As we pass into the heart of Summer it is crunch time for farmers to get any and all remaining fall crops seeded and in the ground, that means tons of bed preparation this week! We will be busy mowing, hoeing, raking, amending, composting, seeding and planting.
What's growing?
This time of year also brings with it vibrant colors and flavors. You will notice that eggplant, tomatillos, ground cherries, tomatoes and even the first wave of peppers are on the list this week; and while there are not enough of these beauties for everyone to get them, do not fret for this is only the beginning! A note on eggplant; we love ours lightly breaded and fried, topped with melted cheese and a fresh cherry tomato sauce, paired with a light bubbly beverage on these long summer days.
Vampires Beware!
New item spotlight!
Garlic Braids are on sale now! Freshly harvested soft neck garlic woven together with farm grown flowers and grasses. These make an excellent edible accent for your kitchen, as well as an amazing gift for friends and family. We are offering them at the Farm Stand (open 3 -6 pm every Friday), at the Downtown Vancouver Farmer's Market (Saturdays 10 am - 3 pm), or you can reach out to us directly.
Local Partner Spotlight:
We love to partner with other farmers and our neighbors. This week we have the last of the Yellow Transparent apples from our tree on property and our neighbors trees. The Femlings have brought us their extra apples, plums, sweet corn and other goodies that they grow (all naturally and chemical free) on their property for a couple of seasons now. It's wonderful to be able to share the abundance and have less waste as well as help them get a little extra cash to pay for other farm supplies! The Femling family has lived in this area for over 80 years. Much of the property surrounding our farm (and even our farm!) used to be owned or is still owned by their family. They still operate around 100 acres and have pastured, free range cattle as well as many old apple and plum trees.
Happy Summer!
Your farmer,
Patrick & the Flat Tack / Sprout & Blossom Farm team
