tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-88394349467324440262024-03-05T22:24:00.365-08:00Harmony Ridge FarmsWe are an organic vegetable farm set in the rolling hills of Tobaccoville, NC. Our mission is to honor the land and to connect community. We will honor the land by enriching the soil and increasing biodiversity while co-creating with Nature. We will give thanks to our community by providing a source for produce with integrity. Our aim is to spread the joy of good food and the wisdom of responsible stewardship.K. Isaac Oliverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05466803610949485306noreply@blogger.comBlogger28125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8839434946732444026.post-91415163440216748722012-04-24T18:51:00.001-07:002012-04-24T18:51:05.525-07:00April AnnouncementsHello all! <br />
<br />
Hope this finds you all doing well and enjoying the cool weather of
late. I wanted to make a few announcements about the Spring/Summer CSA
program.<br />
<br />
1. Deliveries (including on-farm pick-ups) will begin May 9th/10th.
Home deliveries will occur Thursday afternoons. Please attend your
chosen location on a weekly basis. If you need to pick-up at an
alternate location please try and allow us a 24 hour notice. Everyone
will be issued two boxes (or crates). We ask that you return your empty
box each week to trade out for a full. You may also bring any empty
containers (egg cartons, plastic trays, etc.) issued by us. Also, If
you have purchased a large number of add-ons to your box, please bring
along an additional bag or container. <br />
<br />
2. ADD-ONS! This is a feature on our new site that will allow you to
add local, sustainably-produced meats, cheeses, honey, fruits, etc. to
your weekly boxes. Please see here: <span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: red;">http://harmonyridgefarms.net/members/add-ons</span></span>
. This is password protected; I will provide all members with their
password shortly. I will have all items available for purchase posted
the Friday prior to your deliveries to allow you plenty of time to order
your items. Items must be ordered by Tuesdays at noon. Any orders
placed after that time will go into the following week's box (if
possible). The site does not countdown automatically, so we will notify
you if something is sold out. You will receive an itemized receipt
each week for your add-ons and we will bill (via e-mail) on a monthly
basis.<br />
<br />
3. RECIPES! Wendy and Holly's recipes will no longer be attached to the weekly boxes. They will be catalogued by Month here: <span style="font-size: medium;"> <span style="color: red;">http://harmonyridgefarms.net/members/recipes. </span></span><br />
(They are currently set-up by season, but we will be changing it to a monthly set-up.)<br />
<br />
I believe that's all for now, please let me know if I can answer any more questions. <br />
<br />
Thank you all for your support of Harmony Ridge Farms. See you in May!K. Isaac Oliverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05466803610949485306noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8839434946732444026.post-40331183974032046392012-03-29T07:04:00.001-07:002012-03-29T07:04:20.046-07:00Announcements<span style="font-family:georgia,serif">Hello all,</span><br style="font-family:georgia,serif"><br style="font-family:georgia,serif"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif">Happy Spring! We've been hard at work ensuring to the best of our ability your deliveries will be bountiful come May and beyond. </span><br style="font-family:georgia,serif"> <br style="font-family:georgia,serif"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif">I just wanted to make a few announcements about our CSA.</span><br style="font-family:georgia,serif"><br style="font-family:georgia,serif"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif">- We still have memberships available, both basic and 'plus'. We will continue open registration until all available memberships are sold. We do expect to sell out of shares sometime in April. </span><br style="font-family:georgia,serif"> <br style="font-family:georgia,serif"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif">- We've added online payment to our site via paypal here: <a href="http://harmonyridgefarms.net/about-the-farm/csa/" target="_blank">http://harmonyridgefarms.net/<wbr>about-the-farm/csa/</a>. Once there, scroll to the bottom of the page. Upon receipt of your online payment, we will e-mail you to iron out all the details. Of course, you may register the old-fashioned way by submitting the form available at the said web address with a check made payable to Harmony Ridge Farms. </span><br style="font-family:georgia,serif"> <br style="font-family:georgia,serif"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif">- We've added a new delivery in Kernersville. Pick-up will happen at P.U.R.E. Wellness, 144 N. Cherry St. Kernersville, NC 27284 Suite 1 in the Hart Complex, beside Time Warner Cable. Time frame for pick-up will be between 12PM - 2:30PM (subject to change). </span><br style="font-family:georgia,serif"> <br style="font-family:georgia,serif"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif">- We welcome volunteers on the farm, as there is much to be done this time of year. If you wish to pitch in, please let me know and we can arrange a suitable time. </span><br style="font-family:georgia,serif"> <br style="font-family:georgia,serif"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif">Thanks,</span><br style="font-family:georgia,serif"><br style="font-family:georgia,serif"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif">K. Isaac Oliver</span>K. Isaac Oliverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05466803610949485306noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8839434946732444026.post-9637641969807276362012-03-07T08:23:00.002-08:002012-03-07T08:26:13.918-08:00Our new website!We're excited to announce the launch of our new website: www.harmonyridgefarms.net. Thank you Brad, Chip and Matt and all the folks at Wildfire Creative for all your hard work!K. Isaac Oliverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05466803610949485306noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8839434946732444026.post-86047350215897139112012-02-23T15:50:00.008-08:002012-02-23T16:15:11.822-08:00February 2012 Newsletter<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJx6zjcT7oHdoH3yHN5Kx8s6xMxv5vtWOOVN3g5A-CoWJYv_K4kfEV9Xna29QX6wMn4HMOtvw9Y-0pHYRavGDCLSxJUtBkEK1oCVJ2uylGWBapS6Q1kLm7LoVvBLorrpps1gfYZ1aPlT4/s1600/CIMG3201.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJx6zjcT7oHdoH3yHN5Kx8s6xMxv5vtWOOVN3g5A-CoWJYv_K4kfEV9Xna29QX6wMn4HMOtvw9Y-0pHYRavGDCLSxJUtBkEK1oCVJ2uylGWBapS6Q1kLm7LoVvBLorrpps1gfYZ1aPlT4/s320/CIMG3201.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5712488847941287746" border="0" /></a><br /> <style> <!-- /* Font Definitions */ @font-face {font-family:"Courier New"; panose-1:2 7 3 9 2 2 5 2 4 4; mso-font-charset:0; mso-generic-font-family:auto; 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margin-top:0in; margin-right:0in; margin-bottom:0in; margin-left:.5in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-add-space:auto; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family:Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;} p.MsoListParagraphCxSpLast, li.MsoListParagraphCxSpLast, div.MsoListParagraphCxSpLast {mso-style-type:export-only; margin-top:0in; margin-right:0in; margin-bottom:10.0pt; margin-left:.5in; mso-add-space:auto; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family:Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;} @page Section1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.Section1 {page:Section1;} /* List Definitions */ @list l0 {mso-list-id:187106880; mso-list-type:hybrid; mso-list-template-ids:-520079222 1001407480 67698691 67698693 67698689 67698691 67698693 67698689 67698691 67698693;} @list l0:level1 {mso-level-start-at:0; mso-level-number-format:bullet; mso-level-text:-; mso-level-tab-stop:none; mso-level-number-position:left; margin-left:.75in; text-indent:-.25in; font-family:Cambria; mso-fareast-font-family:Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;} ol {margin-bottom:0in;} ul {margin-bottom:0in;} --></style><br />I’ve noticed robins in greater numbers of late on the farm.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I knew they migrated, but have wondered why they’re seemingly always around.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>It’s been said they follow the 36 degree line as it progresses North, yet many remained here last winter when it was so much colder.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> <p class="MsoNormal">Upon researching, I discovered that it’s more accurate to say they migrate only when food is scarce…fruit being their primary choice, adding to the menu earthworms and insects in winter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>In a kind of orchestrated risk diminishment, robins spread out in winter in search of fruit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>The hardiest brave the cold North while others search for easier pickings.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">The short dry spell leading up to the weekend’s snow allowed us to turn ground.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Robins and other birds just about follow the tractor, knowing a meaty bonanza lies just beneath the surface.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>The worms must have had their fill as well, at least in our fields, as they seem to wriggle out of each shovelful.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>The soil test results we received back this week attest to the added vitality of our soils, just as well as the worms.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Based on our results, our need to use costly bagged amendments will be largely eliminated;<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>it seems our close attention to soil health is paying off.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>The test results have left us singing in anticipation of Spring…which brings me to the most fascinating aspect of robin migration:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>most robins hold in their song until they’ve reached home, where they will breed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>It’s as if they’re storing creative energy, allowing it to surge forth when Nature deems it fit to reproduce…the arrival of Spring.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Our song begins in the Greenhouse, e<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWQvjFVAvUD8Av81TlAgTFsQqr178X82wx_75nFGfXEh-V1_MdQ0IjMx0h5YvRjfrfn76AwVlhHCZ-WzKFD-Qix05V__VAesQJXosjToBWmN79JfGxkPI6l_UobNOnlbGvdYc8LWi2Wns/s1600/CIMG3192.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 275px; height: 205px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWQvjFVAvUD8Av81TlAgTFsQqr178X82wx_75nFGfXEh-V1_MdQ0IjMx0h5YvRjfrfn76AwVlhHCZ-WzKFD-Qix05V__VAesQJXosjToBWmN79JfGxkPI6l_UobNOnlbGvdYc8LWi2Wns/s320/CIMG3192.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5712487380416702450" border="0" /></a>ach sprouting green potential hitting a different note.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>It’s always a magical thing to watch it unfold.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Yes, we couldn’t resist an extra-early sowing of tomatoes…some of these will go in our new hoop-house in hopes of early tomatoes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Lettuces, herbs, broccoli, cabbage, endive, radicchio, onions, chard and beets are up, and this week brings sowings of peppers, fennel, kohlrabi, raab and basil.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Looming rain brings with <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRkPj71P3Ckwjr0fuSfkxzmo_q6ZZcSDFe2n5KaoVDGKPGA32Z7odh_cUds37yO-pJDqFW3uSm_GwagqW-EdRXVZ7TMEJKIedr7JzR4Bp3DLrxlCkNrYknd0V3cpkoPNqNg0S5DhXF6ak/s1600/CIMG3199.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 292px; height: 219px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRkPj71P3Ckwjr0fuSfkxzmo_q6ZZcSDFe2n5KaoVDGKPGA32Z7odh_cUds37yO-pJDqFW3uSm_GwagqW-EdRXVZ7TMEJKIedr7JzR4Bp3DLrxlCkNrYknd0V3cpkoPNqNg0S5DhXF6ak/s320/CIMG3199.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5712488517366388338" border="0" /></a>it a sense of urgency and things tend to get done.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Saturday was just that way, and with the help of a prospective intern, Michael, and my Dad we pushed our onion transplanting upwards of 10000.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>In addition to our staple Yellow Candy Sweets we are trying Red Candy, Zeppelin and a supersweet white called Sierra Blanca.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Later this week I’ll start in on the dried sets, which I’ll plant close together for Spring Onions.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal">One of the great joys of building Harmony Ridge these past few years has been all the great people we’ve met, including those who’ve lent a hand.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>First to come to mind is our neighbor Bobby.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>He’s given freely of sage advice on soil and climate and is always around when you need him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Just the other day he brought his forklift by to help us unload our new Springtooth cultivator and seeder for the tractor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>It’s amazing how local folks seem to show up right when you need them on a young farm.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>One of Bobby’s former hands, Kelly, works on small machines and has been indispensible of late, as we are mechanically-challenged.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal">It has been great getting to know other farmers in the area as well.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>This year we will work more closely with some of the best around…making their products available to CSA members through our new add-on process.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>The website under construction will allow members to simply check off items they wish to add to their weekly boxes in one easy step.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>We are excited to enrichen the CSA experience while helping other farmers sell their goods…meats, cheeses, fruits, honey, jams, dry goods, etc. available on a seasonal basis.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal">As I have some catch-up to do in the Greenhouse today, I’ll leave you with a few more announcements…</p> <p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin-left:.75in;mso-add-space:auto; text-indent:-.25in;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1"><span style="mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;mso-fareast-font-family:Cambria; mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;mso-bidi-font-family:Cambria;" ><span style="mso-list:Ignore">-<span style="font:7.0pt "Times New Roman""> </span></span></span>membership is still open for our Spring/Summer CSA program.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Our first deadline is this Friday 24<sup>th</sup>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>If you wish to join I urge you to submit your registration soon as we can only serve so many.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>If you are indeed joining us, please drop me a quick e-mail stating your intention so we can better gauge our marketing and production needs.</p> <p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left:.75in;mso-add-space: auto;text-indent:-.25in;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1"><span style="mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;mso-fareast-font-family:Cambria; mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;mso-bidi-font-family:Cambria;" ><span style="mso-list:Ignore">-<span style="font:7.0pt "Times New Roman""> </span></span></span>There will be a new delivery location in downtown Kernersville.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>It will occur midday on Thursdays, details TBA.</p> <p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin-left:.75in;mso-add-space:auto; text-indent:-.25in;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1"><span style="mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;mso-fareast-font-family:Cambria; mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;mso-bidi-font-family:Cambria;" ><span style="mso-list:Ignore">-<span style="font:7.0pt "Times New Roman""> </span></span></span>On our new website we will have a section with testimonials and references.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Please let me know if you would like to serve as a reference for our CSA program.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I would simply list your name and number.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I am also welcoming the submission of any 1-3 sentence farm testimonials.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Once again, thank you all for your support.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Until next time…</p> <p class="MsoNormal">-Isaac</p>K. Isaac Oliverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05466803610949485306noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8839434946732444026.post-14824360938004756902012-01-15T16:19:00.000-08:002012-01-15T16:22:55.224-08:002012 CSA Signup details below...<style> <!