img_1982.jpgSmall Squash 5If you cut your squashes into rings and bake them, you can have cool teeth like these after you're done eating. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/img_1981.jpgSmall Squash 4Rub the cut edges and cavity with a bit of olive oil or butter to keep them moist and prevent sticking to the pan. Then turn them over and place them cut-side down on the baking sheet/pan. Bake at 350° for about 30 minutes. Poke them with a fork to see if they're done. If the fork slides in easily they're done. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/img_1980.jpgBig Squash 6If you have chickens, or pigs, they love all the squash and pumpkin guts. The seeds of small squashes and pie pumpkins can be cleaned and roasted, but the seeds of larger squashes have hulls and are not easy to eat. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/img_1979.jpgBig Squash 4You can cut the halves into as many pieces as you want. I just cut them into eighths usually. Scoop out the entrails from each piece with a spoon, so they're clean like the two at the top left. Then place the chunks cut side down on the baking sheet. I have a giant oven, with giant baking sheets, which is handy. You can also layer them a bit. They can get cozy.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/img_1978.jpgBig Squash 5You can cut the halves into as many pieces as you want. I just cut them into eighths usually. Scoop out the entrails from each piece with a spoon and place the chunks cut side down on the baking sheet. I have a giant oven, with giant baking sheets, which is handy. You can also layer them a bit. They can get cozy.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/img_1977.jpgBig Squash 3See! I had to rotate the squash and knife a few times to get all the way around, but once you get started it's not so bad. Take a whiff of that delicious, fruity, squashy smell. I LOVE it!https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/img_1976.jpgBig Squash 2I start by cutting the squash in half, just to one side of the stem. You can see where the knife is inserted. It does take a bit of muscle to maneuver around the whole thing, but you can do it! Keep your elbows braced into your body so you don't slip and cut yourself. 2014-01-11T04:08:20+00:00weekly0.6https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/chickens-for-eating/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/photo1.jpgTurkeysFull grown turkeys, just before Thanksgiving.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/img_03361.jpgBaby turkeysDay-old turkey poults, just arrived and warm in the brooder.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/img_0037.jpgBig turkeysTurkeys love fennel, as well as other market leftovers.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/broilers.jpegFryers, eight weeks old on pastureEight weeks old and at home on the range. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/broilers3wk.jpgFryers, 3 weeksThree weeks old, fully-feathered, and ready to move outside.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/fryersunderheat.jpgFryers, one day oldOne-day old chicks in the brooder.2014-01-07T18:32:45+00:00weekly0.6https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2014/01/02/winter-week-8-and-9-done-for-the-year/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/img_3729.jpgSolstice LanternWe made lanterns out of ice, lit with a candle, to celebrate our new farming year. Happy New Year!https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/img_3736.jpgIMG_3736https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/img_3781-e1388725935732.jpgBrussels SproutsYou can eat the fluffy tops of the Brussels sprout stalk, too. Tasty and sweet, just like kale or collards. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/img_3778.jpgBrussels SproutsWe had hoped that the sprouts would get a little bigger on the stalks, but we were late planting by a few weeks. Still, better than none at all. 2014-01-03T06:00:06+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2013/12/17/winter-week-6-and-7-pre-solstice-thaw/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/img_3612-e1387339804186.jpgCold LandscapeGreenhouses at six degrees. Brrrr. Below freezing for 10 days and this was the lowest point.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/img_3643-e1387339666462.jpgCabbage TopCabbage and Brussels Sprouts are cousins, and they look almost the same from the top view (aside from the difference in color). Cabbage head on the left, Brussels Sprout top on the right.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/img_3645-e1387339550352.jpgCabbage BottomThey look different on the bottom-side—Brussels Sprouts on the left, with tiny sprouts in the leave junctures (where they meet the stem) and Cabbage on the right, working on getting a head in life. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/img_3636.jpgPost-Freeze MustardIronically, all of the greens survived the deep freeze, but all of the large outer leaves that we were harvesting are cooked. Cells ruptured by microscopic ice crystals, limp and soggy. Eventually, the growing point in the center of the plant will produce new, healthy leaves, but sadly, that will be weeks or even months from now.2014-01-03T17:23:11+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2013/12/03/winter-week-5-freezing-and-flooding/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/img_3518.jpgIce puddleBrrr. Mud puddles can be pretty.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/img_35461.jpgSavoy CabbagesTender little savoy cabbages are sweet and delicious shredded and eaten raw, or steamed or lightly sautéed in butter. We'll plant a few weeks earlier next year so they get bigger. Oops.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/img_3590.jpgPotato DiggingCosmo helped me dig up the rest of the potatoes before the deep freeze arrives. Potatoes won't keep in the ground if it's below 26 or 27 degrees. We put around 1800 pounds in the cooler this weekend. He's a hard-working, cheerful helper.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/img_3564.jpgWinter BeesLast check-up of the bee hives before real winter. The goal is to squeeze them into the smallest space possible so they can keep themselves warm, while leaving them plenty of reserves to take care of brood in the early spring. Looks like we have three strong colonies now, but anything can happen through the long winter.2013-12-04T04:20:05+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2013/11/28/in-defense-of-the-turkey/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/img_3341.jpgTurkeysGentle giants. They are intrigued and inquisitive in a group.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/img_33531.jpgFlock of turkeysThree Toms vying for the Monarchy. The hens just go about their business, while they sort it out amongst themselves. They can puff up their feathers and fan their tails to make themselves look twice as big as normal, and they puff up their snood (the noodle thing on their beak) and wattles (the things on their chin) with extra blood to look more distinctive. The red, fleshy parts on their necks are called caruncles.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/img_2698.jpgBaby TurkeysWould you really expect newborn babies to be totally self-sufficient? Me either. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/img_2704.jpgCosmo & baby turkeyBaby Turkeys are precious.2013-12-15T21:01:11+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2013/11/25/winter-week-3-and-4-things-to-be-thankful-for/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/img_3515.jpgFrosty CeleryCelery, like Radicchio, is actually somewhat frost-tolerant. It looks sad for a bit, because the cold sucks water out of the stems, but soon they will return to normal. They just can't handle prolonged freezing.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/img_3513.jpgFrosty KaleFirst hard frost of the season. This makes me really excited, because at long last the kale that people have thought tasted so good is now going to taste amazing! Frost converts the starches in the leaves to sugars—nature's antifreeze. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/img_3496.jpgMatildaMatilda is 3 months old, and she is only just starting to eat plants. Here she nestles in the hay while her mom, Beauty eats breakfast. 2013-11-27T16:59:44+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2013/11/12/winter-week-2-season-of-roots-and-leaves/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/img_3139.jpgPurple Viking"Purple Viking" are a delicious heirloom potato. The skin is swirled in purple and pink, and the flesh is snow white. I find they're great for anything except mashing, and I love turning them into a bubbly gratin. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/img_3474.jpgCarrot Rust FlyOur only carrot pest, the Carrot Rust Fly, lays eggs in the soil when the carrot plants are young, and the larvae dig into the ground and tunnel into the sweet, tasty carrots. This is what they look like. It's a shame to throw away all the carrots with tunnels, so we just cut around them. They don't affect the carrots' flavor, but they are unsightly. We make our bunches just a bit bigger to make up for the damage.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/img_3473-e1384325097361.jpgDelicataTasty, golden "Delicata" Squash, also known as "Sweet Potato" or "Peanut" Squash. Mmmm.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/img_3471.jpgBaby TurnipsJapanese Turnips, also called "Tokyo Market" or "Hakurei", are tender, sweet, and delicious. They're even better when the weather turns chilly!2013-11-13T13:50:14+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/the-chicory-family%e2%80%94endive-escarole-radicchio-and-dandelions/2013-11-13T07:30:42+00:00weekly0.6https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2013/11/05/winter-week-1-season-of-roots-and-leaves/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/img_3337.jpgTurkeyCountdown to Thanksgiving.