This week is our first harvest for potatoes! These potatoes were an experiment for us as we planted them by seed.
Usually, you plant potatoes using "seed potatoes" which are potatoes which grew the year before. You simply cut them into pieces and plant them. Potatoes can be planted by seed, but the seed takes a long time to produce and generally it is just easier and more productive to plant them by seed potato. However, this year we thought we would try our hand at planting potatoes by seed, because we like to try out new things. The seeds were cheaper than purchasing seed potatoes (which we often have shipped from Alberta!), and the potatoes themselves promised to be interesting as they are naturally diverse - no plant is exactly the same. We grew them as seedlings in our greenhouse in the spring and transplanted them into the soil. Now, the potatoes that these seeds produce are known as "creamer" potatoes - they are naturally small, which makes them creamy and delicious and the skin is soft. They vary in colour, with some having red skin, and others blush or yellow. We hope you enjoy this brief foray into the more interesting and diverse world of potatoes that exists out there.
Corn!
We have a few extras available this week that you can swap into your shares, or purchase additionally. As well as experimental potatoes, we also grew a small corn patch this year. We didn't intend to grow a large amount, as it takes up a lot of room and we must use our space conservatively. We did want to have corn for ourselves, so we thought we would grow a little extra! As it is, there's a bit of corn to go around. You might have it in your share, but there are also some extras available to swap in. If this is something you're into, let us know - maybe we can grow more in the future!
Apples!
Now, we also have a very delightful little apple tree next to our house. It's been here ever since my parents purchased the land. We don't know what variety the apples are. But it is a very giving producer and the apples it grows have a sweet-tart flavour and a crisp texture. They're good for eating fresh or cooking. We've added these as an extra that you can purchase.
Other Extras!
We also have basil, parsley, scallions, onions, chard, and garlic as extras available for swapping in or purchasing. It is always worth taking a look at your customization page to see what else might be available to add to your share, often at no extra cost.
Strathroy Market
This is the last week for the Strathroy Market, and hence for the Strathroy Market pick up. We'll be moving everyone who picks up at the market back to our Thursday farm pick up. If that doesn't work with your schedule, please send us an email or msg and we'll work something out for you.
Late Pick Ups
If you ever can't get to the farm on time on Thursdays - don't worry! Our cold room keeps everything at a nice cool 2 degrees. If you don't pick up your share on time, we'll leave it in there and it will stay fresh. You can pick it up after 7pm, or come and pick it up at your leisure on Friday, or even Saturday.
Have a great week, and see you soon!
Your farmers,
Kim and Alex