-- /* Font Definitions */ @font-face {font-family:Cambria; panose-1:0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0; mso-font-alt:"Times New Roman"; mso-font-charset:77; mso-generic-font-family:roman; mso-font-format:other; mso-font-pitch:auto; mso-font-signature:3 0 0 0 1 0;} @font-face {font-family:Cochin; panose-1:2 0 6 3 2 0 0 2 0 3; mso-font-charset:0; mso-generic-font-family:auto; mso-font-pitch:variable; mso-font-signature:3 0 0 0 1 0;} @font-face {font-family:"Handwriting - Dakota"; panose-1:2 0 4 0 0 0 0 0 0 0; mso-font-charset:0; mso-generic-font-family:auto; mso-font-pitch:variable; mso-font-signature:3 0 0 0 1 0;} /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-parent:""; margin-top:0in; margin-right:0in; margin-bottom:10.0pt; margin-left:0in; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family:Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;} a:link, span.MsoHyperlink {color:blue; text-decoration:underline; text-underline:single;} a:visited, span.MsoHyperlinkFollowed {mso-style-noshow:yes; color:purple; text-decoration:underline; text-underline:single;} @page Section1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:.9in 1.25in .9in 1.25in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.Section1 {page:Section1;} --> </style> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:center" align="center"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Handwriting - Dakota"">Harmony Ridge Farms 2012 CSA Registration</span></p> <div style="mso-element:para-border-div;border:none;border-bottom:solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-bottom-alt:solid windowtext .75pt;padding:0in 0in 1.0pt 0in"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="border:none;mso-border-bottom-alt:solid windowtext .75pt; padding:0in;mso-padding-alt:0in 0in 1.0pt 0in"><span style="font-family:Cochin">It is my pleasure to announce open registration for Harmony Ridge Farms’ 2012 Spring and Summer CSA Program.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>We are looking forward to an abundant harvest this year and would like for you and yours to share in the bounty.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Your support has allowed us to invest in tractor attachments that will allow us to harvest more while expanding our reach in the field.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>We will farm 5 acres this season, up from 2 ½<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>last year.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Even though we are mechanizing part of the growing process, you can be assured we will continue our policy to select and distribute only the finest quality, all-natural produce, while providing great variety and personalized service.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Our CSA shareholders allow us to grow, and I believe the gratitude we feel comes through with each and every box we fill.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="border:none;mso-border-bottom-alt:solid windowtext .75pt; padding:0in;mso-padding-alt:0in 0in 1.0pt 0in"><span style="font-family:Cochin">With additional land, experience and tools we are equipped to offer additional shares to interested families, couples or individuals.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>We will limit the number of farm members to ensure we can provide the highest quality product and service.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="border:none;mso-border-bottom-alt:solid windowtext .75pt; padding:0in;mso-padding-alt:0in 0in 1.0pt 0in"><span style="font-family:Cochin">We are not offering half-shares, but will carry over half shares from 2011.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>We encourage you to ask a friend, neighbor or family member to purchase a joint membership if need be.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="border:none;mso-border-bottom-alt:solid windowtext .75pt; padding:0in;mso-padding-alt:0in 0in 1.0pt 0in"><span style="font-family:Cochin">Your weekly produce shares will not be customizable, but will reflect the variety of produce in the field ready for harvest:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>your crate will be different each week, containing a generous amount of seasonal standards with specialty items mixed in at our discretion.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>You will never experience ‘feast or famine’ with our CSA.</span></p> </div> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:16.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Handwriting - Dakota"">Benefits</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Cochin">• <span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal">Abundance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></b>A season full of fresh, naturally-grown and nutrient-rich vegetables and herbs grown by us for you. The season will run from early May to late August.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>(We will start as early as Mother Nature will allow.)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Cochin"><br />• <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal">Variety and Tradition</b>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Vegetable varieties selected for flavor and delivered weekly at the peak of freshness.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>We grow many hard-to-find heirloom vegetable varieties, and a full compliment of the traditional standbys.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>We time our harvests to allow for the utmost variety on any given week, but do not skimp on the old favorites. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Cochin">• <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal">Unparalleled freshness</b>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Most of the produce is picked within a couple days of delivery.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Cochin">• <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal">Weekly recipes</b>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>With each produce delivery you’ll find a set of recipes selected for their tried and true flavor, ease and for their inclusion of our vegetables.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Often the herb cuttings we provide are called for in the recipes.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Cochin"><br />• <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal">Family involvement.</b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>The opportunity to help out and learn basic skills on the farm (if so desired).<br />• <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal">Environmental and Personal health</b>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>A contribution to the local community and ecosystem by supporting a low-waste and chemical-free food production system.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>A contribution to your family’s health and well-being.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Cochin"><br />• <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal">Proximity</b>. We are 3 miles Northwest of Winston-Salem, off Reynolda Rd. Scheduled visits are welcome.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Cochin"><br />• <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal">Social opportunities</b>:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>A Farm to table dinner at a local restaurant and perhaps another event or two depending on time available.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Cochin">• <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal">Participation.</b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Be a part of ever-evolving family enterprise.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>We want you to feel a part of the farm and we believe our personalized service reflects this warmth and gratitude.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>As we wish to evolve and continually enhance our CSA, we welcome your feedback and advice.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Cochin">• <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal">Peace of mind</b>. Know your family’s vegetables are au natural and grown just down the road. </span></p> <div style="mso-element:para-border-div;border:none;border-bottom:solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-bottom-alt:solid windowtext .75pt;padding:0in 0in 1.0pt 0in"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="border:none;mso-border-bottom-alt:solid windowtext .75pt; padding:0in;mso-padding-alt:0in 0in 1.0pt 0in"><span style="font-family:Cochin">This year’s Spring/Summer program will run 18 weeks with the first delivery/pick-up in early May (date TBA) .<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span><span style="color:red">The price of our regular membership/share will remain at $675.</span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Deliveries vary in quantity, depending on the season, but weigh between 8 and 18 Lbs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Payment received prior to the harvest season secures your membership and ensures we have the resources we need to produce a wide variety of crops while securing a reliable outlet for our product.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></span></p> </div> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="font-size:16.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;font-family:"Handwriting - Dakota"">“Plus” Membership</span></b></p> <div style="mso-element:para-border-div;border:none;border-bottom:solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-bottom-alt:solid windowtext .75pt;padding:0in 0in 1.0pt 0in"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="border:none;mso-border-bottom-alt:solid windowtext .75pt; padding:0in;mso-padding-alt:0in 0in 1.0pt 0in"><span style="font-family:Cochin">Harmony Ridge will also offer a ‘Plus’ program. ‘Plus’ members will receive all of the above listed benefits in addition to the following:<br /><br />• Locally sourced free-range eggs (weekly dozen)<br />• Locally sourced raw honey<br />• Locally sourced, seasonally available tree fruits and berries. All fruits will be as naturally grown as we can find.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>To give an idea of quantity any given week…strawberries (2 quart), blueberries (1 quart), Peaches (3-4 Lb), Apples (3-5 Lb).<br /><br /><span style="color:red">We have priced the “CSA Plus” at $915</span>. The added cost of the “Plus” program figures in the cost of sourcing, including the time we spend picking fruit and traveling to acquire these goodies.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="border:none;mso-border-bottom-alt:solid windowtext .75pt; padding:0in;mso-padding-alt:0in 0in 1.0pt 0in"> </p> </div> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Cochin">To secure your CSA share, please send a check payable to Harmony Ridge Farms, 3620 Rosebriar Circle, Winston-Salem, NC 27106 ($675 for regular membership and $915 for a “plus” membership) by Friday, February 24th.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>You may direct any questions to me, Isaac, at 336.467.1052 or </span><a href="mailto:harmonyridgefarms@gmail.com"><span style="font-family:Cochin">harmonyridgefarms@gmail.com</span></a><span style="font-family:Cochin">. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Cochin">A note about payments…if you wish to stagger your payment over 3 months you may do so.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Please remit the first 1/3<sup>rd</sup> payment prior to the 2/24/12 deadline.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>This payment will secure your membership.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>The following two payments will occur in March and April consecutively.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Regular membership paid in this way will result in 3 payments of $225, or for Plus Membership, 3 payments of $305.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Cochin">A few notes on CSA deliveries.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>We’ve decided to follow to the schedule we followed last fall.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>2011 SUMMER MEMBERS PLEASE NOTE THE CHANGE!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Members may choose between one of four delivery options:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>1.)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Pick-up shares at the farm on <span style="color:red">Wednesday evenings between</span> <span style="color:red">5 and 7:30PM</span>, 2.) meet me in the West End, W-S (location TBD) between <span style="color:red">10:30 and 11AM Thursdays</span> or 3.) meet me on the front porch of my parents’ house in the Greenbriar Farms Neighborhood at 3620 Rosebriar Circle, Winston-Salem, 27106 between <span style="color:red">12 noon and 1:00PM Thursdays</span> or 4.) request home delivery at an additional charge of $150.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Home deliveries will occur early Thursday afternoons.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>We ask that you choose one option and continue your schedule every week.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>We can accommodate reschedules with sufficient notice. (I should note we are considering a dropoff in Kernersville as well.)<br /><br />Thank you all for your time and consideration. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Cochin">Warm regards,</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Cochin">K. Isaac Oliver</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Cochin">Please kindly remit your payment to renew (or begin) your Harmony Ridge Farms CSA membership by tearing off the bottom portion of this page and sending a check payable to Harmony Ridge Farms, 3620 Rosebriar Circle, Winston-Salem, NC 27106. </span></p> <div style="mso-element:para-border-div;border:none;border-bottom:solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-bottom-alt:solid windowtext .75pt;padding:0in 0in 1.0pt 0in"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="border:none;mso-border-bottom-alt:solid windowtext .75pt; padding:0in;mso-padding-alt:0in 0in 1.0pt 0in"> </p> </div> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Handwriting - Dakota"">Yes!</span><span style="font-size:11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size:12.0pt"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Sign me up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I, ______________________ have enclosed a check for<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>$675 for regular membership. (Or initial $225 for payment plan)</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Handwriting - Dakota"">Yes!</span><span style="font-size:11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size:12.0pt"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Sign me up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I, ______________________<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>have enclosed a check for $915 for PLUS membership.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>(Or initial $305 for payment plan)</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:12.0pt">I will be picking up at ____ Harmony Ridge Barn on Wednesday evenings 5PM – 7:30PM</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:12.0pt"><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>____ West End on Thursday mornings 10:30AM – 11AM</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:12.0pt"><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>____ The Olivers’ house, 3620 Rosebriar Circle, W-S, 27106, Thursdays,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Noon – 1:00 PM</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:12.0pt">My current e-mail address(es)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>____________________________________________</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:12.0pt">My phone number(s)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>____________________________________________</span></p>K. Isaac Oliverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05466803610949485306noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8839434946732444026.post-1720012242610681812011-12-12T13:51:00.000-08:002011-12-12T14:44:54.789-08:002012 Harvest in Review<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdAiWcxZSWvlt8Nr8YkIwmsf4Xo2CABy1EhMEAmsjsWvLRojiOfO88lveYjAcy6X8a9Fy1tF30f8qGEgouO1MUMNqwtpVNf5S2-RxM0iItyNOLDt-98E5Pft7PM2oB7B_vy7r2-MjPm_I/s1600/IMG_0126.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdAiWcxZSWvlt8Nr8YkIwmsf4Xo2CABy1EhMEAmsjsWvLRojiOfO88lveYjAcy6X8a9Fy1tF30f8qGEgouO1MUMNqwtpVNf5S2-RxM0iItyNOLDt-98E5Pft7PM2oB7B_vy7r2-MjPm_I/s320/IMG_0126.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5685374091153315138" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /> <style> <!-- /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-parent:""; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";} @page Section1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.Section1 {page:Section1;} --> </style> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 14pt;font-size:12.0pt;" >Having a difficult time finding words for this newsletter I picked up my copy of Mary Oliver’s <i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal">American Primitive</i>, and opened at random.