Farm Update March 4, 2017

We had a minor setback on the high-tunnel construction Thursday morning. The day dawned clear and windless. We started early laying out the greenhouse film ñ a sheet of 6 mil plastic 150 feet long and about 50 feet wide. While we were pulling it up and over the frame a very slight breeze started stirring. Within about 10 minutes, the wind changed direction and increased considerably. It picked up the cover like a big sail and blew it off completely as we yelled and scrambled to limit the damage. It was probably pretty funny to watch, but not too funny to experience. Fortunately no one fell off the ladders and no one was hurt. The cover was slightly damaged, but only on the edges where it was attached to the ropes.

We will make a second attempt this upcoming Thursday morning and are seeking volunteers to help with task. We will start even earlier this time so that we can get the cover on and secured before the breeze comes up.

On a happier note, we now have a crew of 4 working at the farm, so our workdays are a bit shorter and the harvests not as intense. One more intern will join the crew by the end of March, so we will be in good shape for the spring planting season which is upon us.

Thank you for your support.

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fennel
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baby romaine

Farm Update February 4, 2017

Yesterday we completed most of the frame for our high tunnel greenhouse. Many tasks remain to finish the greenhouse. As mentioned last week in the newsletter, we are seeking Saturday, Tuesday and Thursday volunteers to help with the construction for the next few weeks. We will start around 8a and work until around 4p. If you are interested in volunteering with the construction, please let me know.

We have had a few warm days this week and more are on the way, according to predictions. This is helping our crops to grow more quickly. Most of our bed space is planted out and we should see increasing production in the following weeks. That will be reflected in our market stands at Rillito and Green Valley.

We’ll see you at the markets!

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fennel
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high tunnel frame
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broccoli