Autumn has been kind to the flowers this year. The two light frosts thus far have barely nipped the tender plants in more exposed areas. Most of the farm is protected by sheltering belts of trees that ease the sharp bite of the wind. Rock outcrops gather heat from the day’s sunshine and the tender plants nearby benefit from these warmer pockets as the heat radiates back into the air at night.

It’s the time of year when all things seem possible.  I dream of verdant growth, record harvests, perfect blossoms, and fruit unmarked by insect damage
[continue reading...]

Last night we had a hard frost, and it nipped a few tender plants and blossoms. As the sun eased over the horizon, I trudged
[continue reading...]

This winter’s tatsoi (mustard greens) crop is in full bloom in the greenhouse. The leaves are no longer yummy, but I’ve left the plants to
[continue reading...]

Champion collards, planted in the greenhouse September, 2007. Collards, like most brassicas, are biennial – that is, they go to seed their second year. Collards
[continue reading...]

Years ago, I had two little snowdrop plants by my front steps. Those were my early harbingers of spring. The first appearance of the snowdrop
[continue reading...]

They grew a couple inches taller this weekend when the afternoon temperatures swelled to the upper 70s (Fahrenheit). They’ll get nipped with cold tonight if
[continue reading...]

I’ve never cared much for mustard greens. The canned variety just tastes nasty, I think. The fresh ones gathered in the pasture when I was
[continue reading...]

It’s true. The best carrots ever come from the winter garden in my greenhouse. Trust me. I just picked one. I’m eating it right now.
[continue reading...]

January 3 overnight low – 14 degrees. January 5 high – 71 degrees January 6 high – 73 degrees January 7 high – 71 degrees
[continue reading...]