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Here I found…</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:12.0pt;" ><br /></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:12.0pt;" > </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 14pt;font-size:12.0pt;" >Fall Song</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:12.0pt;" ><br /></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:12.0pt;" > </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:12.0pt;" >Another year gone leaving everywhere </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 14pt;font-size:12.0pt;" >its riched spiced residues:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>vines, leaves,</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:12.0pt;" ><br /></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:12.0pt;" > </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:12.0pt;" >the uneaten fruits crumpling damply </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 14pt;font-size:12.0pt;" >in the shadows, unmattering back</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:12.0pt;" ><br /></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:12.0pt;" > </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:12.0pt;" >from the particular island </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 14pt;font-size:12.0pt;" >of this summer, this Now, that now is nowhere</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:12.0pt;" ><br /></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:12.0pt;" > </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:12.0pt;" >except underfoot, moldering</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 14pt;font-size:12.0pt;" >in that black subterranean castl</span><span style="font-size: 14pt;font-size:12.0pt;" >e</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 14pt;font-size:12.0pt;" ><br /></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:12.0pt;" > </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 14pt;font-size:12.0pt;" >of unobservable </span><span style="font-size:14.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:12.0pt;" >mysteries – roots and sealed seeds</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 14pt;font-size:12.0pt;" >and the wanderings of water.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>This</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:12.0pt;" ><br /></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:12.0pt;" > </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 14pt;font-size:12.0pt;" >I try to remember when time’s measure </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 14pt;font-size:12.0pt;" >Painfully chafes, for instance when autumn</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:12.0pt;" ><br /></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:12.0pt;" > </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 14pt;font-size:12.0pt;" >Flares out at the last – boisterous, and lik</span><span style="font-size:14.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:12.0pt;" >e us longing</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 14pt;font-size:12.0pt;" >To stay – how everything lives shifting</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:12.0pt;" ><br /></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:12.0pt;" > </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:12.0pt;" >From one bright vision to another, forever</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 14pt;font-size:12.0pt;" >In these momentary pastures.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:12.0pt;" ><br /></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:12.0pt;" > </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 14pt;font-size:12.0pt;" ><span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>There are no better words to describe the feeling about this time of year on a vegetable farm, when the cold and the rot and the dark finally overcome the once feverish life in the fields.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>It is fitting to think of the locus of this life and growth process moving underground, I can sense the movement a</span><span style="font-size: 14pt;font-size:12.0pt;" >s </span><span style="font-size: 14pt;font-size:12.0pt;" >I grow more reflective in the shortening days…reflective and restless at once, unsettling as a warm December, I too am “flaring out at the last” as the roots and the greens hold </span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_sA_R2Ma7fNsmgv7BYxOZG6PEyVVnP03xSJ4GqtjIiY_SyqKxIP5R10-nOO2bgzs8jvQsLyXdKcdsIlefyx7FiBIxF1l53c8x0wSicp62zJbym2HupVgTHwrRuiLNf6cf1xBq9owrQPA/s1600/IMG_0339.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_sA_R2Ma7fNsmgv7BYxOZG6PEyVVnP03xSJ4GqtjIiY_SyqKxIP5R10-nOO2bgzs8jvQsLyXdKcdsIlefyx7FiBIxF1l53c8x0wSicp62zJbym2HupVgTHwrRuiLNf6cf1xBq9owrQPA/s320/IMG_0339.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5685371942305025618" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size: 14pt;font-size:12.0pt;" >my imagination still.<br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:12.0pt;" ><br /></span></p><span style="font-size: 14pt;font-size:12.0pt;" >The Fall CSA has come </span><span style="font-size: 14pt;font-size:12.0pt;" >to an </span><span style="font-size: 14pt;font-size:12.0pt;" >end.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I believe it was a success and not too overbearing as I was afraid it may be, on th</span><span style="font-size: 14pt;font-size:12.0pt;" >e heels </span><span style="font-size: 14pt;font-size:12.0pt;" >of a particularly long and hot Summer. Owing to the abundant rain we’ve rec</span><span style="font-size: 14pt;font-size:12.0pt;" >eived since Septe</span><span style="font-size: 14pt;font-size:12.0pt;" >mber, much of the irrigation work (‘drip-running’) I did late summer to prepare was largel</span><span style="font-size: 14pt;font-size:12.0pt;" >y unnecessary.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>It’s been in the farmer’s best interest to get out of the way and on the h</span><span style="font-size: 14pt;font-size:12.0pt;" >orn.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>We established good contacts this Fall to help move some of the overflow.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Even so, much of those swelled-up roots, tender greens and fat broccoli shoots went straight into share boxes.<br /></span><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:12.0pt;" ><br /><span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:12.0pt;" > </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:12.0pt;" ><span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 14pt;font-size:12.0pt;" ><span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I believe investment in long-te</span><span style="font-size: 14pt;font-size:12.0pt;" >rm health begins with seasonal vegetables.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I also believe I would be amiss to not discuss vegetables and health when recapping this season.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Inspired by the documentary “Fat, Sick and Nearly Dead” and Dr. Furman’s Eat to Live program (and having loads of vegetables needing consumption) my dad decided to combine a juicing regimen while adopting </span><span style="font-size: 14pt;font-size:12.0pt;" >a vegetarian diet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>He lost 30 pounds in just a couple months and has steadily dropped another 10 since. Without minimizing the enormous physical benefits of losing the weight (he’s on his way to kicking his blood pressure meds), his attitude and outlook have undergone a sea chan</span><span style="font-size: 14pt;font-size:12.0pt;" >ge, there’s a kick in his step and light in his eye that helps pick me up when he drops by the farm at the end of his day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>For me it’s a wonderful thing to make a</span><span style="font-size: 14pt;font-size:12.0pt;" > business of producing something actually healthy on so ma</span><span style="font-size: 14pt;font-size:12.0pt;" >ny levels.<br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:12.0pt;" ><br /></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:12.0pt;" > </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 14pt;font-size:12.0pt;" >And produce we did this year (with Mother Nature on our side). The harvest began in April and has been nearly nonstop since.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>April brought green onions, salad mix, radishes and spinach.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>The first asparagus shoots got us excited for Spring 2012 when we’ll finally taste in earnest the fruit of their active ‘subterranean’ life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>May brought more salad greens, all sorts of lettuces, baby carrots and beets, Asian greens (Napa C</span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje2FX8NMqw8OejLjBIIsIauvcmRtUr6ZjI6Gdk8R4kJijOnVUsfcV5wLce4HAjncz1vo_jlhAhDaoOFkjizkgCoz4HGjTW-3zCuWdYaduiFNU3-R6D7SU8HStJyJPscokH5m2ex08WALo/s1600/IMG_0204.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje2FX8NMqw8OejLjBIIsIauvcmRtUr6ZjI6Gdk8R4kJijOnVUsfcV5wLce4HAjncz1vo_jlhAhDaoOFkjizkgCoz4HGjTW-3zCuWdYaduiFNU3-R6D7SU8HStJyJPscokH5m2ex08WALo/s320/IMG_0204.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5685371238367219026" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size: 14pt;font-size:12.0pt;" >abbage and chois), broccoli, leeks (an excit</span><span style="font-size: 14pt;font-size:12.0pt;" >ingly successful overwintering experiment), sugar snap peas, kohlrabi, chard and the first new potatoes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>June brought much more of May’s harvest with an emphasis on the roots (onions, beets, potatoes and carrots reaching maturity) in addition to cherry tomatoes, green beans, squashes, cucumbers and all sorts of herbs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Independence Day rolled around with our first Sweet Corn harvest just around the bend.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>While this first crop was small on the ears, there were three more crops to follow, seemingly each ‘louder’ than the previous.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>We were particular proud of our late August/early September harvest o</span><span style="font-size: 14pt;font-size:12.0pt;" >f bicolor Serendipity.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>More than a half acre of plump deliciousness.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Many a lunch I had in those rows.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Tomatoes really came on strong in Ju</span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPi8xL7pJyrCTV7K4oShST8KbpVtaXTlUyZhVG4uVEbdGa92nMVesEE3JIJ89dtMcGfGFhFKzMO-bMAMeKUn5XkZ4-A5tq59kO34T0eWQic-1dadaoOgAyG91Sg3yi2DmBMAEP2keiG-Q/s1600/IMG_0338.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPi8xL7pJyrCTV7K4oShST8KbpVtaXTlUyZhVG4uVEbdGa92nMVesEE3JIJ89dtMcGfGFhFKzMO-bMAMeKUn5XkZ4-A5tq59kO34T0eWQic-1dadaoOgAyG91Sg3yi2DmBMAEP2keiG-Q/s320/IMG_0338.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5685370778592580594" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size: 14pt;font-size:12.0pt;" >ly, and quite a vertible mi</span><span style="font-size: 14pt;font-size:12.0pt;" >x we handled this season.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Next year we’ll hone in on the bigger, more reliable heirlooms and hybrids to minimize picking.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I think we got a little overexcited last winter with our catalogs…the whole ’we should really try this one out…’ became a refrain that rang in my ears come August when the tomatoes seemed oh so small,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Peppers started rolling in early-mid July, along with fennel, cabbage and garlic.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:12.0pt;" ><br /><span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:12.0pt;" > </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 14pt;font-size:12.0pt;" ><span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>We planted a load of garlic cloves last fall…about 2300.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>The garlic harvest was accordingly abundant.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Nevertheless, there is a reason it is typically grown in near desert conditions…humid weather during curing and storage can invite rot.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>While much of it has kept fairly well hanging in the barn, I found quite a number of damaged cloves cleaning it this fall in preparation for planting.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Hopefully the stock will be viable for a successful (albeit intentionally smaller) harvest next year.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I’ve found it more in everyone’s interest to grow more sweet and storage onions next year instead of loads of garlic.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>We have yet to master the art of storing onions past October…it will certainly be an objective for next season.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 14pt;font-size:12.0pt;" ><br /></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:12.0pt;" > </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 14pt;font-size:12.0pt;" >August brought peppers, eggplant (although disappointing numbers and size), melons (also somewhat below our standard), the aforementioned sweet corn, more tomatoes, blueberries and hard squashes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>The blueberry bushes are reaching pretty decent size and should produce quite a bit next season.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>This August, we decided to make tree fruits part of our regular CSA shares.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> We sourced some magnificent fruit</span><span style="font-size: 14pt;font-size:12.0pt;" > from Windy Hill Orchard in Southern VA. T</span><span style="font-size: 14pt;font-size:12.0pt;" >heir apples and peaches are superb and nearly all-natural (they would I believe meet organic standards in WA state).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>September brought a close to our Summer CSA with some superb arugula. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Rounding out the late summer offerings were shallots, crowder peas, more green beans, sweet potatoes, okra, storage potatoes and onions.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:12.0pt;" ><br /></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:12.0pt;" > </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmkzxkRz08WHSvwK-9IICkgkl9p_spCk1nMCcff1u_7gykzOM6YCqLKjUr-OEYAP_ryEbm88TwsityyT1ifNZOZUtNa5zjFMqO50P6AZ_r1OxhL_MUkEsUummFONzdX3mCmA75ZE8oTw0/s1600/IMG_0405.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmkzxkRz08WHSvwK-9IICkgkl9p_spCk1nMCcff1u_7gykzOM6YCqLKjUr-OEYAP_ryEbm88TwsityyT1ifNZOZUtNa5zjFMqO50P6AZ_r1OxhL_MUkEsUummFONzdX3mCmA75ZE8oTw0/s320/IMG_0405.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5685369485592928642" border="0" /></a></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 14pt;font-size:12.0pt;" >Early October brought some </span><span style="font-size: 14pt;font-size:12.0pt;" >much-needed down time following preparations for the fall CSA.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>A restful vacation to</span><span style="font-size: 14pt;font-size:12.0pt;" > Asheville rejuvenated my weary bones and readied me for yet another harvesting bonan</span><span style="font-size:14.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:12.0pt;" >za.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>The Fall program brought kale, turnips, pac choi, peppers, lettuces, mesclun, green onion, chard, endive, mustard, beets, carrots, radishes, broccoli, cabbage and apples…which were supplemented by storage potatoes and sweet potatoes, garlic and hard squash.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Fall is my favorite time to dine from the garden, and chard one of my favorite veggies (I know it sounds crazy) so I’ve been living high on the hog.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>With a couple months to lay low, recharge and envision next season’s farm, I feel full of anticipation and gratitude.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Thank you and happy holidays.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></span></p>K. Isaac Oliverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05466803610949485306noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8839434946732444026.post-7553140581839220292011-08-16T08:06:00.000-07:002011-08-16T08:08:07.578-07:00Our Black Cherry Tomato Brings Home the Blue Ribbon<a href="http://www2.journalnow.com/lifestyles/2011/aug/10/tasting-ar-1283838/">http://www2.journalnow.com/lifestyles/2011/aug/10/tasting-ar-1283838/</a>K. Isaac Oliverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05466803610949485306noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8839434946732444026.post-85488434593885852312011-08-08T12:48:00.000-07:002011-08-08T12:56:59.367-07:00Wake Forest Magazine Interview<a href="http://magazine.wfu.edu/2011/08/04/feeding-the-soil-and-the-soul/">http://magazine.wfu.edu/2011/08/04/feeding-the-soil-and-the-soul/</a>