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/img_3353-e1383714249479.jpgTurkeys BoastingThree of the big boys, being machos.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/img_3366.jpgOctober BeesThese bees are amazing. Late October, and the girls are all out bringing in groceries from somewhere. Is anything even blooming? https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/img_3420.jpgKohlrabiKohlrabi are the alien spaceships of the vegetable world. 2013-11-10T19:28:08+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2013/10/25/summer-week-19-voting-and-a-poll/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/img_3306.jpgDella's DessertsDella is starting a CSA of her baked goods. She does a delicious job, and if you act now, she'll add on a pumpkin pie for Thanksgiving! https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/img_3206.jpgCarrots and beetsA delicious way to enjoy our abundance of roots this year! Roasted!https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/img_3219.jpgPumpkin patchCome and get your pumpkins! One of the perks included in our CSA program. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/img_3224.jpgHappy pumpkin pickerLea is so happy about her pumpkin!https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/img_3223.jpgFrosty squashOur winter squash patch next door was hit by frost, but it didn't make it to our side of the fence. 2013-10-26T06:11:47+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2013/10/09/summer-week-17-fall-is-here-2/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/img_3199.jpgSpaghetti SquashSpaghetti Squasheshttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/img_3169.jpgRadicchioField of Radicchio in the fall sunshine.2013-10-10T06:29:15+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2013/09/04/summer-week-12-fall-is-in-the-air/2013-09-23T17:16:55+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/broccoli/2013-09-02T20:04:39+00:00weekly0.6https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/refrigerator-pickles/2013-09-02T20:02:41+00:00weekly0.6https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2013/08/10/summer-week-8-broccoli-and-basil/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/img_3006.jpgBroccoli FieldThis year's Broccoli crop—beautiful and Clubroot-free on the neighbor's property. These plants are behind T & M's raspberry plants. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/img_1883.jpgField of ClubrootLast year's Cauliflower and Broccoli crop—decimated by Clubroot.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/img_1886.jpgClubrootClubroot is a fungus that affects mainly the Brassica family (all the broccoli, cabbage, turnips, kale, etc.). Once it's in your soil, it's there for seven or so years. The fungus inhabits the roots of the plant, making it impossible for it to uptake water and nutrients.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/img_2953.jpgNew CalvesDulce is here with her first calf, Charlotte (on the left), and Juniper's calf, Darkwing (on the right). Beauty (Dulce's 16-year-old mom) is due any day with her 12th calf. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/img_2947.jpgHummingbirdThis little girl keeps me company in the cucumber greenhouse. I think she enjoys the bed of nasturtium flowers when I'm not watching. She may have a nest in there, but I can't find it. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/img_2992.jpgFarm Club PumpkinThis week in FarmKids Club, the kids inscribed their future Halloween pumpkins.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/img_3013.jpgBroccoli CrownHere's a tidy little broccoli crown. The broccoli this year is amazing! https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/img_3012.jpgBroccoli Side ShootsOur favorite variety of broccoli is "Packman". Don't know why it's called that, but it's several decades old and produces a nice first crown. But the real reason to grow it is for the successive crops of side shoots—those little heads of broccoli that come in waves after the main crown is cut off. Look at all of them! 2013-08-12T05:04:02+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2013/07/25/summer-week-6/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/img_2886.jpgBasilBasil production is peaking already! It's luscious and tender, and perfect for Pesto! 2013-07-26T04:51:40+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2013/07/11/summer-week-4/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/img_2856.jpgsnap peasLike Christmas in July. Sugar Snap Peas!https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/img_2849.jpgcucumber flowerThe cucumbers are starting to bloom—two weeks until we are overrun with fruits!https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/img_2854.jpgThirsty beesHoneybees need water too! We shut off the sprinklers and the honeybees came in for a drink. 2013-07-12T16:15:38+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2008/08/25/purslane/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/photo-1.jpgpurslanePurslane is a succulent green that is high in omega-3 fatty acids. Juicy, tangy, and good for you!2013-07-11T14:45:05+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2013/07/06/summer-week-3/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/img_2829.jpgBaby DarkwingJuniper had this bouncing baby boy Tuesday morning. The kids in our first FarmClub collectively named him Darkwing. He's doing great, and we are enjoying having real, fresh milk in the house again, now that the crazy mommy hormones have diminished some.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/img_2812.jpgpea thievesThis is what bunnies do in the pea patch. If the pea plants survive the initial nibbles, they snack on pods and eat the peas inside. 2013-07-08T23:11:13+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2013/06/21/summer-week-1/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/img_2748.jpgPea FlowersThese are the chance early planting of shelling peas, thrown in the ground during the early warm spell in March. Every one of those flowers is going to be a pod—ready to pick in just another week or two.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/img_2754.jpgPotato FlowerThe potatoes are starting to bloom, and that means they are starting to form tubers! This pretty variety is Yukon Rose. Pinkish on the outside, yellow on the inside. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/img_2755.jpgPea ShootTender pea shoots in the morning sun. Make sure and enjoy them now, because their season is short.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/img_2761.jpgBee in PoppyThere are a bunch of flowers that volunteered from last year's cut-flower patch. One of our honeybees is enjoying a poppy here—you can see her loaded pollen basket. 2013-06-25T05:07:12+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2013/06/08/the-end-of-spring/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/img_2737.jpgcow pastureWe planted pasture on the north side of the farm this year, to let this 3-acre piece rest. The pasture is up and needs to be mowed before we put the cows on, and it's time to get the fence up! https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/img_2736.jpgBlackberry blossomsThe blackberries are blooming about two weeks early, but the honeybees aren't interested yet. It hasn't been warm enough to get the nectar flowing. Bumblebees are visiting but just for pollen. We need just a few more days above 70° for the nectar to flow.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/img_2735.jpgMondrian HivesDavid, my bee mentor, dropped off three of his hives to take advantage of our abundant bee forage. He likes Mondrian.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/img_2733.jpgChicken Mobile HomeThe older flock of laying hens moved in the night to their new pasture. It's always exciting to wake up in a new place. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/img_2665.jpgYes on 522We're doing our part to spread the word about the campaign to label genetically modified food in Washington. It will be on the November ballot. Let us know if you want a $1 button or if you need more information! YES ON 522!https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/img_2658.jpgShelley GraffitiWhat are the chances this would roll up behind the farm?https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/img_2704.jpgCosmo and baby turkeyCosmo can't resist snuggling baby birds. And baby turkeys are just SO sweet. 2013-06-14T23:28:54+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2013/05/15/spring-week-8-slump-week/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/img_2640.jpgMighty HunterWhen we noticed rabbits working their way down the rows of pea plants, Cosmo took matters into his own hands and went after them with the air rifle. Don't worry—clean shots. And no more peas are disappearing!https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/img_2652.jpgBaby BeansThe first planting of beans is up! I don't know when I have ever successfully planted beans in the first week of May. 50 days to green beans! https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/img_2651.jpgpotato sproutsThe first potatoes are popping up, reaching for the warm sun! 2013-05-15T18:02:11+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2013/05/09/spring-week-7-early-summer/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/img_2598.jpgUnder the Radish TunnelOur first planting of radishes is coming along under the protection of fabric tunnels. The tunnels keep the root maggot flies and flea beetles out. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/img_2601.jpgGreen GarlicGreen onions on the left, green garlic on the right. Fork in the middle of the road. