Our plants are thriving! Our strawberry crowns are tucked under their protective shelters basking in the extra heat and loving it. The covers did take some hits in the snowstorms last month. A few neighbors observed that it looked like we had several large inflatable arms flailing in the fields. But, not to worry, we patched everything up, and our crowns have recuperated nicely. The strawberries are finally shedding their crispy winter leaves and producing healthy, happy green leaves. The deer caught wind of this progress and began unabashedly prying with their noses and hooves. Fortunately, the row covers remain virtuous in keeping out meddlesome predators. Other than poking a few holes in the covers, our friends haven’t done much damage. While the strawberries are blossoming, they feel more like awaited Christmas gifts than redemptive spring blossoms. We aren’t able to ooh and ahh much over the progress as the day-to-day changes are hidden beneath our covers. Nonetheless, we’re excited to see all of our hard work finally come together at the end of this season.
Over in the greenhouse, spring is here! Our broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage are starting to outgrow their trays, and very soon, we’ll be planting them in the fields. The flowers are also flourishing. Even with a frigid 18-degree evening last month, the geraniums, begonias, impatiens, and petunias are racing to bloom. We’re hoping to have our first hanging baskets full of color just in time for Mother’s Day.
A Tip for Parents
Kid-Friendly Gardening Tips
Gardening is a therapeutic and adventurous way to get your kids out into the beauty of nature. Here are some tips for creating a kid-friendly garden your whole family will enjoy:
-Begin with seed starters
Seed starters are a wonderful way to spark curiosity and educate your children about their food and how it grows. Seed staters also foster a sense of responsibility in children as they water, sun, and encourage their little seeds to germinate and sprout tender leaves.
-Incorporate crafts
Go hunting for some peculiar rocks and fossils and get out that paint! Painted rocks create fun art and stepping stones for your garden and help personalize the look for your kids. You can even place hide-and-seek items for your kids to spot. So fun!
-Plant plenty of flowers
Cut flowers are a sweet, colorful way to encourage generosity in your children. Help your kids create a beautiful bouquet for Grandma, the neighbors, or their teachers on the last day of school. Watch how proud your child is to give something handmade right from their own garden.
-Cook what you grow
Plant some items that you know your kids will enjoy eating and involve them in meal preparation. There is nothing more rewarding than eating something straight from the garden. This will help your child eat their veggies and establish nutritious rhythms for the rest of their lives.
Our Launch
Stay tuned for our official launch at the beginning of May. This day will be a fun event filled with adventures and over 200 giveaways! We’re excited to have you out to the farm picking fresh strawberries and produce. There is nothing like the taste of a fresh, sweet strawberry. Don’t miss the chance to fill your home with the smell of warm strawberry jam, pies, and pastries. We’ll have a basket waiting for you!
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