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<br /><p class="first_font">K. Isaac Oliver (’06) is managing partner of Harmony Ridge Farms, an organic vegetable farm and co-op in Tobaccoville, N.C. His father, Kevin, is the other half of the farm.</p> <p>“Harmony Ridge has been, I believe, a leap of faith for my father, entrusting me with not only the running of the farm and business (neither of which I had experience) but also with the rather dizzying task of growing about 35 varieties of vegetables and herbs, having only grown 10 or 12 of them in my previous home garden,” says Isaac. “I am still amazed at his enormous faith in me, and also by what we have accomplished thus far, through by what seems to be sheer determination and the belief that we could not fail.”</p> <p><strong>You were an English major at Wake Forest. How did you transition into running a successful farm and co-op?</strong></p> <p>Part of my amazement stems from my rather meandering career path. Since I have graduated from university, I have been a shoe salesman, construction worker, courier, part-time librarian, plant vendor and greenhouse technician. Anything to pay the bills in-between hiking and exploring nature. As is clear, I spent about zero time in the career center at Wake Forest. I owe my current success and the success of Harmony Ridge Farms to my father’s recognition of my potential.</p> <p><strong>Tell us about Harmony Ridge Farms.</strong></p> <p>Harmony Ridge Farms is an organic (though non-certified) vegetable and herb farm, now with 22 acres. Thus far we have supported a farm CSA (community supported agriculture) with added weekly restaurant sales having only cultivated less than two and a half acres. Our productivity in such a small space has been, in large part, the result of investing in and enriching our soil. The topography is variable, being hilly, with woods and two creeks. The soil types are variable as well and the topography allows for microclimates to exist, two factors that support diversity of plant life.</p> <p>I returned here after having spent some time roaming the great north woods of Washington State. When I wasn’t working at one of my odd jobs, I was observing nature, much of it within pristine, untamed wilderness. Watching and listening for so many hours I believe enhanced my connection to nature’s processes.</p> <p><a rel="attachment wp-att-2765" href="http://magazine.wfu.edu/2011/08/04/feeding-the-soil-and-the-soul/img_0198/"><img class="alignright size-medium wp-image-2765" src="http://magazine.wfu.edu/files/2011/08/IMG_0198-200x300.jpg" alt="" height="300" width="200" /></a>Once my wife and I moved back to Winston-Salem, my father and I got more serious about starting an organic farm. We began looking for the right property and almost instantly, a horse farm in Tobaccoville went on the market. Still unsure it was the right place, on our third visit we witnessed a wild turkey poult hatch, accepted this as a sign, bought the place, and went to work.</p> <p>All crops we grow are raised organically and include spinach, arugula, mesclun, carrots, leeks, lettuce, pac choi, Chinese cabbage, radishes, snap peas, broccoli, cauliflower, kale, cabbage, Swiss chard, beets, cucumbers, summer squash, potatoes, cherry tomatoes, heirloom and hybrid tomatoes, onions, shallots, garlic, fennel, green beans, sweet corn, peppers, okra, cowpeas, eggplant, winter squash, cantaloupe, watermelon, sweet potatoes, collards, other greens and assorted herbs, harvested in roughly that order (with much overlapping) starting in April and running until December.</p> <p><strong>How does the co-op work?</strong></p> <p>The farm co-op concept is simple. A family or individual purchases a share of the farm in early spring. In exchange they receive fresh harvested vegetables on a weekly basis for the remainder of the harvest season. Our main season runs 20 weeks from around mid May until mid September. The vegetables are variable and reflect the progression of the seasons. There are many variations but this is the basic idea.</p> <p><strong>Obviously sustainability is important on your farm. How do you manage it?</strong></p> <p>Sustainability is as vital as the soil to an organic farmer. A vegetable farm is only as sustainable as its soil. A good grower aims to feed not the plant, but the soil. Every time some quantity of nutrient or mineral is removed through plant metabolism it must be replenished. The two most effective ways to accomplish this are to add compost or grow cover crops (or both). Compost can be of animal origin (as long as it is broken down) or of mixed plant origin (vegetable scraps, grass clippings, straw, etc.) We use both, and cover crop wherever we have fallow ground, planting legumes or some kind of grass/legume blend (such as rye and vetch in the winter).</p> <p>Another way we manage the soil is to rotate crops. No one crop in the same family (tomatoes, potatoes, eggplant, and peppers are in the same family, for example) should be grown in the same plot twice for a four year period to reduce the risk of spreading plant disease and to manage available nutrients effectively.</p> <p>In addition to ensuring the sustainability of our soil, we produce the energy to heat our greenhouse, house and barn with wood harvested on our property from unhealthy trees or delivered by tree companies. We cut up the trees and feed them to a wood burning water stove that distributes the hot water underground to wherever we need heat.</p> <p><strong>Do you ever wonder if there will be a day when there are children who haven’t tasted a home-grown tomato or experienced the joy of planting a seed and watching it grow?</strong></p> <p>I do not worry about such a day ever arriving, en masse; the gardening tradition is too strong in agrarian areas and has been gaining in popularity amongst crafty young adults for some time. Gardening is such a basic way for people to connect to nature, even if it’s just a tomato plant on a windowsill.</p> <p>Even so, the removal of urban children (and adults) from such an opportunity and natural connection is, I believe, condition for any number of things to go awry. Many cities, Detroit comes to mind, are reclaiming abandoned lots and starting community gardens. They are springing up all over, as are farmer’s markets, but it will take concerted effort to engage young people in this way, and I believe incorporating gardening into public schools, as some districts have, would be a step in the right direction.</p> <p><strong>Were there people or classes at Wake Forest that influenced your life’s path?</strong></p> <p>When I hear this question I can’t help but think of Michele Gillespie. Her History of the New South rekindled my connection to this region and its history, its people and agrarian tradition. This feeling I held onto during my time on the West Coast, and it ever-tugged at my soles. Her spirit and passion for her craft was an inspiration to me. There were many others who helped shape me, particularly the faculty of the English department, and I am grateful.</p>
<br />K. Isaac Oliverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05466803610949485306noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8839434946732444026.post-42159019553860900132011-06-08T03:16:00.000-07:002011-06-09T10:03:25.280-07:00April/May 2011 Newsletter<style>@font-face { font-family: "Cambria"; }p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal { margin: 0in 0in 10pt; font-size: 12pt; font-family: "Times New Roman"; }div.Section1 { page: Sectio</style>Sometimes I am overtaken by gratitu<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHiEC3B0Oxh4tmAfKO3lizgpXTU4c4To6g95y4w5YffSJnBZ8bmRUDJuiOOWlbaMP3zoBC7bgikq_1JLXxuyq2ivfAZVlTyQJdCbBrsfpSUXy2jwNgf_EZJ7ODFaBkzz00zWQO3iejKSM/s1600/CIMG2996.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 283px; height: 213px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHiEC3B0Oxh4tmAfKO3lizgpXTU4c4To6g95y4w5YffSJnBZ8bmRUDJuiOOWlbaMP3zoBC7bgikq_1JLXxuyq2ivfAZVlTyQJdCbBrsfpSUXy2jwNgf_EZJ7ODFaBkzz00zWQO3iejKSM/s320/CIMG2996.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5616266129324674610" border="0" /></a>de for this place, these gardens and even for the time in which I live, we live. Like the Earth's movement, there is so much change afoot, and much of it passes without so much notice...a glimmer on a beetle's back. There is a merging of awareness that can seem sometimes no more than an exchange of a knowing glance. In these times of heightened awareness, I try not to clutch onto the sensation but let it pass and allow the sequence of experiences that follow be perceived simply, without judgment. It is incredible the way gratitude can wash away the mud of judgment and lift the fog of expectations. Living in gratitude is I think as close to simply "being" as can be.<br /><p class="MsoNormal"><br />GIFT<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixLqY5DcZ-yA_JH2-MRCk339GXvV-phHtaaFTqrXYVHlvk5uP-Fy3iTa3TlJmTrCP-3L_NyFQ008o_xkO4bBseYWJxL4zXPSu1NPM7KPte1SbaaZu7OGy5zAiQgP5VdCzc6G8xryO6wvc/s1600/IMG_0181.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 213px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixLqY5DcZ-yA_JH2-MRCk339GXvV-phHtaaFTqrXYVHlvk5uP-Fy3iTa3TlJmTrCP-3L_NyFQ008o_xkO4bBseYWJxL4zXPSu1NPM7KPte1SbaaZu7OGy5zAiQgP5VdCzc6G8xryO6wvc/s320/IMG_0181.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5616265451321725746" border="0" /></a><br />A day so happy<br />Fog lifted early, a day in the garden.<br />Hummingbirds were stopping over honeysuckle flowers.<br />There was no thing on earth I wanted to possess.<br />I knew no one worth my envying him.<br />Whatever evil I had suffered, I forgot.<br />To think that once I was the same man did not embarrass me.<br />In my body I felt no pain.<br />When straightening up, I saw the blue sea and sails.<br /><br />-Czeslaw Milosz<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">I will think of this last line when I am straightening up in the field and will not feel disappointment upon seeing instead a hill of browning wheat and hearing the bray of Bobby's donkey.<br /><br />Between these little recognitions, there is work. And a long work song it is. At times and earwig of a work song, forever prying me back at it, immersing me in a kind of frantic hypnosis, like a John Coltrane solo. It is feeble to attempt to complete all the tasks at hand, there are only a series of small triumphs, and I try to see each action as significant no matter how menial. This is easier to do when I have a sidekick to share the burden as I do with<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRehWgOFr-qKb2k6QYusIg7rUZ36ym9MjiP0qjWihlpAdpX13y4vcvErcT3KP9ZaNjrx9ythihLfi5qc0V6twQV2-i9l1fmo1Q0bGRCBGhP-NpVETzzz9reVQ8Y7OFt67g434R2xYZEvE/s1600/IMG_0178.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 213px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRehWgOFr-qKb2k6QYusIg7rUZ36ym9MjiP0qjWihlpAdpX13y4vcvErcT3KP9ZaNjrx9ythihLfi5qc0V6twQV2-i9l1fmo1Q0bGRCBGhP-NpVETzzz9reVQ8Y7OFt67g434R2xYZEvE/s320/IMG_0178.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5616264671327458914" border="0" /></a> Tyler, intern extraordinaire. His enthusiasm and humor has lightened the mood and he always takes his work and our occasional frustrations in stride. My Dad has<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTG1UosmVRzpKWhyJ4dmSOYT_cWiR2jtti-MJCrObEBzddarDEcDwPHfFKrRqPeMz6JD2nC4S8jrT3mFBQ-kq5WHWCoDyKQ6s8DPgPJWD0bf77xmEZGCBDYuOfZlpKaYt1Z-JNo6nP9B8/s1600/IMG_0176.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 274px; height: 182px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTG1UosmVRzpKWhyJ4dmSOYT_cWiR2jtti-MJCrObEBzddarDEcDwPHfFKrRqPeMz6JD2nC4S8jrT3mFBQ-kq5WHWCoDyKQ6s8DPgPJWD0bf77xmEZGCBDYuOfZlpKaYt1Z-JNo6nP9B8/s320/IMG_0176.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5616264934965019618" border="0" /></a> been right there with us, dedicating his scarce days off to see to it we keep in time with the many cycles of the garden. Each crop has a cyc<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5Ss6qycZyTbkC3P9TQH5R4QsWdkIEYB-YT6LO0_6XX0RjZ1QIxkTVZWc9qYTLAbcWzQdOvIR-GTwJnbZKUp0XORobgH0jkjPae8K9FSnDwiwueTX77n66JY_uGFdYtG3gCNkBNF4XQbo/s1600/IMG_0184.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5Ss6qycZyTbkC3P9TQH5R4QsWdkIEYB-YT6LO0_6XX0RjZ1QIxkTVZWc9qYTLAbcWzQdOvIR-GTwJnbZKUp0XORobgH0jkjPae8K9FSnDwiwueTX77n66JY_uGFdYtG3gCNkBNF4XQbo/s320/IMG_0184.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5616266501853857922" border="0" /></a>le, and with thirty-some crops the overlapping can be dizzying. The help I've received this Spring has been overwhelmingly generous...you know who you are, Dale, Holly, Grant, Wendy, Susan, Jeremy and many more, you all have my utmost appreciation.<br />May I also extend my gratitude to all of you supporters of our farm. You all have shared now in four weeks of harvest, and I hope your mealtimes have been enriched as ours have. Here are pictures of our first four weeks of CSA shares....</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGfBIRMEIekxfmuLgevw_16fnWioJyh_pm5FJTpTIW7DE9OEp0hGuL2rJPx4lsdbb-Z2_fSfQ0HjZy0LhlbSMlIjgtxmpvv6ALvC6m4OB0jfyHHl17W3vcx0Nb7jP-u88ufcUbN0m8Axc/s1600/CIMG3038.JPG"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 282px; height: 211px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGfBIRMEIekxfmuLgevw_16fnWioJyh_pm5FJTpTIW7DE9OEp0hGuL2rJPx4lsdbb-Z2_fSfQ0HjZy0LhlbSMlIjgtxmpvv6ALvC6m4OB0jfyHHl17W3vcx0Nb7jP-u88ufcUbN0m8Axc/s320/CIMG3038.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5615791934732077634" border="0" /></a></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjXgd8V5qDiCL4E1HNfYZzH3xHJoWZdNkU_8nllTTav2WjyobdG2J5qaVe06z6OeE_K3IEF4g0oeQO_b0Jm6EeCd2wh2U_hqUpGvODTr9erOnY01apDJ8hRL5iNFdtXpuK6s_4JVa3FsQ/s1600/IMG_0198.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 213px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjXgd8V5qDiCL4E1HNfYZzH3xHJoWZdNkU_8nllTTav2WjyobdG2J5qaVe06z6OeE_K3IEF4g0oeQO_b0Jm6EeCd2wh2U_hqUpGvODTr9erOnY01apDJ8hRL5iNFdtXpuK6s_4JVa3FsQ/s320/IMG_0198.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5615794163239560386" border="0" /></a></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiycpzV2xdxFzzqLORlqi6vYwzNMS1baovVj6SYtTrAQz7Y4pCD-3y7YC8sgU9i7aQZaPtvfYOC-9xfV4sNQJATN1VbrcnBGldWMcWN_wm3kuZq2wbbylUOhOfYAg1dQNcerjcEZqWcHnc/s1600/IMG_0220.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 299px; height: 199px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiycpzV2xdxFzzqLORlqi6vYwzNMS1baovVj6SYtTrAQz7Y4pCD-3y7YC8sgU9i7aQZaPtvfYOC-9xfV4sNQJATN1VbrcnBGldWMcWN_wm3kuZq2wbbylUOhOfYAg1dQNcerjcEZqWcHnc/s320/IMG_0220.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5615793365495354978" border="0" /></a></p><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />There is much goodness to come as we transistion into summer: (more) potatoes, onions, squash, cucumbers and beans, and it won't be long before tomatoes and corn grace our tables.<br /><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">Spring has been marked by early rain and humidity, giving way to brutal heat. A successive wave of cool fronts and many a storm passed through in May, a small tornado touching down less than a quarter mile away, destroying part of our neighbor's corn crop, downing some large trees and damaging a few structures (and blowing our snap peas off the trellises). Although the excessive rain has not significantly harmed our crops (save rotting a good number of lettuces), much of the seasonal fruit in the area has been ruined, including cherries and strawberries. The weather looks to be hot and humid this week, and hopefully not too dry for too much longer.<span style=""> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Believing, or wanting to believe we would continue to receive and inch or two of rain every week, I foolishly put off setting up our irrigation.<span style=""> Since May 20th we've received very little rain and very much heat. </span>Kevin, Tyler and I undertook a drip line laying marathon on Saturday, setting some 3000 feet of drip line.<span style=""> </span>I am still finding it difficult to stand up straight.<span style=""> </span>Surely this is a lesson in planning ahead and pacing.<span style=""> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal">We commenced our potato harvest June 1st and it appears we'll have an increase in productivity over last year, pulling almost three bushels of red potatoes out of one 120 ft. bed.<span style=""> </span>I believe the combination of planting mid-March, growing in sandy loam (vs. clay loam), manually hilling the plants after the first 8 inches of growth, spraying Monterey at first sight of Colorado Potato Beetles, and fertilizing a week after hilling has proven a productive method.<span style=""> </span>We have also planted about 750 Sweet Potato plants and have another 700<span style=""> </span>waiting to go in the ground for harvest in fall.<span style=""> </span>I don’t like to push a planting without any kind of reliable rain the forecast.<span style=""> </span>Looks as though we might finally get them in this weekend at our new property on Briggs Rd., where we now have a well in place.<span style=""> </span>We hit quite a good bit of water at a shallow depth…the amount of water at the depth predicted by the dowser we hired to “witch” the well. This should eventually allow us to drip irrigate another 5 to 7 acres, which will also allow us a greater flexibility to experiment with different cultural techniques without sacrificing productivity.<span style=""> </span>In addition, we will better be able to utilize cover crops to gradually increase soil fertility.<span style=""> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal">One of the highlights from this Spring has been our broccoli harvest.<span style=""> </span>Broccoli is typically a late summer-planted, fall-harvested crop, like other plants in<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUWcCfDIYYRv3f0pwhNgjuAjkewRfcttvKE-REwzeo3jVf5ij2WvwA2WgeHEerrJMLWdHBSGYguPVars0EO6aTPjg-Po0aibu8s27AI7jn1xuf330EoZcUvDjLS_X5zXa19YPe8D5EC6Q/s1600/IMG_0182.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUWcCfDIYYRv3f0pwhNgjuAjkewRfcttvKE-REwzeo3jVf5ij2WvwA2WgeHEerrJMLWdHBSGYguPVars0EO6aTPjg-Po0aibu8s27AI7jn1xuf330EoZcUvDjLS_X5zXa19YPe8D5EC6Q/s320/IMG_0182.