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/img_2634.jpgBaby PeasOur first early planting of peas is coming along. Happy that we planted in the Easter dry weather window, we should have peas at the beginning of our Summer CSA season—mid-June!2013-05-09T18:01:10+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2013/04/23/spring-week-5-changes/2013-04-25T04:32:33+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2013/04/15/spring-week-4-battle-of-the-birds/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/img_2525.jpgPilfered SeedsThe mouse carefully dug out these zucchini seeds and nibbled out the meat inside, leaving the shells for me. Surprise! Replanted and covered with plastic domes for protection, round two.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/img_2511.jpgMario the Rat HunterTeaching the little dogs to dispose of rats. Here is Mario with his first dispatch. What a good boy!https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/img_2516.jpgBaby TurnipsThe Japanese turnips planted in February are looking lovely. Weeded, watered, and ready to grow! They need to be thinned, and they're tasty and tender, so enjoy raw or gently cooked.2013-04-16T05:27:17+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2013/04/09/spring-week-3-babies/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/77803036-0iguzzr1-_dsc4876eccopy.jpgTree SwallowsTree Swallows are a sure sign that spring has arrived. They are truly a great thing for our farm.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/60100549-dsc_0289ec.jpg60100549.DSC_0289echttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/78087878-pu2rqwtt.jpgTree SwallowTree Swallow. Courtesy Jean Durepos.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/http___nationalzoo-si-edu_scbi_migratorybirds_featured_photo_images_bigpic_tres23.jpgTree SwallowTree Swallows are a sure sign that Spring has arrived. They swoop and dive, catching insects by the hundreds. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/img_2496.jpgBaby FryersCosmo jumped in the car with me to run to the post office and pick up these little fuzzballs. It's hard to believe it will be only 8 or 10 weeks until they are ready to eat. This is the start of healthy, happy meat though.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/img_2492.jpgBaby PigsLillibet delivered 10 healthy babies. I love checking-in and finding everyone happily nursing with a contented mama. And then I quietly sneak away...2013-04-11T17:06:44+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2013/04/02/spring-week-2-a-beautiful-start/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/ladybugarugulaflower.jpgLadybug with Arugula FlowersApril Fools' Day, and the ladybugs are out, looking for nectar to feed on until they mate and lay eggs. The arugula is blooming. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/kalebroccoli.jpgKale BroccoliniWe usually put in a big planting of all the different kales in early fall. We harvest the leaves through the winter, but the sweetest reward comes in the spring, when we have lots of these delicious broccolini to pick. 2013-04-03T03:39:37+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2013/03/18/on-the-cusp-of-chaos/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/img_2317.jpgRed Raab-inRed Raab-in! Spring is here! We sampled the first overwintered turnip Rapini, or Broccoli Raab for dinner! These red ones are pretty bitter, but the sweet ones are just days away from being ready.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/img_2362.jpgGreenhouse SpinachSpinach seedlings in the greenhouse, newly cultivated. Planted February 25, they are just getting their first true leaves March 15. We will probably be picking these sweet babies by Easter. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/img_2363.jpgBaby SpinachBaby spinach plants. These are inside the big greenhouse, where it feels like May, instead of chilly March. We'll be eating spinach around Easter.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/img_2333.jpgHoneybees in early MarchOur honeybees in early March. My girls have been out foraging on willow and hazel pollen since February, and they're finding nectar somewhere as well. Pollen feeds the babies and nectar gets turned into honey. They won't bring home pollen unless there are babies to feed, or at least eggs being laid. So, it's a good indicator that there are queens in the hives, without having to pull out all the frames and examine them on chilly days. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/photobg_image.pngphotobg_image2013-03-18T19:40:47+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2013/02/21/mid-winter-break/2013-02-23T07:42:24+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/chickens-for-eggs/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/img_0817.jpgHens on nestsHens on nests. This is what "cage-free" looks like.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/img_0820.jpgEggsHens on pasture make the tastiest eggs.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/img_0315.jpgIMG_03152013-02-05T22:15:44+00:00weekly0.6https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/egg-faqs/2013-02-05T22:06:36+00:00weekly0.6https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/contented-cows/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/hpim0114.jpgBeauty and JuniperBeauty of Windy Acres, at age 13.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/img_06171.jpgDulce and Chester, 5-6 monthsYoungsters playing "king of the mountain". Chester (Juniper's 2011 calf) is winning, and Dulce (Beauty's calf) is challenging him. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/img_0287.jpgCows on temporary pastureWe are learning how to use our cows in our crop rotation. This is a temporary fence set up on an overwintered cover crop of rye and field peas. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/img_0144.jpgJuniper and ClementineJuniper with her 3rd calf, Clementine, at 1-2 days old. This is motherly love.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/img_0617.jpgPenelope, calfCute as a button. Matilda, Juniper's first calf. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/img_0300.jpgCows on pastureCows belong outside, on grass. It's that simple. 2013-01-12T04:16:10+00:00weekly0.6https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/the-forgotten-livestock/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/forgotstock.jpgLadybugThis ladybug is on pea shoot patrol. Do you see any aphids?https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/photo.jpgHoneybee in cornflowerHoneybees love the cut-flower garden.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/img_1094.jpgFrog in cauliflowerWe have an abundance of tree frogs on our farm. We find them everywhere. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/img_1050.jpgFrog in a squashLittle frogs keep the bugs away from infant squashes.2013-01-12T04:14:15+00:00weekly0.6https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/busy-bees/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/img_1650.jpgBeesHard-working honeybees.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/img_1603.jpgBee swarmWe were lucky the bees didn't go far when they swarmed. I was able to sweep them into a box and put them into an empty hive box.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/img_1622.jpgFour bee hivesAfter the swarm we have a real bee-yard. Four colonies. The two in the middle are the ones we started with this year.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/img_1876.jpgHoney2012 honey. The two big jars are from the last harvest—we had a lot of buckwheat blooming in late summer. The jar in the middle is from the beginning of the season, and is mostly clover or blackberry.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/img_1294.jpgTwo beekeepersTwo new beekeepers learning together. 2013-01-12T02:34:22+00:00weekly0.6https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2013/01/10/2013-csa-information-is-ready/2013-01-11T15:38:09+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/about-organic/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/p7130028-e1325975205318.jpgDirty DellaDon't worry, our dirt is clean! When Della was a baby, she loved to eat dirt. I didn't worry because I knew there were no chemicals in it.2013-01-11T03:50:42+00:00weekly0.6https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2013/01/07/winter-break/2013-01-07T18:43:53+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2012/12/19/solstice-nears-winter-weeks-7-and-8/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/img_2115.jpgIMG_2115https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/15686_474948289223499_994801388_n.jpg15686_474948289223499_994801388_n2012-12-21T03:53:20+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2012/12/06/rain-and-mud-winter-week-5/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/img_2003.jpgIMG_2003Purple Mustard Greens. Tender and tasty, with a bit of horseradish bite.2012-12-07T23:42:43+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2012/11/15/thanksgiving-winter-weeks-2-and-3/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/img_2025-e1353041227869.jpgWinter GreensThis week we picked (from l. to r.): Arugula, Brussels Sprout tops, and Mizuna.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/img_2032.jpgBrussels Sprout StalkTiny Brussels Sprouts on the stalk. A baby sprouts forms at the junction of each leaf stalk and the main stem.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/img_2029.jpgBrussels Sprouts PlantsFluffy, leafy Brussels Sprouts plants. We always prune the fluffy tops out of the plants about now, to encourage the plants to concentrate on making the sprouts larger. Otherwise, they'll just keep growing taller and sizing-up the sprouts from the bottom of the stalk up.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/img_2047.jpgSnail in the KalePicking yummy greens in the wet season means you might find a critter in them. It just means they taste good. It even happens to me. I just took it out and put it outside. No biggie.2012-11-19T02:57:46+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/how-to-cook-kale-or-collards-or-chard-etc/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/img_2036.jpgKale 2Kale leaf, stripped of it's thick stem. If your leaves are much bigger than this, chop them coarsely or slice into ribbons.