One of the many reasons we choose to follow USDA certified organic practices is because of the life that helps. The past month has brought a plague of aphids to our leafy crops which has knocked out a few things like turnips and kale earlier than expected. We've done what we can organically to beat them back. We've won a few battles but have spent many final hours in the processing station manually washing them off for the hard-earned win. We could have used harsh pesticides and moved along. But we didn't. And now our reinforcemnts have arrived.
Native lady bugs are patrolling crops once bothered by aphids and their companion ants. Wasps are attacking leaf-crunching caterpillars. Centipedes are seen hunting under headlamp at night. Worms are uncovered digging channels in the live soil. This food is alive.
Miraculously, our mustard green crop which seemed a goner from pest pressure has bounced back and surged forth a gorgeous, spicey red steak in terrace one. Collards have jumped back up into contention out of the grasses. New snap peas are filling out and are filled with flavor.
We hope that you enjoy this week's share of the life of our farm. If you want some kitchen inspiration we hope that you join us for our Slow Down dinner on March 1st, this coming sunday. Email csa@ridge2reef.org for info and to RSVP. Also March 5-8 is Bush Skills at the farm and you can register here.
Thank you for your support and happy eating,
Nate and the Farm Crew