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5616264359197012962" border="0" /></a> the brassica family (cauliflower, collards, kale, cabbage and kohlrabi).<span style=""> </span>The difficulty in growing it in the Spring here has to do with the early heat typical of a piedmont Spring.<span style=""> </span>Last Spring our broccoli was on the small side for a few main reasons: hot and dry weather, pot-bound plants started too early in the greenhouse, excess soil acidity and multiple frosts occurring post-transplant.<span style=""> </span>The wet Spring and (relatively) gradual heating made for a particularly generous (and tasty) harvest this Spring.<span style=""> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Another improvement t<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3XnbiyRU4g_N6fTf3dVQtaEGV7Gh2-0D_f3OIkZomJbBuc3zXuYEH-daOc9O0P43tKtTPmKMozqYweTG-H6huoMW8xRCW8pUcJl-E9toW0gbVzgwXZcEmGOShbGxgt9FAln1bEwU1Fnc/s1600/CIMG2965.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3XnbiyRU4g_N6fTf3dVQtaEGV7Gh2-0D_f3OIkZomJbBuc3zXuYEH-daOc9O0P43tKtTPmKMozqYweTG-H6huoMW8xRCW8pUcJl-E9toW0gbVzgwXZcEmGOShbGxgt9FAln1bEwU1Fnc/s320/CIMG2965.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5616263702621688978" border="0" /></a>o this year’s Spring harvest has been our Mesclun Spring Mix.<span style=""> </span>Many of the greens in this mix are in the Mustard family of garden crops.<span style=""> </span>Owing to their sweet flavor and high nutrition, many insects are drawn to them in Spring, dotting the leaves full of holes.<span style=""> </span>Flea beetles are particularly troubling to the organic gardener.<span style=""> </span>They also affect arugula, Napa Cabbage, Pac Choi, and Eggplant.<span style=""> </span>Because we do not like to spray leafy green crops (even using organic pesticides), we choose to “hide” the crop from would-be pests.<span style=""> </span>We use a transparent row cover to enclose the rows of mesclun (or Napa, eggplant, etc.)<span style=""> </span>This not only provides reasonable protection from bug damage, but also creates a greenhouse effect inside, quickening growth, while protecting the plants from late frosts.<span style=""> </span>We will continue to experiment using row covers in fall and winter to extend our greens harvest.<span style=""> </span>Unfortunately the summer heat here makes growing greens quite difficult, although we will attempt to grow arugula in afternoon shade.<span style=""> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal">While I have your attention I should announce our intention to hold an on-farm cookout on July 2<sup>nd</sup>.<span style=""> </span>More details will soon follow.<span style=""> </span>Thanks again to all of you for supporting our farm this season.<span style=""> </span>Until next time…</p> <p class="MsoNormal">-Isaac</p>K. Isaac Oliverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05466803610949485306noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8839434946732444026.post-71545061557590925402011-05-01T10:36:00.000-07:002011-05-01T10:37:23.411-07:002011 CSA Announcements<style>@font-face { font-family: "Cambria"; }@font-face { font-family: "Trebuchet MS"; }p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal { margin: 0in 0in 10pt; font-size: 12pt; font-family: "Times New Roman"; }div.Section1 { page: Section1; }</style> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";">A few announcements for you all. First, the Harmony Ridge 2011 CSA membership is officially full. A BIG thanks to all those supporting the farm. We look forward to a great harvest, to meeting all the new faces and to picking back up where we left off with all you return members. To those still wishing to join, please let me know and I'll add you to our wait list. We may have a few more openings in the near future if we find we can provide more than ample produce. The official delivery start date will be <span style="color: red;">Thursday May 12th (and Friday the 13th)</span>. <span style="color: black;">Please send me a quick e-mail reminding me of your delivery location preference. </span><span style="color: red;"><br /><br /></span><span style="color: black;">Delivery schedule will be as follows: <br /></span><span style="color: red;">Thursday</span><span style="color: black;"> pick-up at the farm (3835 Bowens Rd., Tobaccoville, NC, 27050) between 5pm and 7:30pm. Please pull into the gravel driveway just West of the paved driveway and proceed to the barn on the right. <br /></span><span style="color: red;">Friday</span><span style="color: black;">'s schedule will be as follows: </span>between 10:30 and 11AM at New Planet Yoga, Burke St.,West End<br /> between 11:45AM and 1:15 PM at my parents’ house in the Greenbriar Farms Neighborhood at 3620 Rosebriar Circle, Winston-Salem, 27106<br /><br />Once again, <span style="color: red;">please send me a quick e-mail reminding me of your delivery location preference! </span><span style="color: black;">Please also try to pick-up in the same place each week. If you need to make alternate arrangements, give me as much notice as possible. I will have my cell on me when I make deliveries, so feel free to contact me if something comes up (336.467.1052)</span><span style="color: red;"><br /><br /></span><span style="color: black;">In your first box you will find a "Unwanted Vegetables" checklist. Please fill this out and return the following week, so that we</span><span style="color: red;"> </span><span style="color: black;">will know which items to hold back in your future delivery crates. <br /><br />As for the crates, you will be issued 2 for the season. </span><span style="color: red;">Please return the previous week's empty crate each week so we can trade you the new week's full crate</span><span style="color: black;">. If you forget, don't despair, we will have some spares.<br /><br />We use a minimal amount of plastic for packaging, but when we do, we hope that you will rinse it and place it inside your empty crate so we can reuse.<br /><br />Produce will be washed to the best of our ability before it is placed in your box, but we ask that you wash all produce before consuming. <br /><br />That's all for now, please let me know of any additional questions or concerns.</span></span></p>K. Isaac Oliverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05466803610949485306noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8839434946732444026.post-55629560735092395952011-03-31T12:06:00.000-07:002011-03-31T14:01:21.732-07:00February/March 2011 Newsletter<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3s23L0YT9x3zprvqC3HRye44_3hxs6Q9SqrEKDfGCRU97QFOv7r4rK2O39Z57bF2gwXI4cXChu93hrOkq0u_MErY14Abi41jdYSmmqazZRb2u1jOjoJzxwyh1PTmitbz6GojC-6k7Bl0/s1600/CIMG2853.JPG"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3s23L0YT9x3zprvqC3HRye44_3hxs6Q9SqrEKDfGCRU97QFOv7r4rK2O39Z57bF2gwXI4cXChu93hrOkq0u_MErY14Abi41jdYSmmqazZRb2u1jOjoJzxwyh1PTmitbz6GojC-6k7Bl0/s320/CIMG2853.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5590328396794672002" border="0" /></a><br /><style>@font-face { font-family: "Cambria"; }p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal { margin: 0in 0in 10pt; font-size: 12pt; font-family: "Times New Roman"; }div.Section1 { page: Section1; </style><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />The promise of regeneration resides in every flowering tree.<span style=""> </span>It seems there is a hard, cold stretch before a thing of beauty can take shape.<span style=""> </span>And when it does, it is unexpected, and a treasure to behold.<span style=""> </span>Nature reminds us in March that out of difficulty and out of seeming death a thing of beauty can grow, and, if the conditions are right, feed and sustain another.<span style=""> </span>Spring is a persistent season, urging us to break from our drab winter cloak and greet the sun with flying colors.<span style=""> </span>And she can be cold, sending us right back into our shell.<span style=""> </span>This in-between time leading into full-blown Spring is like a recalibrating of sorts, and if we are attuned, we can acknowledge the shifts and grow alongside.<span style=""> </span>Spring was always the most difficult season for me, until I got into growing…then I forgot about most everything else...as Spring has become something like marathon nursing. With each decision, I’m asking the question, “How can I create the conditions for optimal growth?”<span style=""> </span>and “How can I cultivate a semblance of order amidst all this green opportunity?”<span style=""> </span> <p class="MsoNormal"> I’m answering the first question each time my Dad and I stack a load of wood next to the water stove, knowing it will keep the tomato seedlings warm on these chilly nights.<span style=""> </span>I’m answering every time I hand-water seedlings, getting a better feel for their thirst as I gain experience.<span style=""> </span>I answer every time I decide it’s dry enough to till, feeling the earth crumble, knowing the resulting mix will breathe and relax and not clench up and bake when the sun burns hotter.<span style=""> </span>I’m answering with each decision to transplant into the field, with a faith the plants I’ve nursed in the most optimal of conditions will survive and thrive in an uncertain environment, this fickle Spring.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> The second question (“How can I create a semblance of order amidst all this green opportunity?”) is an easier question to answer, and yet a more difficult one to put into practice.<span style=""> </span>By “green opportunity” I refer to weeds and tilled ground. As Peter Fos<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq5c3GMAzQmKOlM-5HUeICGftUSZMGAKUbzTbEiPeOhtfqeTbymcFfo-aHrqIW21NxnHDAkG4QEvJ0BpfJ_p_xbjx17rqH2rqrBa1aToRidSHY3_rjtWInEWibW3lTP32Y8jexsR64xXs/s1600/CIMG2885.JPG"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq5c3GMAzQmKOlM-5HUeICGftUSZMGAKUbzTbEiPeOhtfqeTbymcFfo-aHrqIW21NxnHDAkG4QEvJ0BpfJ_p_xbjx17rqH2rqrBa1aToRidSHY3_rjtWInEWibW3lTP32Y8jexsR64xXs/s320/CIMG2885.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5590341758368531682" border="0" /></a>sel states, “Weeds are nothing more than nature’s attempt to bring stability to what she considers a highly unstable and volatile environment…Nature wants a…high degree of biodiversity.<span style=""> </span>What we want is a high degree of corn or broccoli.” Last season, our weeds grew too mature, too quickly for us to handle manually.<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>So we’re taking a different approach this season.<span style=""> </span>We’re answering the question at hand by investing in the tools and materials we need to confront the many waves of emergence.<span style=""> </span>Where we cannot weed around sensitive squash, melons and sweet potato vines, we are laying plastic.<span style=""> </span>Where added soil heat may improve yields we are also laying plastic.<span style=""> </span>Everywhere else we are planting rows at least 10” apart to allow easy passage of our beloved wheel hoe.<span style=""> </span>It is essentially a stirrup-shaped blade that sits behind a wheel and below two handles.<span style=""> </span>And I will tell you, this hoe on a wheel will be busy.<span style=""> </span>Its continued use at the right times (when weeds are at their “white thread” stage and preceding a rain) should, at the very least, allow us to find our crops.<span style=""> </span><br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Some folks have asked me, “What is fresh at this time of the year?”<span style=""> </span>These are lean times indeed in the garden.<span style=""> </span>We have found ways to stretch our winter harvest with minimal effort.<span style=""> </span>We erected a couple of row covers late last fall to protect some spinach, arugula, lettuce, carrots (and leeks).<span style=""> </span>We are trying the theory that spinach grows best if fall-panted, and so we planted some in each season to compare.<span style=""> </span>We’ve found that its performance may also be more cultivar-dependent than some other vegetables, as one<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlZDhF5y2x8pWCQTtjCE0ywN1eoI8OJ9dsulOF2wftxHlGqkK4AB4xamaQobTYSUEIC1-8Pb4AquvA1kRAzERilVMk0TCdbeiZzjYQ7R6CMWwh2rCW7q3qGkoWv340ivpU4EYhPjBlL_g/s1600/CIMG2811.JPG"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlZDhF5y2x8pWCQTtjCE0ywN1eoI8OJ9dsulOF2wftxHlGqkK4AB4xamaQobTYSUEIC1-8Pb4AquvA1kRAzERilVMk0TCdbeiZzjYQ7R6CMWwh2rCW7q3qGkoWv340ivpU4EYhPjBlL_g/s200/CIMG2811.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5590343748566270546" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhguGiNBYc2K2XCbW72FgPFMU7zJDm-H6s-31vWVYFxcIh4M2Z2UHsUDypDPz3InZcUpqt3vlAYaw4ekTxAkRIrzPO6vrQNm8EW7u88l3m6T9ZwTcm_RM1n4KjPpLcTF3IizJ7CXtpJuR8/s1600/CIMG2820.JPG"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhguGiNBYc2K2XCbW72FgPFMU7zJDm-H6s-31vWVYFxcIh4M2Z2UHsUDypDPz3InZcUpqt3vlAYaw4ekTxAkRIrzPO6vrQNm8EW7u88l3m6T9ZwTcm_RM1n4KjPpLcTF3IizJ7CXtpJuR8/s200/CIMG2820.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5590343988325443010" border="0" /></a> variety (Tyee) is far outperforming the other (Bloomsdale).<span style=""> </span>We’ve been munching on much steamed spinach, as well as the fall-planted lettuce, green onions, kale and carrots.<span style=""> </span>The greatest surprise by far was the lettuce’s survival.<span style=""> </span>Planted in early November and withstanding a cold winter, we are still harvesting cuttings.<span style=""> </span>From our experience this winter, gardening in winter is quite easy if you leave enough food under row covers in late fall…it doesn’t grow much, but the plants are preserved like little living monuments to the fall garden. </p> <p class="MsoNormal">We have continued to erect row covers into Spring.<span style=""> </span>Asian greens (pac choi, tatsoi) and anything in the mustard family (including most mesclun mix ingredients) fall prey to flea beatles in April.<span style=""> </span>The surest way to protect them is simply to hide them.<span style=""> </span>If our little experiment works, we should be able to provide a greater a variety of succulent greens come May.<span style=""> </span>And well, if they’re shot full o’ holes you know we tried. </p> <p class="MsoNormal">By now, I’ve seeded just about all our Spring and early-Summer crop, and we’ve planted most of our potatoes and onions.<span style=""> </span>The potatoes we planted are Yukon golds, a couple red varieties and two types of fingerlings.<span style=""> </span>I went a little crazy on the onions, planting thousands, but I alone am not to blame, as we had a little help from our friends: Grant, Wendy, Virgil, Ted, my dad Kevin and my wife Holly all pitched in.<span style=""> </span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp0uDi0NcnExrcswvrsgZCAGVdckiIR-MdmyXw0B0Clbg3Z4QfbYgN9ZdUErwk34RFHltzoon6UB7N239CPLFdcg9uAUVeBMtdQGiYg9ijkR2NHitVxVHN2mlCXmc_QL_TmPK7MEOCPu8/s1600/CIMG2928.JPG"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp0uDi0NcnExrcswvrsgZCAGVdckiIR-MdmyXw0B0Clbg3Z4QfbYgN9ZdUErwk34RFHltzoon6UB7N239CPLFdcg9uAUVeBMtdQGiYg9ijkR2NHitVxVHN2mlCXmc_QL_TmPK7MEOCPu8/s320/CIMG2928.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5590342766657309490" border="0" /></a>Grant is here almost every Saturday, wide-eyed and sometimes bushy-tailed.<span style=""> </span>Family friends from St. L<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-sWG9IkNtfcuR7Wc6qn5-IukZBS1ptJ2RXG6n2KM-QFpTo4ljkz4ihAp8bNFtLoAcU65GKFATRRfuzYB7Z_SwNBgR-zOZLcLB9YjvjiWN0P_AOdak3S-A6ZdRnMBJEhanvOApYrZmeqc/s1600/CIMG2882.JPG"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-sWG9IkNtfcuR7Wc6qn5-IukZBS1ptJ2RXG6n2KM-QFpTo4ljkz4ihAp8bNFtLoAcU65GKFATRRfuzYB7Z_SwNBgR-zOZLcLB9YjvjiWN0P_AOdak3S-A6ZdRnMBJEhanvOApYrZmeqc/s320/CIMG2882.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5590331366090112434" border="0" /></a>ouis, the O’Neals were in last week, and we were fortunate to have the help of Mark erecting trellises and daughter Isabel to transplant tomatoes and herbs in the greenhouse.<span style=""> </span>A big thank you to Holly for all her hard work in the greenhouse this Spring<span style=""> </span>and to my Mom, Wendy, for the delicious meals, and, I should add, for both of you for putting up with your manure-slinging farm husbands, no easy task for sure.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">While I’m handing out thank-yous, I should thank all of you that have placed your faith in us to grow your produce this season.<span style=""> </span>We are doing everything in our power to prepare for the harvest.<span style=""> </span>May it be abundant!<span style=""> </span>I should note that we have five 2011 CSA memberships still available for purchase.<span style=""> </span>If you’ve put it off, now’s your chance! To enroll, please make check payable to Harmony Ridge Farms, 3835 Bowens, Rd., Tobaccoville, NC 27050. Basic program is $675 and "plus" $895. You may read more here: ______________ </p><p class="MsoNormal">I would also like to thank Wildfire Creative for designing our new logo, as seen at the top of this screen. I admit being finicky during the creative process, but Chris, Tony and company had the uncanny ability to decipher exactly what stood in my mind's eye.</p><p class="MsoNormal">Thanks also to Peter V. Fossel for writing "Organic Farming: Everything You Need to Know." I referred to the chapter "Weed Limits".</p><p class="MsoNormal">I will leave you with a few more pictures from the farm and a fond farewell.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">(1)These have all been moved to the field. (2) Oh so many onions. (3) Ted and Virgil<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj13gsFVSuT7RSABF2NULdrVK9xrTMxF6KvUSp4T3yYGa2tDhrXRsn_JYockFCWpwysSW7mAoVwCX6U4dT6sE2KnOgsuToGX8oINgpGZJQfdjIbHLC0aY9zI7UdIJAUvFXDmiqDvP561jg/s1600/CIMG2932.JPG"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj13gsFVSuT7RSABF2NULdrVK9xrTMxF6KvUSp4T3yYGa2tDhrXRsn_JYockFCWpwysSW7mAoVwCX6U4dT6sE2KnOgsuToGX8oINgpGZJQfdjIbHLC0aY9zI7UdIJAUvFXDmiqDvP561jg/s320/CIMG2932.