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/img_2035.jpgKale 1A bunch of kale with the rubber band removed. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/img_2048.jpgKale 8As the leaves cook down, add another bunch and stir them in. I find it easier to use two tools. I like wooden spoons. It's easier to flip the leaves over without tossing them out of the pan, because the pan will get pretty full quickly.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/img_2046.jpgKale 9Once all the leaves have cooked down, add a little salt and pepper to taste. Sometimes I add a little good vinegar to the greens after they've cooked, other times I just let them be and we add balsamic vinegar at the table. The kids are especially fond of the dark, thick "syrup". https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/img_2045.jpgKale 7Once the garlic releases its aroma, add the leaves to the oil. Not too much—I added about one-third of my leaves at first. Then stir them around in the oil and let them cook down a bit. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/img_2044.jpgKale 6I chop up the garlic once it's peeled and add it to the hot oil in the pan (about medium-high heat). Stir it around until you can really smell the garlic, but don't let it burn.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/img_2040.jpgKale 5A long, long time ago I watched Julia Child on channel 9 with my mom. There was one show, where she was cooking with Jacques Pepin. She called him a Garlic Freak. I don't remember what he called her. He had a great technique for prepping garlic. Break apart the cloves and smash them on the cutting board with the flat side of your big knife. Put the knife on top and bang it down with your palm. Smash the garlic and the skin just pulls away. Then mince or slice it as you wish. If YOU are a Garlic Freak like I am, this is a great way to get a lot of garlic prepped at one time.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/img_2039.jpgKale 4Put enough olive oil (or coconut oil, or whatever you prefer) in the sauté pan. I'm cooking three bunches of kale, so I need the oil to cover the bottom of the pan or I'll just need to add more later.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/img_2038.jpgKale 3Stems stripped off of the kale leaves. You only need to remove the thickest parts of the stems. 2013-05-07T20:26:54+00:00weekly0.6https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2012/11/07/winter-begins-winter-week-1/2012-11-07T21:26:56+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2012/10/24/summer-week-19-fall-reigns/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/photo1.jpgLittle PulletsThe little pullets are about a month old now and have their first set of feathers. It's almost time to move them to bigger quarters! Only 6 months to go until eggs.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/photo.jpgPumpkin GatheringThe men bonding while hunting for pumpkins. The pumpkin patch got too weedy for people to walk in, so the boys gathered them up and moved them to the farm stand for easy picking.2012-10-25T04:58:26+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2012/10/04/summer-week-16-goodbye-to-summer/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/img_1899.jpgSunflowersOctober sunflower heads bobbing in the dry, fall breeze. There are still so many to take home from the cutflower garden!https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/img_1907.jpgHarvest Moon The Harvest Moon rises over the pole beans. 2012-10-10T00:38:04+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2012/09/18/summer-week-14-fall-colors/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/photo6.jpgSweet PotatoesAn amazing season produced our first amazing Sweet Potatoes! Several pounds per plant, and they are earmarked for Thanksgiving week, available only in our Winter CSA.2012-10-01T02:14:56+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2012/09/11/summer-week-13-local-history/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/photo2.jpgTomatoesThere are so many tomatoes that are ripening in the greenhouse!https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/photo.jpgCooking RomanosRomano Beans are delicious sautéed with Torpedo Onions in butter.2012-09-16T05:29:08+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2012/08/31/summer-week-11-blue-moon/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/photo2.jpgCone-headsThese cone-head cabbages are an improved version of the heirloom, "Early Jersey Wakefield". They taste just as sweet as round cabbages, but the pointy head is fun. Why improve it? Because the heirloom doesn't always head-up consistently, and not many people want a headless cabbage.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/photo1.jpgBuckwheatHoneybees love all members of the Buckwheat family. Japanese Knotweed is the giant of the family, bearing loads of nectar-rich blooms. Smartweed is a common weed around here too, but Buckwheat is the one we plant as a cover crop. It grows quickly in hot weather, doesn't need much water, AND produces a lot of bloom for the bees.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/photo.jpgBaby Pigs in MudWe let the baby pigs out to explore dirt and mud when they're between 3-7 days old. This is when they start instinctively looking for iron, and they love to root around in dirt and eat quite a bit. Pig milk (all milk, for that matter) lacks iron, but the growing little bodies need it, so once their immune systems are ready, out they go. When it's too cold outside I bring shovels of dirt into the barn for them to root in. Commercially, baby pigs are given iron shots at 3 and 10 days old to take care of this issue. I don't like giving tiny pigs shots—dirt is easier and makes them happy.2012-09-02T06:12:59+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2012/08/17/summer-week-9-some-like-it-hot/2012-08-23T16:31:54+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/cucumbers-some-like-it-hot/2012-08-17T16:34:57+00:00weekly0.6https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2012/08/02/summer-week-7-bean-tale/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/img_1731.jpgPole BeansOur u-pick beans are a colorful mix of purple, yellow, green, and stripes. All are snap beans, to eat fresh and whole. 220' of vines for CSA members to pick from.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/img_1725.jpgCucumbersIn the greenhouse, trellised cucumbers dangle from the netting supports like Christmas ornaments.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/img_1730.jpgFirst TomatoesThe Early Girl tomatoes are first to set in quantity. Won't be much longer until they start to ripen. They're growing like gangbusters now.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/img_1734.jpgBush BeansGreen beans love heat and water. Perfect conditions lately for a big set. 2012-08-03T06:00:32+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2012/07/19/how-to-pick-flowers/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/img_0622.jpgCut Flowers 1https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/img_0625-e1310700365365.jpgCut Flowers 3https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/img_0630-e1310700400409.jpgCut Flowers 4https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/img_0631-e1310700486830.jpgCut Flowers 5https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/img_0633-e1310700511225.jpgCut Flowers 6https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/img_0635.jpgCut Flowers 7https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/img_0637-e1310700560526.jpgCut Flowers 82012-08-04T19:36:56+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2012/07/19/summer-week-5-cutting-flowers/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/photo.jpgCucumber JungleIt's been about 10 days since I pruned and trained the cucumbers, and look what's happened! The vines are spilling everywhere. I had to do serious pruning today just to get in. There are so many little fruits though! We'll be rolling in cukes soon!https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/img_1691.jpgCucumbersPeek-a-boo! Cucumbers start setting fruit at the bottom of the plants, so the earliest harvest means crawling on the ground.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/img_1695.jpgPoppies and Bachelor ButtonsThe first to bloom are the Shirley Poppies and Bachelor's Buttons. There are many more though.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/img_1702.jpgKim picking flowersNow is the time to pick a huge armful of flowers in the U-Pick Flower Garden. Take a lot!2012-07-20T05:17:27+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2012/07/12/summer-week-4-the-battle-of-the-mink/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/img_1679.jpgmama minkMama Mink running across the driveway.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/img_1688.jpgSkinned MinkWhy let good pelts go to waste, when you can have a learning experience instead? My friend, Cathy and I learned how to skin Mink, and hopefully will successfully tan them as well.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/img_1690.jpgFeather TrailA trail of barred chicken feathers through a planted field. There are no footprints, so apparently a hawk caught a chicken and flew over with it. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/img_1687-e1342155775907.jpgThree dead minkThey look cute, but we have learned a lot about Mink lately. They are ferocious killers, and they kill for sport, not just for food. It's even worse when you have a mama teacher her three pups how to kill. 2012-07-20T00:27:50+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2012/07/06/summer-week-3-planting/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/img_1523.jpgPlanterThis is the Planet Junior hand planter that Mike's dad used for planting their Southcenter farm. Still in operation, but the wood handles have been changed. It works great for everything except the tiniest of seeds.