Preparing for Tomato Planting

Tomato planting is always an exciting task on the farm because we all really love tomatoes! Based on the last frost date for our area, we typically try to start transplanting our tomatoes on or right after March 1st. In order to make that happen, we’re getting our beds in tip-top shape this week. This involves plowing to make sure our beds are the right height, amending the soil with organic fertilizer and compost, and mixing the amendments into the soil with our harrow implement (the photo below). Our plan is to devote 8 of our beds to tomatoes this season.

We direct-seeded peas right before the last frost hit. In order to keep them warm until germination, we covered the rows with a thin layer of compost. We’re happy to report that they have germinated and are doing really well! We have a mix of English shelling peas growing along with sugar snap peas. Shelling peas don’t produce edible pods like a sugar snap or snow pea thus the peas must be shelled or removed as the name implies. We haven’t grown this type of pea on the farm in a couple of years so we are eager to see how they grow and most importantly, how they taste.

Scallions are officially back in season this week! This member of the allium family has a mild onion flavor and can be eaten raw or cooked. They’re a great option to add a fresh onion flavor to dishes until our bulb onions and eventually our leeks make their way into season. You’ll be able to pick up scallions at the veggie wagon this Saturday from 8am-noon. Since it’s the third Saturday of the month, you’ll also be able to peruse local goods from our vendors at the farmers market. We hope to see you there!