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5590340824886099138" border="0" /></a></p><p class="MsoNormal"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb4S1sL9iL0RbvVUjPUGZBHDQY6glqwVZZqhRP9dIgfg0nFHDmYTUo27WTg0UtB8iWRKnCvMlDkU-wgQEtUc3WsXOZaRP5SDP3ygMBGQJkSdopy3VPSKR3B4tFMcJY_uzzAhVF_fnWyAs/s1600/CIMG2890.JPG"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb4S1sL9iL0RbvVUjPUGZBHDQY6glqwVZZqhRP9dIgfg0nFHDmYTUo27WTg0UtB8iWRKnCvMlDkU-wgQEtUc3WsXOZaRP5SDP3ygMBGQJkSdopy3VPSKR3B4tFMcJY_uzzAhVF_fnWyAs/s320/CIMG2890.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5590347296605402338" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8Uxx9WhGF47-pgtcOh01Klw0XRmo6Ab-m8AvZV6phu1zVOhoS5-GkSBpk-Ewif5fGp4eS0JEPtdNKsNCq-kugS2I0HxespzezamAfhHsP5WKTehtIDOtEVqfkQF_tcLKPPEhEM4i0OCQ/s1600/CIMG2869.JPG"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8Uxx9WhGF47-pgtcOh01Klw0XRmo6Ab-m8AvZV6phu1zVOhoS5-GkSBpk-Ewif5fGp4eS0JEPtdNKsNCq-kugS2I0HxespzezamAfhHsP5WKTehtIDOtEVqfkQF_tcLKPPEhEM4i0OCQ/s320/CIMG2869.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5590344838903744706" border="0" /></a></p>K. Isaac Oliverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05466803610949485306noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8839434946732444026.post-16196415256730745042011-02-02T06:11:00.000-08:002011-02-02T16:07:44.576-08:00January 2011 Newsletter<style>@font-face { font-family: "Cambria"; }@font-face { font-family: "Cochin"; }p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal { margin: 0in 0in 10pt; font-size: 12pt; font-family: "Times New Roman"; }div.Section1 { page: Section1</style><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5pIXfpFKIcdMpKE5_Ul3-ibqvw_EAunNO-ie7DG_x9CN0BStTWsE7o1SzGQ88AXH3B6UiHE9PrwFwZL0do6oQKYffExdLxTovUgYLPAJY4eWQzK_kCl0PoKr7hcOyByljUhKnZdWp4ik/s1600/CIMG2737.JPG"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5pIXfpFKIcdMpKE5_Ul3-ibqvw_EAunNO-ie7DG_x9CN0BStTWsE7o1SzGQ88AXH3B6UiHE9PrwFwZL0do6oQKYffExdLxTovUgYLPAJY4eWQzK_kCl0PoKr7hcOyByljUhKnZdWp4ik/s200/CIMG2737.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5569122446866317410" border="0" /></a><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" >A long shadow is cast by the great white oak in front the barn:<span style=""> </span>a solemn reminder winter’s long in the passing.<span style=""> </span>The same birds gather here for breakfast at the foot of the old tree, arriving </span><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" >each on time and trading stations on schedule, this hour bringing the cardinal and blue jay.<span style=""> </span>The jay will by nature stru</span><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" >t and eat and intimidate the new arrivals like some bullying senior cadet.<span style=""> </span>The cardinal will live and let live, taking only what she needs.<span style=""> </span>Her un</span><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" >prepossessing grace an easy extension of her drab coat – a scarce fleck of orange an outward murmur of her inner strength.</span> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" >In the distance, beyon</span><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" >d the checkered and chilled vegetable plot at the crest of the hill, the necks of Canada Gee</span><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" >se bob up into view</span><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" >, ea</span><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" >ch taking their turn to lookout, then back down to peck and scavenge a</span><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" >mongst the corn stubble. <span style=""> </span>There is a line of sleeping and skeletal hardwoods behind them, their white vulnerability set off by the ev</span><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" >ergreen virility of the occasional pine and cedar.<span style=""> </span>Above that, a sky of such muted la</span><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" >venders only a winter morning could produce.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" >It’s the kind of scene that dredges up some dormant and big gratitude, and, with a sudden turn of thought, a sadness brought by the realization that many are barred by circumstance from experiencing these wonders. And, many who do have access see it merely as something separate – land worth possessing for whatever profit it is most suited.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" >When we can r</span><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" >elate, recognize and be lifted by nature in its many forms, we can enter unclouded by any estimati</span><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" >on of its worth.<span style=""> </span>We may accept the scene not as ours to mold, but as an extension of our physical selves, as fa</span><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" >mily. Just as we do not own our brother or sister, nor do we truly own this land or its inhabitants, fo</span><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" >r it, like family, is bigger than the sum of any one of us.<span style=""> </span>Its wisdom knows no bounds, and it is our constant forg</span><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" >etting of </span><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" >this wisdom that brings on the sudden sadness.<span style=""> </span>Our juvenile refusal to coexist – or</span><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" > at least</span><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" > acknowledge – underlies our </span><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" >seperation.<span style=""> </span>It’s like family:<span style=""> </span>when mama ain’t happy, ain’t nobody happy.<span style=""> </span>In other words, we’ve been strutting around like the jay much too long.<span style=""> </span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" >I suppose t</span><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" >hese thoug</span><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" >hts</span><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibAMCFcqxGKlxOmjphGPoKCSKaUZJfeokMbBPY324JKa7QH5XPzf8qSA-1fvwEqmZasmW3_DKzh8A5DZfMgzCE8YU1x_h341jvm8p7dHODwrYXjjtw70naEURUtgrwFfTA9nPdNjRJPc4/s1600/CIMG2603.JPG"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibAMCFcqxGKlxOmjphGPoKCSKaUZJfeokMbBPY324JKa7QH5XPzf8qSA-1fvwEqmZasmW3_DKzh8A5DZfMgzCE8YU1x_h341jvm8p7dHODwrYXjjtw70naEURUtgrwFfTA9nPdNjRJPc4/s200/CIMG2603.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5569125668313789202" border="0" /></a></span><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" > are brought on by the prospect of acquiring more land near the farm and the attendant thoughts of land ownership </span><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" >and its meaning as other than a blank slate to be “written upon”.<span style=""> </span>So </span><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" >much former farmland is bei</span><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" >ng lost forever – the rate of loss is among t</span><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" >he highest in NC (<span style="">766,000 acres of prime NC farmland were lost between 1982 and 2007 according to the American Farmland Trust</span>).<span style=""> </span>I call this the “blank slate disease”.<span style=""> </span>The greatest rate of return is to develop, and there are sometimes good reasons to do so.<span style=""> </span>But, to develop is to inevitably lose the land’s intrinsic value, its many lifeforms, and lose it forever.<span style=""> </span>So much attention is given to forest conservation (and rightly so), but farms are disappearing right alongside our wild brethren. Small farms are being swallowed by agribusiness and our country's lifeblood and food security right along with it. We cannot hinge our country's future on a wholly unsustainable food system. It will be up to small farmers and organic farmers to continue to protect the integrity and tradition of land stewardship. I'm proud to be a small part this movement, which is nothing really new at all. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" >The land we may buy lies just beyond the aforemen</span><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" >tioned line of trees and would significantly expand our potential vegetable p</span><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" >ro</span><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" >duction. Although we have enough arable land (about 3 acres) now to allow for a good bit of growth fo</span><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" >r our farm and CSA, our ability to allow for a proper crop rotation is hindered, particula</span><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" >rly if we are to allow some tracts to lie fallow in cover crop and ensure a continued increase in soil fertility.<span style=""> </span>E</span><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" >ssentially, more land will allow for continual, sustainable farm growth (just as a greater</span><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" > tract of preserved forest would allow for sustainable animal populations).<span style=""> </span>To sustain a diversified vegetable operation, variety and vigor of microbial soil life is everything </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" >Winter’s sho</span><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" >wn li</span><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" >ttle sign of letting up of late, so a day here or there in the greenhouse helps us chase away the winter blues.<span style=""> </span>Most sunny days temperatures reach the mid to upper 70s under plastic, allowing for enough po</span><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe_T5mkG0NfJ0eVKcy3lGNV2fU_fn5-aZygGKlc3tP67hM5RsFTfL_1Mf4H1z8xfclYuaRASEohyphenhyphenDzH7wbk8QNJRVR7KG28WTbhjixTmADLOTiprD8CRiu8nci9ClLzbDFE5oQj7Saoi4/s1600/CIMG2701.JPG"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe_T5mkG0NfJ0eVKcy3lGNV2fU_fn5-aZygGKlc3tP67hM5RsFTfL_1Mf4H1z8xfclYuaRASEohyphenhyphenDzH7wbk8QNJRVR7KG28WTbhjixTmADLOTiprD8CRiu8nci9ClLzbDFE5oQj7Saoi4/s200/CIMG2701.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5569112183075036018" border="0" /></a></span><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" >tent</span><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_JCYmIaFILUgj8cxg5JUPhM6_2I1RZxPKy5QSu_tHWTEfpJ7owdw_0gHspJAE3SjCgw4UiEakaf0kz4PxB2XLepA_AU48N48OlxFnLQ3OVVT42qt5etFFQ_slO7Q9ej8HAUKogqoQniA/s1600/CIMG2696.JPG"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_JCYmIaFILUgj8cxg5JUPhM6_2I1RZxPKy5QSu_tHWTEfpJ7owdw_0gHspJAE3SjCgw4UiEakaf0kz4PxB2XLepA_AU48N48OlxFnLQ3OVVT42qt5etFFQ_slO7Q9ej8HAUKogqoQniA/s200/CIMG2696.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5569112700414057346" border="0" /></a></span><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" >ial growth to justify early planting.<span style=""> </span>We sowed onion seed and some</span><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" > herbs, while munching on some of the lettuce and mes</span><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" >clun mix we kept alive through the winter. We propagated som</span><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" >e chard from last year’s side shoots, and it has held on nicely through the winter (pictured i</span><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" >n pot). As soon as our organic soil provider can exchange out the overly wet medium they brought us this winter, we c</span><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" >an really get sowing.<span style=""> </span>Broccoli, spinach, cauliflower, lettuce, salad mix, kale, chard and beet seeds will be planted next week, along with a wide range of culinary herbs and s</span><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" >ome S</span><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" >pring-planted flowers.<span style=""> </span></span><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" ><span style=""> </span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" >Diversity is a key ingredient in any natural sys</span><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" >tem.<span style=""> </span>Where one variety may fail, another may flourish, and so we really try and mix it up out in the field.<span style=""> </span>If I may, I’d like to profile some of the more delectable and interest</span><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" >in</span><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" >g varieties that will color our fields this year:</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" ><br /></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" >Red Long O</span><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" >nion of Tropea</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" >Italy’s most prized onion was born along the stretch of coastline between Capo Vaticano and Vibo Valentia in the region of Calabria. The Tropea Long is one of the sweetest red o</span><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGoRAps3J6us1WZr2_YqL5-ye9LZ4byJxmj_dxQE_qqH7YUW1ojF_lRgyoaf_GLu0jxAhydfUg8XCToNZliNfAaBsFC9KRwCZG2cXSXZZqTlR7nDmHI_gp9RinRJ7t8TRwxfP1IQgwKew/s1600/red+long+of+tropea+.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 174px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGoRAps3J6us1WZr2_YqL5-ye9LZ4byJxmj_dxQE_qqH7YUW1ojF_lRgyoaf_GLu0jxAhydfUg8XCToNZliNfAaBsFC9KRwCZG2cXSXZZqTlR7nDmHI_gp9RinRJ7t8TRwxfP1IQgwKew/s200/red+long+of+tropea+.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5569110459341848818" border="0" /></a></span><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" >nions, and having the lowest lacrimal factor, it does not make you cry. It has a slightly elongat</span><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" >ed shape and a deep red, wine color. </span><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" >We will also grow the much-v</span><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" >aunted Candy as well as two more Italian heirlooms:<span style=""> </span>Rosa di Milano and Bianca di Maggia.<br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" ><br /></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" > </span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" > </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" > </span></p><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" >Delicata Zeppelin Squash</span> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" >As those who b</span><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoX0Dm84Ex8HdsqOdBMw5K90_eNx-JkyFUxFZdRh8luVm4TASMj5CV1V6A_yw_xCmR1-oVyt1VDfIolPAw6NiMUUKVUGD3yUIDY9PDXnSF3EKN5DWpUuVpZCoLY0B5ZoaIqh0uLzKTgtQ/s1600/Delicata.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoX0Dm84Ex8HdsqOdBMw5K90_eNx-JkyFUxFZdRh8luVm4TASMj5CV1V6A_yw_xCmR1-oVyt1VDfIolPAw6NiMUUKVUGD3yUIDY9PDXnSF3EKN5DWpUuVpZCoLY0B5ZoaIqh0uLzKTgtQ/s200/Delicata.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5569106453629118562" border="0" /></a></span><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" >ought </span><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" >from us last fall can attest, this winter squash has fabulously sweet and moist flesh, an</span><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" >d is great r</span><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" >oasted or for pies. At about a pound each it is the perfect size to share between two people.<span style=""> </span>It is the squash for lovers or just two squash lovers sitting down for a helping of squash.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" ><br /></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" > </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" > </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" > </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" >Hillbilly Tomato</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" >This tomato is</span><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfcU1bFZgmoH1FXx_Lbqm6v1a3ZCORRy77cSAv3PPxaWSP3_M9R-NLPoLsKcDpFGTFejCsi2g-_Kz6naN_uT-AZeEAPQQALolBqw1vsRtAcwXWujz8ICQTeVwbr0XBnQupoDbzdFb5BjI/s1600/GetImage.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfcU1bFZgmoH1FXx_Lbqm6v1a3ZCORRy77cSAv3PPxaWSP3_M9R-NLPoLsKcDpFGTFejCsi2g-_Kz6naN_uT-AZeEAPQQALolBqw1vsRtAcwXWujz8ICQTeVwbr0XBnQupoDbzdFb5BjI/s200/GetImage.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5569105631284154002" border="0" /></a></span><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" > qui</span><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" >te large, sometimes 2 Lbs and colorful. <span style=""> </span>The flavor is subtle as its name suggests.<span style=""> </span>Mild and nuanced, just like a taciturn hillbilly.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" > </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" > </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" ><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" >Nyagous Tomato</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" >This one </span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg54QIeUskXds-_3MLtEsNW-Xj_hWP6Y97dM7zPwk03gadFSMyy5BKCwKqyAXu_YLUl_bic1QBHzifm0aCrbB9UI_F9JK7cGMQEY8Bvhrz8CQsFGN9LY7lLEOluxoMzmANENxzpSQJf_5I/s1600/url-2.