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/img_1667.jpgTractor PlanterFor most row crops, except large seeded things like corn, peas, squash,etc. that need lots of space, we use the 1941 Farmall Cub with belly-mounted Planet Junior planters. This way we plant four rows at a time, and calibrate the cultivator implements to the same spacing to eliminate some hand-work.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/img_1666.jpgPlanter DetailThis is the spacing adjustment on the Planet Junior hand planter. The little dial spins up the threaded rod to adjust the opening at the base of the planter and let more or less seed out of the chute. I like the examples of seed sizes, from a different time, when Parsnips and Salsify were common vegetables.2012-07-07T16:47:59+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2012/06/26/summer-week-2-summer-rain/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/img_1664.jpgU-pick area 6.26The u-pick area for subscribers is nearly ready. Look at all those pea blossoms! They are going to be covered with pods soon, and that means easy picking! https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/img_1656.jpgCucumber BlossomThe first cucumber blossoms are setting fruits in the greenhouse. I'm predicting the first slicing cucumbers for everyone in three weeks. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/img_1645.jpgTomato GreenhouseRainy days in June are for doing inside work. Tomato greenhouse is ready for growing, with trellises up and weed-block fabric down. Tomatoes will be easy to see and pick this year.2012-06-30T21:40:52+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2012/06/20/summer-week-1-solstice-day/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/img_1638.jpgHenry's PathOur boar, Henry, decided to break out of his pen by shorting-out his electric wire and he went for a leisurely stroll around the farm before we could round him up. He spared most of the summer squash and cucumbers, just played with the drip irrigation tape and enjoyed the feel of plastic under his feet.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/img_1635.jpgRow coverTeo got the new carrot, turnip, and arugula patch covered with rowcover fabric to keep out the flea beetles (which eat leaves) and root maggots (which tunnel into roots). We should have a nice, tidy crop in a few weeks.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/img_1634.jpgNew Hive configurationTuesday afternoon one of the hives swarmed again, and I'm not sure which it was. I successfully caught them this time—in the box on the left. There are baby queens nearly ready to hatch in each hive, which is a better situation than the last time I checked, when there didn't appear to be queens anywhere.2012-06-21T04:46:20+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2012/06/13/spring-week-10-spring-treat/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/img_1616.jpgSugar Snap PeasGreen Candy. We've only had Sugar Snap Peas this early once in our 15 years, and we'll have them for a while—this is only our first planting. Enjoy!https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/img_1617.jpgBlackberriesThe wild blackberries are starting to bloom. This is where our serious nectar flow for honey lies. Also several weeks earlier than last year. 2012-06-14T04:58:38+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2012/06/07/spring-week-9-busy-bees/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/img_1572.jpgBees—queen cellsSeven queen cells and a chunk of drone brood removed from a hive.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/img_1576.jpgBeesAs soon as the rain clears up these bees are out the door, ready to bring home the goods. If you try to stay below the entrance, not as many bees run into you. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/img_1573.jpgSaladThe first spring mix of 2012. This is a treat reserved solely for our subscribers. It's too much work to mass-produce it. The nasturtiums are a special greenhouse addition to the mix. 2012-06-09T05:19:25+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2012/05/30/spring-week-8-promises/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/img_1564.jpgSquash seedlingTiny summer squash seedlings are starting to peek out of their plastic-warmed beds. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/img_1565.jpgPea PodsThe promise of peas. Won't be long now.2012-05-31T05:28:13+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2012/05/23/spring-week-7-chicks-and-carrots/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/img_15442-e1337831376866.jpgSpring CarrotsThe first carrots of 2012.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/img_1545.jpgPurple RadishesAny radishes are welcome in the spring, but you can't beat the violet hue of "Plum Purple".https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/img_1547.jpgHen on a roofFinally found this hen, after finding a baby on the ground. I had looked for two days and finally heard more peeping on top of the ceiling of the cow barn. There's an overhang there, and she was quite cozy on top of the fluffy insulation. 2012-05-28T16:23:06+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2012/05/16/spring-week-6-marketing/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/photo4.jpgProm Queen RadishesDella's first experiment in marketing.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/photo3.jpgBeet GreensThe first beet crop we plant in the new season are for greens. We may eventually get a beet, but this first spring crop is for those tender leaves. Slighly beety, nutritious, and NOT KALE. 2012-05-17T16:35:57+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2012/05/08/spring-week-5-crows/2012-05-16T19:09:01+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2012/05/02/spring-week-4-onion-story/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/photo2-e1336019672632.jpgSpring OnionsBeautiful bunches of Spring Onions.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/photo-e1336019434167.jpgClaytoniaClaytonia perfoliata, or "Miners' Lettuce" is a tasty spring green. We value it because it germinates and grows when the temperature is cold and wet, whether that is fall, winter or spring. 2012-05-03T23:35:36+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2012/04/24/spring-week-3-spring-vegetable-adventure/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/img_1448.jpgFrench RadishesThese pretty radishes aren't just quick (21 days from planting). They're also sweet and mild. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/img_1446-e1335317742918.jpgSalad BurnetWhat looks like a leaf, but tastes like a cucumber? Salad Burnet!2012-04-27T04:14:35+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2012/04/18/spring-week-2-signs-of-spring/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/img_1429.jpgTiny EggThere's a tiny pullet egg at the top of the M&M's. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/img_1430.jpgFirst Hatch of 2012Our first hatch of the year! We found three stranded baby chicks by the hay shed, and had to search to find this mama. She had three with her in the bushes, but all were reunited successfully.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/img_1427.jpgEgg with No ShellSometimes, when chickens are just learning how to lay eggs, they make an egg without a shell. This one has the membrane intact, and is a complete egg inside, just no outer shell to protect it.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/img_1368.jpgEarly PeasThe last windy week ripped the covers off of our first pea crop, planted in early March when it was sunny and dry.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/img_1365.jpgAsparagusThe first spears of our asparagus patch poking out to greet chilly air. We won't be able to harvest anything until next spring. The plants need all the energy they can get from the aerial parts.2012-04-19T00:10:14+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2012/04/11/spring-week-1-loads-of-greens/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/photo1-e1334170122178.jpgSpring GreensThis week's greens, clockwise from top left: Swiss Chard, Purple Sprouting Broccoli, Turnip Rapini, Siberian Kale, and Sprouty Redbor Kale.2012-04-11T19:16:43+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/green-garlic-the-onion-familys-spring-treat/2012-04-11T18:59:27+00:00weekly0.6https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2011/12/28/happy-new-year/2012-04-02T03:20:13+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2012/04/01/spring-is-near/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/img_1216.jpgBefore GreenhouseThe January ice storm crushed all of our greenhouses. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/img_1231.jpgPulletsWe started these pullets in November, so they'd be ready to lay eggs in April. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/img_1279.jpgDisced GroundA few days without rain are all that are needed to start working up ground.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/photo.jpgBig Greenhouse RepairedAfter. Much better, the crushed arches replaced with heavier steel. 