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg54QIeUskXds-_3MLtEsNW-Xj_hWP6Y97dM7zPwk03gadFSMyy5BKCwKqyAXu_YLUl_bic1QBHzifm0aCrbB9UI_F9JK7cGMQEY8Bvhrz8CQsFGN9LY7lLEOluxoMzmANENxzpSQJf_5I/s200/url-2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5569147617773114770" border="0" /></a><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" >is not only red, it’s Russian.<span style=""> </span>I tried one grown locally last season and was </span><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" >intrigued.<span style=""> </span>It is the dry white wine of tomatoes.<span style=""> </span>There’s a </span><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" >range of Russian heirloom tomatoes, and all of them are quite strange.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" ><br /><span style=""> </span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" > </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" >Oregon Giant Sn</span><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" >ow Pea</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" >This is a large pod</span><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_WgEuhIVDTlWuOuEr0icKIux_Mo-sxaZWC9UPX2jcLwvkcYEFBaWXhzzPwxBIKVLFx7FXpd9YOMEwU5ozo5kDk41vJNvAJOv7kSgjj9u5iYLJCL0iD94X4sof1ths7NhLrT-k81PC6PE/s1600/Oregon_Giant_Snow_Peas.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 170px; height: 169px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_WgEuhIVDTlWuOuEr0icKIux_Mo-sxaZWC9UPX2jcLwvkcYEFBaWXhzzPwxBIKVLFx7FXpd9YOMEwU5ozo5kDk41vJNvAJOv7kSgjj9u5iYLJCL0iD94X4sof1ths7NhLrT-k81PC6PE/s200/Oregon_Giant_Snow_Peas.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5569105299945354466" border="0" /></a></span><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" >ded, sweet-berried<span style=""> </span>snow pea with possible extended harvests into July.<span style=""> </span>We will grow loads of Sn</span><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" >ap Peas and try these on for more variety.<span style=""> </span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" > </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" ><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" >Lemongr</span><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiitpZT7ARIEgEN4bZtCe-aYnKWtYGqTdqGVQy4tB8ochdhFqEWjvA7UElxAfAI3JDP7UR4dFjpKFitzg0qu-Z3VHc-_UuJz_ABEFSQ_H-2YLpdVMQ11_ZUenT4bGe3jF6CEbnpJ8IxxUI/s1600/220px-YosriNov04Pokok_Serai.JPG"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiitpZT7ARIEgEN4bZtCe-aYnKWtYGqTdqGVQy4tB8ochdhFqEWjvA7UElxAfAI3JDP7UR4dFjpKFitzg0qu-Z3VHc-_UuJz_ABEFSQ_H-2YLpdVMQ11_ZUenT4bGe3jF6CEbnpJ8IxxUI/s200/220px-YosriNov04Pokok_Serai.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5569104467479137842" border="0" /></a></span><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" >ass<br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" >Popular in Thai and Vietnamese cooking, Lemongrass adds an exquisite flavor to curries, soups and sauces as well fish and chicken dishes. It also makes a great hot or iced tea.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" > </span></p><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYMFzBYTQ6Ge51MIaXwr25bAJKwqX5b9MrDOd1x9xc27nSh7ErEC-CdDQ3pHrvWwgqPvHqW3NlPSfhb1dMtl_Az_k6vzuqf1u6b8A0516_VpgJCpwpndJEjm5ez81p5hFYecN-Eze_ezI/s1600/Musik+Garlic.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 182px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYMFzBYTQ6Ge51MIaXwr25bAJKwqX5b9MrDOd1x9xc27nSh7ErEC-CdDQ3pHrvWwgqPvHqW3NlPSfhb1dMtl_Az_k6vzuqf1u6b8A0516_VpgJCpwpndJEjm5ez81p5hFYecN-Eze_ezI/s200/Musik+Garlic.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5569103805637001378" border="0" /></a></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" ><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" >Music Garlic</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" >Music is large-cloved, porcelain hardneck garlic. Its flavor is very rich and musky, strong and robust and sticks around for a while.<span style=""> </span>Last <span style=""> </span>year we grew exclusively softneck varieties, trying not to venture too deep into the art of hardneck garlic culture.<span style=""> </span>They can be finicky and the process demanding, but the rewards, chefs attest, are worth the trouble.<span style=""> </span>Hardneck garlics, fresh or cured are truly an experience to be savored, as </span><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" >are the “scapes” or green tops that may be harvested in Spring…sautéed they are like garlicky asparagus.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Cochin;font-size:100%;" >I'll leave you with the Music growing in our field:</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYAA4U4yvvZl-ojVTSq_oMzTRO98N0fhviVs3tz8xSa3YbNeUAFQ2gg6YZvuWMEQ3DU9LTdpYbdCBhM6cXTeZ0Jz24cnr3DhPZxgiZ91Lbadbwg1635Oc9V4-y-WMBsPG5grkE03qDdkY/s1600/CIMG2799.JPG"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYAA4U4yvvZl-ojVTSq_oMzTRO98N0fhviVs3tz8xSa3YbNeUAFQ2gg6YZvuWMEQ3DU9LTdpYbdCBhM6cXTeZ0Jz24cnr3DhPZxgiZ91Lbadbwg1635Oc9V4-y-WMBsPG5grkE03qDdkY/s200/CIMG2799.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5569141306068234274" border="0" /></a></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style=""> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p>K. Isaac Oliverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05466803610949485306noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8839434946732444026.post-18100997032488033762011-01-11T06:24:00.000-08:002011-01-11T06:25:42.601-08:00Harmony Ridge Farms 2011 CSA Registration<style>@font-face { font-family: "Cambria"; }@font-face { font-family: "Cochin"; }p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal { margin: 0in 0in 10pt; font-size: 12pt; font-family: "Times New Roman"; }a:link, span.MsoHyperlink { color: blue; text-decoration: underline; }a:visited, span.MsoHyperlinkFollowed { color: purple; text-decoration: underline; }div.Section1 { page: Section1; }</style> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cochin;">It is my pleasure to announce open registration for Harmony Ridge Farms’ 2011 CSA program.<span style=""> </span>We are looking forward to a season of many harvests, many smiles and some (but not too many) surprises.<span style=""> </span>With a year’s experience under our belt, we feel better attuned to the needs and well-being of our crops, our clients and ourselves.<span style=""> </span>This year we will have a tractor, walk-in cooler, an additional acre+ cultivated space and, perhaps our most exciting addition, an intern! <span style=""> </span>He goes by Tyler, and I’m sure you’ll all be meeting him come Spring.<span style=""> </span>It has been a joy scouring the colorful seed catalogs and seeing in my mind’s eye the many beautiful plants that will bring our fields and bodies back to life.<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>We hope you’ll join us along our earthbound journey here in 2011. <span style=""> </span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cochin;">With more tillable land, additional hands and a bit more experience we are able to offer additional shares this year to interested families, couples or individuals.<span style=""> </span>We will limit the number of members, like last year, to ensure we can provide high quality product and service.<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cochin;">We are not offering half-shares this year, but we will carry over half shares from 2010.<span style=""> </span>We encourage you to ask a friend or family member to purchase a joint membership if need be.<span style=""> </span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cochin;">Your weekly produce shares will be customizable to the extent that you can request not to receive items you or your family will not eat. <span style=""> </span>We do not want to waste food that may be enjoyed by others.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cochin;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cochin;">Here are the benefits a subscriber can expect to enjoy:</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cochin;">• <span style=""> </span><b style="">Abundance.<span style=""> </span></b>A season full of fresh, naturally-grown and nutrient-rich vegetables and herbs grown by us for you. The season will run from early to mid-May to mid-September.<span style=""> </span>(We will start as early as Mother Nature will allow.)<span style=""> </span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cochin;"><br />• <b style="">Variety and Tradition</b>.<span style=""> </span>Vegetable varieties selected for flavor and delivered at the peak of freshness.<span style=""> </span>We grow many hard-to-find heirloom vegetables, and a full compliment of the traditional standbys.<span style=""> </span>We time our harvests to allow for the utmost variety on any given week, but do not skimp on the old favorites. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cochin;">• <b style="">Unparalleled freshness</b>.<span style=""> </span>Much of the produce is picked within a day of delivery.<span style=""> </span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cochin;">• <b style="">Weekly recipes</b>.<span style=""> </span>With each produce delivery you’ll find a set of recipes selected for their tried and true flavor, ease and for their inclusion of our vegetables.<span style=""> </span>Often the herb cuttings we provide are called for in the recipes.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cochin;"><br />• <b style="">Family involvement.</b><span style=""> </span>The opportunity to help out and learn basic skills on the farm (if so desired). </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cochin;"><br />• <b style="">Eco-Sound</b>.<span style=""> </span>A contribution to the local community and ecosystem by supporting a (near) carbon-neutral, low-waste and chemical-free food production system. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cochin;"><br />• <b style="">Proximity</b>. We are 3 miles Northwest of Winston-Salem, off Reynolda Rd. Scheduled visits are welcome.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cochin;"><br />• <b style="">Social opportunities</b>:<span style=""> </span>A Spring farm tour/barbeque, a Summer farm to table dinner at Willows Bistro and perhaps another event or two depending on time available.<span style=""> </span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cochin;">• <b style="">Participation.</b><span style=""> </span>Be a part of ever-evolving family enterprise.<span style=""> </span>We want you to feel a part of the farm and we believe our personalized service reflects this warmth and gratitude.<span style=""> </span>As we wish to evolve and continually enhance our CSA, we welcome your feedback and advice.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cochin;">• <b style="">Peace of mind</b>. Know your family’s vegetables are au natural and grown just down the road. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cochin;"><br />We have valued the above benefits at $675, to be paid upfront. (This works out to less than $34 per week at 20 weeks.) Payment received prior to the harvest season ensures your place as a member and ensures we have the resources we need to provide you with the most vibrant and varied produce possible. <span style=""> </span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><b style=""><span style="font-family: Cochin;">“Plus” Membership</span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cochin;">Harmony Ridge will also offer a ‘Plus’ program. ‘Plus’ members will receive all of the above listed benefits in addition to the following:<br /><br />• Locally sourced (really) free-range, vegetarian-fed eggs<br />• Locally sourced raw honey<br />• Locally sourced, seasonally available fruits and berries. All fruits will be as naturally grown as we can find.<br />• Potted herbs for trying on your greenthumbs at home.<br /><br />We have priced the “CSA Plus” at $895. The added cost of the “Plus” program figures in the cost of sourcing, including the time we spend picking fruit and traveling to acquire these goodies.<br /><br />To secure your place in our CSA please send a check payable to Harmony Ridge Farms, 3835 Bowens Rd., Tobaccoville, NC, 27050 ($675 for regular membership and $895 for a “plus” membership) by Tuesday, February 15th. <span style=""> </span>Please include also your contact information for our records.<span style=""> </span>You may direct any questions to me, Isaac, at 336.922.5611 or </span><a href="mailto:harmonyridgefarms@gmail.com"><span style="font-family: Cochin;">harmonyridgefarms@gmail.com</span></a><span style="font-family: Cochin;">. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cochin;">A few notes on CSA deliveries.<span style=""> </span>After much deliberation and consideration of your feedback, we’ve decided to stick to the schedule we followed last year.<span style=""> </span>Members may choose between one of four options:<span style=""> </span>1.)<span style=""> </span>Pick-up shares at the farm on Thursday evenings between 5 and 7:30, 2.) meet me at New Planet Yoga, Burke St.,West End Fridays between 10:30 and 11AM or 3.) meet me on the front porch of my parents’ house in the Greenbriar Farms Neighborhood at 3620 Rosebriar Circle, Winston-Salem, 27106 Fridays between 11:45 AM and 1:15PM or 4.) request home delivery at an additional charge of $165.<span style=""> </span>We ask that you choose one option and continue your schedule every week.<span style=""> </span>We can accommodate reschedules with sufficient notice.<span style=""> </span>I should explain to the folks requesting deliveries earlier in the week that it is quite difficult to source highly perishable items for the “plus” program more than once a week.<span style=""> </span>Also, bundling our deliveries around the same time of week ensures consistency in the quality, quantity and freshness of the produce as it is divvied out, as crop readiness can vary from day to day.<br /><br />Thank you all for your time and consideration. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cochin;"> </span></p>K. Isaac Oliverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05466803610949485306noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8839434946732444026.post-77943977553572245402010-09-17T14:21:00.000-07:002010-09-17T15:18:31.857-07:00August/September 2010 Newsletter<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDGml6-YZFoNGICavRj12vbvE7R1fakoi0KVf4tLvw5RcCmJeJQ-jsXCKaw99Nhu2Ypv0GTcSXIoTTt2ZB-udblrlZahtEgrFph7GeZJ0ZYKdEmVKdjrPN-rfRTsXgFaF2aawFroBLFbY/s1600/IMG_0012.JPG"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDGml6-YZFoNGICavRj12vbvE7R1fakoi0KVf4tLvw5RcCmJeJQ-jsXCKaw99Nhu2Ypv0GTcSXIoTTt2ZB-udblrlZahtEgrFph7GeZJ0ZYKdEmVKdjrPN-rfRTsXgFaF2aawFroBLFbY/s320/IMG_0012.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5518004309879909746" border="0" /></a><br /><style>@font-face { font-family: "Times New Roman"; }p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal { margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; font-size: 12pt; font-family: "Times New Roman"; }table.MsoNormalTable { font-size: 10pt; font-family: "Times New Roman"; }div.Section1 { page: Section1; }</style> <p class="MsoNormal"> The dog day doldrums are lifting and there are signs that time indeed passes.<span style=""> </span>No longer the ever-predictable, conk-you-in-the-mug sizzle of summer.<span style=""> </span>The morning glories invite the midday rays that a week ago would have shriveled its silken cups.<span style=""> </span>The patch of sungolds, given the chance to hold their blooms by the cooler night air, come alive like a hundred little suns switched back on.<span style=""> </span>The first yellowing poplar and the red tips lining the understory of a barnside maple tell of a fairer fall all too near. The morning and evening skies are given depth by the darkening of the blue hues and we know there is much gathering to be done and, yes, seeds yet to s<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhyphenhypheny9eXK_emx23lxwkmtG_2MY4tgymmnXrVRzLu6bzloLuMkfKeGsWSA6ipFaY92B88gRFEDv8WGTAZbiOXuWnIIDlycySrViRlAAxDDIFSORh_BEYOLfMN0SB0YuM501dA5SM7uYyWGU/s1600/IMG_9995.JPG"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhyphenhypheny9eXK_emx23lxwkmtG_2MY4tgymmnXrVRzLu6bzloLuMkfKeGsWSA6ipFaY92B88gRFEDv8WGTAZbiOXuWnIIDlycySrViRlAAxDDIFSORh_BEYOLfMN0SB0YuM501dA5SM7uYyWGU/s320/IMG_9995.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5518004719590262274" border="0" /></a>ow.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /><span style=""> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal"> The withered squash vines are stripped clean of their impossibly beautiful ornaments.<span style=""> </span>The strange armored bugs that cling to them like members of some medieval butternut cult are swept off their buff skins and stomped in vain attempt to prevent their procreation.<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>The pepper plants, many sprawled out over the ground from the weight of their prodigious growth, will be plucked of their peppers and eaten, sold or canned.<span style=""> </span>Early fall tomatoes will see the same fate, their vines removed and destroyed to check disease.<span style=""> </span>Basil will be gathered until the kitchen drips with sweet, pungeant perfume and pesto will join blueberries, tomato puree and peppers in the freezer.<span style=""> </span>Melon vines, eggplants, legumes and other annual crops will succumb to the mower and the tines, and will return to the soil to feed the organisms that allowed them to grow and bear.