2012-04-11T04:50:07+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2012/01/05/winter-week-10-the-end-of-winter/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/photo-e1325799521330.jpgNapa CabbagesA tidy pile of little Napa cabbages. Sweet and crispy, with just a hint of mustard.2012-01-07T00:17:48+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2008/06/21/beets%e2%80%94deep-sweet-roots/2013-06-28T19:18:28+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2011/08/09/pick-yourself-a-bouquet-and-contemplate-what-you-will-eat-this-winter/2011-12-29T02:51:58+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2011/12/28/winter-week-9-3-more-minutes-every-day/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/p1010031.jpgSavoy CabbageGlory of Winterhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/img_1430.jpgChild LaborChild Labor: Della was 3 and Cosmo was 2. Start them out young, we always say.2012-04-01T16:42:38+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/kohlrabi-edible-spaceship/2013-11-11T04:12:40+00:00weekly0.6https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2011/12/13/winter-week-7-soooo-cold-9-days-to-solstice/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/photo.jpgMinters' Greens BarIt has been our pleasure this winter to create a new Pickup Site in Skyway, at Minters' Earlington Nursery. I have to admit, I've done my share of shopping. I'm a plant junkie. And, I couldn't keep my mitts out of the Winter Greens Bar. Stop by and grab some greenery!2011-12-28T07:05:54+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2011/12/06/winter-week-6-cold-and-dark-countdown-to-solstice/2011-12-07T22:21:18+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2011/11/29/winter-week-5-finding-joy/2011-12-06T18:11:02+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2011/11/21/winter-week-4-ready-for-thanksgiving/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/img_0992.jpgWhite TurnipsJapanese Turnips are almost a vegetable separate from the standard turnip world. They are tender, cruncy, mild, and sweet. And snow white.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/img_0947.jpgFrosty HipsRugosa Rose Hips are even more brilliantly scarlet when iced with frost. 2011-11-21T23:10:56+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2011/11/16/winter-week-3-rainbow-vegetables/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/img_0960-e1321497490597.jpgQuinces on a treeBeautiful jewels of Quince on our young trees. No broken branches this year. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/photo2.jpg3 root grex beetsThese should be called "Rainbow Beets". But they're actually a contrived "genepool", not really a variety, called 3 Root Grex. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/img_0989.jpgQuincesYou need Smell-o-vision to really get a sense of what the elusive Quince is all about. Reminiscent of pineapples and a perfume like pears, when they're ripe they fill a room with scent. 2011-11-18T18:15:26+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2011/11/08/winter-week-2-white-roots-and-green-leaves/2011-11-09T06:25:46+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2011/11/01/winter-week-1-end-of-summer/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/photo1-e1320202684504.jpgScarecrowsThe Halloween Bridal Party!https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/photo-e1320202429272.jpgTurkeysThe turkeys are much happier in their warm, dry greenhouse. Three weeks to Thanksgiving!2011-11-07T19:34:46+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2011/10/25/summer-week-20-end-of-summer-4/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/img_0878.jpgHoneybee BattleThis is the time of year when honey robbing takes place. We've put entrance reducers on the bee hives so the girls have less doorway to guard and defend. But here you can see two dead yellowjackets and one dead honeybee. The casualties of war. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/img_0890.jpgMolting HenThen hens aren't laying anymore. They are molting, and therefore are becoming naked. How can you lay eggs when you're losing all your feathers?2011-11-01T23:15:31+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2011/09/28/summer-week-16-feels-like-fall/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/img_0818.jpgBroccoliYesterday the broccoli crowns were just the size of a quarter. Today they are almost 3" across. They'll be perfect by next week!2011-10-14T04:28:31+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2011/09/13/summer-week-14-where-did-summer-go/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/img_0784.jpgDillThe dill patch in full bloom. This is the stage that is best for pickles. Unfortunately, the pickles aren't doing well this year, so we have lots of lonely dill heads. It sure is pretty though.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/img_0786.jpgSpice Boys Basil"Spice Boys" basil. It can be used like traditional Genovese basil, but it has a little cinnamon flavor too. It's actually good in a green or fruit salad. Or, try it as pesto with a zing.2011-09-15T04:15:58+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2011/08/29/summer-week-12-just-what-is-a-pattypan/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/img_0189.jpgPattypan 1Beatrix Potter's, "The Pie and the Patty Pan".https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/img_0188-e1314673397517.jpgPattypan 2So there really was a patty-pan. Poor Miss Kitty.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/img_0745-e1314673416920.jpgPattypan SquashPattypan Squashes. This variety is "Benning's Green Tint". There are a number of heirloom varieties in the Seed Savers' Exchange book. I once got seeds from someone in France, I remember one variety named "Patisson Panaché Vert e Blanc". It was pretty. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/img_0765.jpgShell Beans in a BucketThis variety is from Italy, "Stregonta". It means "sorceress". It was supposed to be a pole strain, and we were saving seed, but it turned out to be a bush variety and they are done WAY early. They are pretty and delicious, nonetheless.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/img_0768-e1314673562614.jpgBasil BedWe planted 10,000 basil plants. Can you smell it yet?2011-09-07T05:44:26+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2011/08/28/summer-week-11-trip-to-the-desert/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/img_0753-e1314507847325.jpgZucchini BlossomsA glowing handful of zucchini blossoms. This is about 30. They have to be picked in the early morning or they melt.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/img_0752-e1314507909739.jpgFava Beans for SeedThe last picking of fava beans was not for eating. They are starting to dry on the plants, so we picked about 40 pounds to save for seed. We should end up with about 20 pounds of seed to plant in the spring.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/img_0751-e1314507974509.jpgCosmo and CucumbersCosmo, the Cucumber Cowboy. What a great helper.2011-08-28T13:01:46+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/purslane%e2%80%94the-edible-ice-plant/2011-08-28T12:49:45+00:00weekly0.6https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2011/08/18/summer-week-10-an-edible-trip-to-italy/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/img_0723.jpgBachelor Button and BeeHoneybee in a Bachelor Button Blossom.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/img_0739-e1313714110912.jpgBumblebee in a blossomHoneybees don't get much from squash and pumpkin flowers, but the bumblebees seem to thrive on them. Here's a bumblebee swimming in a pumpkin blossom.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/img_0744-e1313714191835.jpgTorpedo OnionsSparkling Red Torpedo Onions. From Tropea in Florence, Italy. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/img_0747.jpgFennelFerny fennel in the field. 2011-08-19T05:14:52+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2011/08/09/summer-week-9-more-bounty/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/img_0715_2.jpgYellow Snap BeansFresh Yellow Snap Beanshttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/img_0716.jpgFlashy LettuceBeautiful lettuce again this week. This one is called "Flashy Green Butter Oak". Frank Morton, in Oregon, has taken to breeding amazing varieties of lettuce. This is one of the prettiest. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/img_0718.jpgFirst CarrotsFinally, the first carrots of the year are ready. Hopefully they'll last a while.2011-08-10T05:10:53+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2011/08/03/summer-week-8-brace-yourselves-summer-is-here/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/img_0675.jpgChicken ButtsMama chicken teaching her 15 babies how to sleep where the coyotes can't reach you.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/img_0682-e1312378432749.jpgzucchini plantZucchini are ready!https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/img_0686.jpgAugust BouquetA happy customer with her beautiful bouquet from the u-cut flower garden. Nice job!2011-08-03T13:38:04+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2011/07/27/summer-week-7-it-is-almost-august/2011-07-27T14:29:00+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2011/07/20/summer-week-6-we-are/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/img_0656.jpgCleaning OnionsDella and Mike bond while cleaning onions for Tuesday pickup.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/img_0646-e1311138069814.jpgSnakeskinSnakes love heat, and they are pretty easy to find on the black plastic mulch in the field, as well as in the greenhouse.2011-07-20T18:06:42+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2011/07/14/summer-week-5-peas-at-last/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/img_0561.jpgPatty's BackyardPatty's Backyardhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/img_0643.jpgFresh DirtReady to plant. Plowed and disced. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/img_0642.jpgIMG_0642Sugar Snap Peas. The fatter they are, the sweeter they are!2011-07-15T03:42:43+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2011/06/29/summer-week-3-so-close-to-summer/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/img_0459-e1309356945357.jpgPeas on the wayShelling peas are on the way! Maybe next week, but definitely the week after.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/img_0460-e1309356991457.jpgtime to weed carrotsTime to weed the carrot patch. The carrots are the little ferny-looking plants, and all the rest are weeds. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/img_0456.jpgBaby PigsBess's babies are almost two weeks old.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/img_0441-e1309357067723.jpgPoppiesThe flower patch is nearly ready. Poppies are blooming, and soon the Rocky Mountain Garland, Larkspur, and Bachelor Buttons will be too.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/img_0462.jpgBlackberry blossomsThe blackberries are blooming—bring on the honeyflow!2011-06-29T16:29:43+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2011/06/21/summer-week-2-baby-week/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/img_0371.jpgFirst Rogue Hatch of 2011First rogue hatch of 2011. 13 fuzzy chickies.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/img_0368-e1308690380668.jpgGreenhouse ZucchiniGreenhouse zucchini are blooming and producing before we even get the outside beds planted.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/img_0367.jpgMean Mama GooseThis means, "Don't mess with my babies or I'll eat you!"2011-06-26T05:47:13+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2011/06/14/summer-week-1-a-cool-start/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/img_0338.jpgRuminatingThis is where the word "ruminate" comes from. It's what cows do best. Chew and ponder the universe.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/img_0336.jpgBaby TurkeysOnly 150 days or so until Thanksgiving!2011-06-15T05:59:29+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2011/06/07/spring-week-10-summer-on-the-way/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/img_0316-e1307490399459.jpgClimbing BeansDid you ever notice that climbing plants always wind themselves around things in a clockwise direction? Looking from the top, that is. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/img_0315.jpgSwallow TriplexThe Barn Swallows returned several weeks ago, but I'm so happy that they finally decided to move into the new cow barn. They picked a spot over the door to the pasture. And there are three nests!https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/img_0314.jpgCucumber and Squash StartsMany flats of cucumber and summer squash plants waiting for beds to be made outside.2011-06-08T00:06:16+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2011/05/31/catch-up-week%e2%80%94no-harvest/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/img_0295.jpgDulceThe new golden calf, Dulce de Leche. This is Beauty's 10th calf, she's turning 14 this year. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/img_0287.jpgSoil Improvement ProjectOur new soil improvement method. Plant cover crop of rye and field peas, then graze cows on it for manure application. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/img_0284-e1306907565392.jpgHawthorn Tree in BloomThe bees love hawthorn trees. Look at all those amazing flowers. Plenty of forage to last until the blackberries start blooming.2011-06-01T06:19:17+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2011/05/23/spring-week-9-t-shirt-weather/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/img_0274.jpgFresh DirtNice, fluffy dirt. Plowed and disced, and nearly ready to plant.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/img_0278.jpgTurnip FlowersThe rapini is gone for the year. Warm weather is good for many things, but it makes the brassicas flower like crazy.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/img_0275.jpgCrimson CloverCrimson Clover blossoms.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/img_0273.jpgPea RowThe peas are about 4" tall now. You can see the rows of fava beans to the right.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/img_0276.jpgCrimson Clover Between BedsCrimson Clover Between Beds2011-05-24T06:14:11+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2011/05/18/spring-week-8-spring-at-last/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/img_0254.jpgQuince BlossomsThe quinces are in full bloom this week. Delicate pink blooms covering the trees. 2011-05-19T04:43:29+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2011/05/09/spring-week-7-first-week-without-a-frost/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/img_0192-e1305008218443.jpgCows on GrassCows eat grass, and that's where they belong. Sunshine and green pasture.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/img_0208.jpgCharlotte's ColonyThe landing pad to Charlotte's hive. I love watching the foragers come home with full pollen baskets, and the guards checking everybody out as the try to enter.2011-05-10T06:18:50+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2011/05/02/spring-week-6/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/img_0168-e1304403422728.jpgCosmo helping with the beesCosmo helps check on Charlotte's hive. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/img_0185.jpgJuniper's calfThe Golden Calf.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/img_0184-e1304403201326.jpgMaple FlowersThe maple trees are in full bloom, but I have seen more bumble bees and mason bees interested in the flowers than my honeybees.2011-05-03T06:21:16+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2011/04/27/spring-week-2-where-are-you-spring-2/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/img_0086.jpgHoneybee Packages3# packages of bees waiting to be picked up at Beez Neez Apiary Supply in Snohomish. https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/img_0091.jpgCaterpillar Tunnels at Work2' tall and 6' wide, these tunnels are perfect for starting early greens.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/img_0106.jpgPlanting Fava BeansCosmo and Della take turns placing four Fava Bean seeds in a hill and covering up the hills. This is one of their favorite jobs.2011-04-27T20:50:56+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2011/04/19/spring-week-4-sun-and-snow-in-april/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/img_0079.jpgDella and LillibetLillibet is keeping Della company while she paints the new cow barn.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/img_0078.jpgBarefoot in the April SunIt's important to take your boots off to play in a dirt hole.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/img_0076.jpg"Suzy" DaffodilsThe picture of April.2011-04-20T04:39:12+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2011/04/11/spring-week-3-between-rain-showers/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/img_0030.jpgWild MustardWild Mustard blooming in April.https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/img_00271-e1302582068792.jpgBeehivesThe sun came out and I got the bee boxes painted. All ready to set up for the honeybees!2011-04-12T23:53:34+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/summer-squashes%e2%80%94so-much-more-than-zucchini/2011-04-09T06:04:22+00:00weekly0.6https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/stinging-nettles%e2%80%94a-delicious-spring-tonic/2011-04-09T05:57:33+00:00weekly0.6https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/shelling-beans%e2%80%94the-taste-of-indian-summer/2011-04-09T05:52:11+00:00weekly0.6https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/pumpkin-soups-from-simple-to-dramatic/2011-04-09T05:46:38+00:00weekly0.6https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/fava%e2%80%94the-only-old-world-bean/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/favasclose.jpegfavascloseFava Beans2013-08-08T00:34:58+00:00weekly0.6https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/cardoon%e2%80%94stalking-the-thistle/2017-01-14T21:54:25+00:00weekly0.6https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/artichokes%e2%80%94the-roman-thistle/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/violetto.jpgvioletto"Violetto" Artichoke2011-04-08T00:16:28+00:00weekly0.6https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/sorrel%e2%80%94sour-and-sprightly/2014-04-09T15:40:49+00:00weekly0.6https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2011/04/05/spring-week-2-where-are-you-spring/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/img_0997-e1302046292720.jpgLillibetLillibethttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/img_0974.jpgIMG_0974Steel tunnel hoops waiting for their lot in life. 2011-04-06T00:34:31+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/rapini%e2%80%94its-all-in-the-name/2012-01-20T21:49:02+00:00weekly0.6https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2011/03/28/first-week-of-spring-let-the-harvest-begin/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/img_0988-e1301356969769.jpgPurple Top Turnip RapiniPurple Top Turnip Rapini2011-03-29T05:25:06+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2008/06/01/rapini%e2%80%94its-all-in-the-name-2/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/06/hpim0421.jpg>Rapini—It's All In The Name2011-03-29T04:18:25+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2010/10/01/summer-week-16-fall-is-here-2/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/img_1115.jpg>Summer Week 16: Fall is Here!2011-03-07T03:22:19+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2010/12/06/winter-week-6-where-are-the-greens/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/img_12422.jpg>Winter Week 6: Where are the Greens?https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/img_1243.jpg>Winter Week 6: Where are the Greens?https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/img_1241.jpg>Winter Week 6: Where are the Greens?2011-03-07T03:22:19+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2010/05/11/spring-week-8/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/img_08152.jpg>Spring Week 8: ?https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/img_08101.jpg>Spring Week 8: ?https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/img_08151.jpg>Spring Week 8: ?https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/img_0810.jpg>Spring Week 8: ?https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/img_0821.jpg>Spring Week 8: ?2011-03-07T03:22:18+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2010/04/12/spring-week-4-spring-onions-2/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/04/img_07302.jpg>Spring Week 4: Spring Onionshttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/04/img_0730.jpg>Spring Week 4: Spring Onionshttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/04/img_07291.jpg>Spring Week 4: Spring Onionshttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/04/img_0734.jpg>Spring Week 4: Spring Onionshttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/04/img_0729.jpg>Spring Week 4: Spring Onions2011-03-07T03:22:18+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2010/06/21/summer-week-2-lettuce-and-spinach/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/06/img_08703.jpg>Summer Week 2: Lettuce and Spinachhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/06/img_087021.jpg>Summer Week 2: Lettuce and Spinachhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/06/img_09181.jpg>Summer Week 2: Lettuce and Spinachhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/06/img_09171.jpg>Summer Week 2: Lettuce and Spinach2011-03-07T03:22:18+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2009/06/23/summer-week-2-peas-and-more-peas/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/06/img_03033.jpg>Summer Week 2: Peas, and More Peashttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/06/img_0303.jpg>Summer Week 2: Peas, and More Peashttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/06/img_0302.jpg>Summer Week 2: Peas, and More Peas2011-03-07T03:22:18+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2010/09/14/summer-week-14-between-broccoli-and-cauliflower/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/img_1094.jpg>Summer Week 14: Between Broccoli and CauliflowerA Truly Royal Vegetable2011-03-07T03:22:18+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2010/04/21/spring-week-5-radishes/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/04/img_07392.jpg>Spring Week 5: Radisheshttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/04/img_07391.jpg>Spring Week 5: Radisheshttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/04/img_0732.jpg>Spring Week 5: Radisheshttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/04/img_0721.jpg>Spring Week 5: Radisheshttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/04/img_07451.jpg>Spring Week 5: Radishes2011-03-07T03:22:18+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2010/08/31/summer-week-12-bounty-at-last/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/img_10762.jpg>Summer Week 12: Bounty! At last!https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/img_10761.jpg>Summer Week 12: Bounty! At last!https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/img_1065.jpg>Summer Week 12: Bounty! At last!https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/img_1073.jpg>Summer Week 12: Bounty! At last!2011-03-07T03:22:18+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2010/06/14/summer-week-1-red-torpedo-onions-pea-shoots/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/06/img_08733.jpg>Summer Week 1: Red Torpedo Onions & Pea Shootshttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/06/img_08701.jpg>Summer Week 1: Red Torpedo Onions & Pea Shootshttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/06/img_08731.jpg>Summer Week 1: Red Torpedo Onions & Pea Shootshttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/06/img_0872.jpg>Summer Week 1: Red Torpedo Onions & Pea Shootshttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/06/img_0871.jpg>Summer Week 1: Red Torpedo Onions & Pea Shoots2013-08-05T20:31:46+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2010/03/13/spring-is-here/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/img_06602.jpg>Spring Is Herehttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/img_0671.jpg>Spring Is Herehttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/img_06641.jpg>Spring Is Herehttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/img_0662.jpg>Spring Is Herehttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/img_0648.jpg>Spring Is Herehttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/img_0669.jpg>Spring Is Herehttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/img_0661.jpg>Spring Is Herehttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/img_0664.jpg>Spring Is Herehttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/img_0650.jpg>Spring Is Here2011-03-07T03:22:17+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2010/06/29/summer-week-3-lettuce-and-more-lettuce/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/06/img_0916.jpg>Summer Week 3: Lettuce and...More Lettucehttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/06/img_0920.jpg>Summer Week 3: Lettuce and...More Lettuce2011-03-07T03:21:25+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2010/07/06/summer-week-4-yokatta-na-returns-one-more-time/2011-03-07T03:21:24+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2010/06/14/mint%e2%80%94springs-basil/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/06/img_0874.jpg>Mint—Spring's Basil2011-03-07T03:21:20+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2009/12/02/winter-week-5-spousabouts-pumpkin-pancakes/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/img_0438.jpg>Winter Week 5: Spousabouts & Pumpkin Pancakes2011-03-07T03:21:08+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2009/07/19/summer-week-6-zucchini-chicks-and-geese/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/07/img_0329.jpg>Summer Week 6: Zucchini, Chicks, and Geese2011-03-07T03:20:55+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2008/12/27/winter-week-7%e2%80%94back-on-track/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/12/img_0061.jpg>Winter Week 7—Back on Track?https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/12/img_0048.jpg>Winter Week 7—Back on Track?https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/12/img_0059.jpg>Winter Week 7—Back on Track?https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/12/img_0058.jpg>Winter Week 7—Back on Track?2011-03-07T03:20:50+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2009/04/10/is-spring-here-really/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/04/img_0188.jpg>Is Spring Here, Really?https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/04/img_0186.jpg>Is Spring Here, Really?https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/04/img_0187.jpg>Is Spring Here, Really?2011-03-07T03:20:48+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2009/02/22/the-hands-of-hope/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/02/img_0097.jpg>The Hands of Hopehttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/02/img_0098.jpg>The Hands of Hope2011-03-07T03:20:48+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2008/06/28/the-great-scape/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/06/hpim02751.jpg>The Great 'Scape2013-07-08T23:09:52+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2008/06/23/summer-week-2-the-first-days-of-summer/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/06/hpim0286.jpg>Summer Week 2: The First Days of Summer2011-03-07T03:20:35+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2008/06/03/spring-week-9-spinach-garlic-scapes/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/06/hpim0279.jpg>Spring Week 9: Spinach & Garlic Scapeshttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/06/hpim0275.jpg>Spring Week 9: Spinach & Garlic Scapes2011-03-07T03:20:34+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2008/06/10/spring-week-10-holey-arugula-batman/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/06/hpim0281.jpg>Spring Week 10: Holey Arugula, Batman!2011-03-07T03:20:32+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2008/05/27/spring-week-8-more-of-the-same/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/05/hpim0273.jpg>Spring Week 8: More of the Samehttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/05/hpim0272.jpg>Spring Week 8: More of the Same2011-03-07T03:20:32+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2008/06/01/farm-fresh-eggs/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/06/hpim0394.jpg>Farm Fresh Eggs!2011-03-07T03:20:31+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2008/04/28/spring-week-4-radishes-milk-and-meats/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/04/hpim0435.jpg>Spring Week 4: Radishes, Milk, and Meats2011-03-07T03:20:30+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2008/05/16/spring-week-6-sweet-salad-onions-pea-shoots-and-mint/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/05/hpim0254.jpg>Spring Week 6: Sweet Salad Onions, Pea Shoots, and Mint2011-03-07T03:20:30+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2008/04/23/spring-week-3-more-rapini/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/04/springweek3.jpg>Spring Week 3: More Rapini2011-03-07T03:20:29+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2008/04/15/spring-week-2-rapini/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/04/springweek2.jpg>Spring Week 2: Rapini2011-03-07T03:20:29+00:00monthlyhttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/2007/06/27/how-to-pick-peas-with-cosmo-verdi/https://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2007/06/hpim0119.jpg>How to Pick Peas, with Cosmo Verdihttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2007/06/hpim0125.jpg>How to Pick Peas, with Cosmo Verdihttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2007/06/hpim0120.jpg>How to Pick Peas, with Cosmo Verdihttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2007/06/hpim0123.jpg>How to Pick Peas, with Cosmo Verdihttps://whistlingtrainfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2007/06/hpim0117.jpg>How to 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