<span style=""> </span>Come early October, excepting those sections designated for the fall garden, summer growth will be cleared and tilled to make way for all-important winter rye.<span style=""> </span>The rye will quickly establish itself in the cooler weather, growing alongside volunteer vetch, holding the topsoil through winter’s rains and come Spring its powerful roots will crowd out weeds and aerate the soil until its tops are mowed and integrated as green manure for next year’s bounty. <span style=""> </span>The fall garden will also be “ryed” but not until late winter, and won’t be planted in vegetables until summer, if not left fallow.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">As I write in mid-September the fall and summer garden harvest begins to overlap.<span style=""> </span>The earliest greens of fall, arugula are approaching maturity, and in full form - free of flea beetles and their taste for spicy Spring greens.<span style=""> </span>Radishes will be plucked alongside with the potential for some lively salads, something we’ve missed around here.<span style=""> </span>(We made some attempts at growing Summer lettuces, with some limited success growing Jericho Romaine, but, well, the dry heat prevailed.)<span style=""> </span>Surely it won’t be so hot and dry next year.<span style=""> </span>Farmers.<span style=""> </span>Always the eternal optimists…and surely I don’t speak too facetiously.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">We’ve been graced with visitors human and animal this August and early September.<span style=""> </span>Let me begin with our feathered friends.<span style=""> </span>Beginning late July we heard the unmistakable sound of bobwhite quail calling nearby.<span style=""> </span>Their calls have continued and remain very close, localized to an area on or near Harmony Ridge.<span style=""> </span>Our neighbor says he hasn’t heard quail around Bowens Road in some twenty years.<span style=""> </span>Their decline in the piedmont has been alarmingly precipitous.<span style=""> </span>Their presence indicates a healthy diversity of flora and habitat necessary to support their survival.<span style=""> </span>Their decline is not surprising considering the widespread use of herbicides and the perpetual mowing of any land not in crop or woods.<span style=""> </span>Quail need a combination of<span style=""> </span>woodlands, brush, grass and croplands.<span style=""> </span>They like the in-between places:<span style=""> </span>fencerows and the brushy sumac and briar stands at the edge of forests.<span style=""> </span>They particularly enjoy seeds, produced in great numbers by sheltering weeds.<span style=""> </span>Anyone that has visited our farm since July knows quail will feel right at home here.<span style=""> </span>I’m also encouraged to find out that quail will spend around 75 percent of their lives within a ½ mile foraging range.<span style=""> </span>This means the covey that we’ve so enjoyed hearing could call Harmony Ridge (and its unkempt beauty) home.<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal"> As for those visitors of the human persuasion, we’ve had quite a few of late, some of them quite helpful.<span style=""> </span>In early August, CSA members Keith and Rebecca Ammons brought their nieces (in town from Wisconsin) to help with farm chores.<span style=""> </span>We were able to clear an overgrown vegetable bed that is now supporting beet, carrot and arugula.<span style=""> </span>A few weeks later I got an e-mail from a guy, like me, having two first names, Grant and Doug.<span style=""> </span>Turns out he just moved to the area and wants to spend time helping at the farm.<span style=""> </span>I say O.K! On labor day, a group of special needs folks visited and helped harvest.<span style=""> </span>It was a truly wonderful experience for (I hope) all in attendance. An especially enthusiastic member of the crew, Jeremy, showed up clad in John Deere gear ready to jump on our loaner tractor and till up the bottomland.<span style=""> </span>I would like to thank Christina of Dragonfly Farms for coordinating their visit, as I’m sure it won’t be the last.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal"> Let me sp<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilkzIawIiRStDXj5qq54FcNUvU48Pqjn73XezyX1yt2uqKUqiZa3jVgI76WC4quMjfZSKt8xgcgAplYPODgySCEaYQuMZcv3Z0vn7k3Brntziaq9y8rVG_NjavnCQ9xNjUyPdE1VLJ9fA/s1600/June+2010+beet.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 162px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilkzIawIiRStDXj5qq54FcNUvU48Pqjn73XezyX1yt2uqKUqiZa3jVgI76WC4quMjfZSKt8xgcgAplYPODgySCEaYQuMZcv3Z0vn7k3Brntziaq9y8rVG_NjavnCQ9xNjUyPdE1VLJ9fA/s320/June+2010+beet.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5518008393432882466" border="0" /></a>eak just a bit more about our fall garden.<span style=""> </span>We left part of our main plot on the hill fallow this summer, finally tilling the rye in early August – by this point a tangled stubble.<span style=""> </span>We were pleased and somewhat surprised at the degree to which the soil beneath had responded to our cover cropping and fall greensand treatment.<span style=""> </span>What was last August near-hardpan clay, is now a red loam, still in need of additional organic matter, but certainly quite workable.<span style=""> </span>So we’ve planted it in fall crop:<span style=""> </span>broccoli, green and red cabbage, kale, beets, onion, carrots, radishes, arugula, spinach, tatsoi, mustard greens, collards and turnips. And soon Chinese cabbage, lettuces and bok choi will be ready for transplanting.<span style=""> </span>I plan on offering fall produce at the downtown Krankies market on Tuesdays.<span style=""> </span>Although, if I had enough interest from customers wanting to purchase produce on-farm, I may just open up shop at Harmony Ridge…I will keep you posted on our plans for fall.<span style=""> </span>Perhaps a Saturday morning farmstand?<span style=""> </span>I should mention also that our last week for CSA shares is fast approaching:<span style=""> </span>we will wrap up our 2010 CSA season Friday, October 1<sup>st</sup>.<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal"> We’ve mixed things up of late, harvesting some different legumes:<span style=""> </span>crowder peas (close relative to the black-eyed pea) and limas.<span style=""> </span>We hope you’ve enjoyed them, particularly the limas, as they require a good four hours of three pairs of hands picking.<span style=""> </span>If our next batch is able to mature in the (somewhat) cooler weather, we will be able to offer more…by request this time.<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal"> CSA plus members will be receiving organic apples this week:<span style=""> </span>a mixed bag of just-picked Jonagold, Crispin, Red and Green Delicious and Winesaps from Fairview, NC.<span style=""> </span>For those interested in purchasing extra, they are $2 a Lb.<span style=""> </span>(Limited quantities available.)<span style=""> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal">They are not unblemished, but are certainly not lacking for flavor.<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal"> One of this week’s spotlighted vegetables was okra.<span style=""> </span>Turns out we ran a little short to provide okra to everyone this week.<span style=""> </span>Those not receiving it should expect to see those lovable “ladies fingers” in next week’s share box.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /><span style=""> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal"> A couple more CSA announcements…if you want extra sweet or hot peppers for cooking, freezing, drying, canning, or stacking into pepper towers please let me know.<span style=""> </span>There is also a load of basil.<span style=""> </span>If you’d like enough for pesto this upcoming week just say the word.<span style=""> </span>And speaking of basil, we will be processing another batch of holy basil tea.<span style=""> </span>If you tried it and liked it and want more I can include a more generous amount in this week’s box.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /><span style=""> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Lastly, an announcement to all CSA members and “civilians at-large”: I will be e-mailing a weekly “menu” for produce available for purchase on-farm.<span style=""> </span>The menu will be sent out Fridays for pick-up Saturday at a time TBA.<span style=""> </span>If you wish to receive a weekly menu, please let me know.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Thank you all again for your unwavering support and have a splendid weekend.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">-K. Isaac Oliver</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr7JIzpzfDirYlnS1CFxVB9_3RSX2lQfYMs6f5yU6Uu2nUsZyCTy9790nzAxxhOa0Yb8zEoA3D1Zag2kIcvrteH5bvZfWgm-_KvgJ4Zf_C2DFRmlldBscY-fYU7bN_d8Q4qyHzLJUDzIw/s1600/IMG_0016.JPG"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr7JIzpzfDirYlnS1CFxVB9_3RSX2lQfYMs6f5yU6Uu2nUsZyCTy9790nzAxxhOa0Yb8zEoA3D1Zag2kIcvrteH5bvZfWgm-_KvgJ4Zf_C2DFRmlldBscY-fYU7bN_d8Q4qyHzLJUDzIw/s320/IMG_0016.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5518009483963823266" border="0" /></a></p><p class="MsoNormal"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcKj14oVXNxb4HKHOTpHFdBVFfWjbgpfpuR14saQIgvpZxCsyw3HPcc2XNc1O5XDw-s0pCbSChguaXyVCag0YIbRNbtuWZCML1gkSMK8YpuFPusRHm3gigasdV5kqTSOg0_UVG5jSzmEs/s1600/harmony+farms.JPG"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcKj14oVXNxb4HKHOTpHFdBVFfWjbgpfpuR14saQIgvpZxCsyw3HPcc2XNc1O5XDw-s0pCbSChguaXyVCag0YIbRNbtuWZCML1gkSMK8YpuFPusRHm3gigasdV5kqTSOg0_UVG5jSzmEs/s320/harmony+farms.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5518005337561214434" border="0" /></a></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">An early September CSA share / The Ammons family and I.<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"></p><p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><br /><span style=""> </span></p>K. Isaac Oliverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05466803610949485306noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8839434946732444026.post-77824196368298942842010-08-07T15:58:00.000-07:002010-08-07T18:44:44.811-07:00Newsletter #5: June/July 2010<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <o:documentproperties> <o:template>Normal</o:Template> <o:revision>0</o:Revision> <o:totaltime>0</o:TotalTime> <o:pages>1</o:Pages> <o:words>811</o:Words> <o:characters>4626</o:Characters> <o:lines>38</o:Lines> <o:paragraphs>9</o:Paragraphs> <o:characterswithspaces>5681</o:CharactersWithSpaces> <o:version>11.1287</o:Version> </o:DocumentProperties> <o:officedocumentsettings> <o:allowpng/> </o:OfficeDocumentSettings> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:donotshowrevisions/> <w:donotprintrevisions/> <w:displayhorizontaldrawinggridevery>0</w:DisplayHorizontalDrawingGridEvery> <w:displayverticaldrawinggridevery>0</w:DisplayVerticalDrawingGridEvery> <w:usemarginsfordrawinggridorigin/> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--> <style> <!-- /* Font Definitions */ @font-face {font-family:"Times New Roman"; panose-1:0 2 2 6 3 5 4 5 2 3; mso-font-charset:0; mso-generic-font-family:auto; mso-font-pitch:variable; mso-font-signature:50331648 0 0 0 1 0;} /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-parent:""; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman";} table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-parent:""; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman";} @page Section1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.Section1 {page:Section1;} --> </style> <!--StartFragment--> <p class="MsoNormal"> I hope you all are enjoying the fruits of our la<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFD_Zwdko3AryPAQYT020sN2xnjANYeRRNpz7QZhe0rocPwdv9sg_9SMp6bHaCyUJtsP-Mrr4OVGPeTQs82bcTp-G8YCBTrc7BX__59lGvnPGO7tWe0arh_It0XkMAAi6LTKUUWx3RnhA/s1600/IMG_9952.JPG"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFD_Zwdko3AryPAQYT020sN2xnjANYeRRNpz7QZhe0rocPwdv9sg_9SMp6bHaCyUJtsP-Mrr4OVGPeTQs82bcTp-G8YCBTrc7BX__59lGvnPGO7tWe0arh_It0XkMAAi6LTKUUWx3RnhA/s320/IMG_9952.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5502828956044592514" border="0" /></a>bor. We certainly are...almost every night we plan our meals around what's been harvested that day. To be reinvigorated and sustained by the very thing that exhausted you in its creation is somehow incredibly gratifying. Tonight it was a creamy raw zucchini pasta on greens, German Butterball hash, and buttery sweet corn. The mandolined zucchini made a surprisingly full-bodied linguine, the butterballs an almost delicate hash and the corn, well, there's nothing like fresh sweet corn. Yesterday we sampled the butternuts harvested early in July, stuffed with goat's cheese, walnut and carmelized onion. It was quite good, but I'm going to let them cure just a bit longer before passing them (and acorn squash) on to you all.<br /><br />I believe, especially considering the intense heat and June drought, that the summer harvest has been plentiful. Let's just say drip irrigation saved our collective behinds. (I've pictured here items included in a sample "plus" option mid-July box: zucchini and crookneck squash, heirloom and assorted cherry tomatoes, Jericho romaine lettuce, basil, garlic, charleston bell pepper, chili pepper, hungarian hot wax pepper, diva cucumber, along with organic figs and bread sourced locally. Jun<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC-gDYofGh-EMWDRM-40QsrKHK52QvggVbiWUzX0H6aC7_vZoGjbL1tZGWhhpyBPnRyOUe6N_uoOMPAUeWCaKKtoUhaYJUToFqFBahd3_V8-5TJi_NTr1C6bItxXgRfrjzf3_LbvlhOUw/s1600/IMG_9965.JPG"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC-gDYofGh-EMWDRM-40QsrKHK52QvggVbiWUzX0H6aC7_vZoGjbL1tZGWhhpyBPnRyOUe6N_uoOMPAUeWCaKKtoUhaYJUToFqFBahd3_V8-5TJi_NTr1C6bItxXgRfrjzf3_LbvlhOUw/s320/IMG_9965.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5502825895648405890" border="0" /></a>e brought two of my favorite bed buddies into the light, garlic and potatoes, and we continue to pull them from our "root cellar" supply. This week's fingerlings ought to please the most discriminating of potato palates. We've been pleased as well with corn production of late - surpassing our early yields - and expect to harvest it through the month of August. The next round of corn is around 10 ft. tall...we can only hope it bears ears to match.<br /><br />To address the overflow of tomatoes (and lettuce before that) Holly and I have been attending the Krankies Farmer's Market downtown. It's been a gratifying experience and a terrific way to interface with other farmers and the community. We have not been in a couple weeks and it looks as though we won't be returning until possibly fall. Our harvest, while ample, is not so much to justify our presence there for the next couple months...more importantly, we would never risk shortchanging our CSA members by selling an excess of produce. The amount we've brought to market has been carefully calculated so as to avoid overselling. I mention this because some farm CSAs have been accused of doing this to make a few extra bucks, and I wish to be steadfast in our commitment to our shareholders. We've thoroughly enjoyed serving you all (so far) and I hope you all have relished the experience as well. It is truly an amazing feeling to do what you love and have a community at your back, particularly one benefitting directly, and on such a basic level. I can hardly begin to count my thank-you's to you all for helping our family build something so important to us...</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"> Before I get trapped in the sap, I would like to discuss some cultural adjustments I'd like to make for next year's main season. First off, tomatoes. We'd like to provide them June through September, and while we will continue to include them in our shares this season, production has been tapering off. We've provided around 3 Lbs plus cherries every week since mid-June. This will drop off steadily until our late-planted tomatoes produce in earnest. Next year we will better space the plantings to better ensure a plentiful supply through the end of the summer. We will also plant more root crops and succession plant them to extend and (hopefully) increase our harvest of carrots, beets, potatoes, onions and garlic. Most of these have gone directly from the ground to your shareboxes, with smaller amounts going to storage. While I'm sure you all have tasted and appreciated the wonderful richness that is a new potato or onion, it's nice to save a bunch to divy out as time passes. As for beets, I don't necessarily plan to store them (though I do appreciate a good pickled ginger beet), but I would like to have plenty of them come June and July of '11.<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"> I should talk a bit about peppers. First off, we will grow a different variety of main-crop bell pepper next year. The mini-belles you've received are California Wonders - we've wondered why they're not larger. While they're extremely prolific, they've also been strangely small...I believe we received the wrong seed. (It couldn't be our fault.) Thankfully we grew other varieties, and of all the sweets, the Flamingos have greatly outperformed the other varieties. (They're the pale yellow to orange variety in the boxes this week.) As for hot peppers, they're ridiculously productive, as usual. We mixed hungarian wax (pale yellow/orange), jalapeno (smaller green or red) and chilipeno peppers in the boxes this week with a recipe for stuffing them, although there are many ways to prepare them. (Thanks, Nancy, for the sample jar of hot pepper jam - superb.)<br />Another item you all have received lately are royal burgundy beans. They're to be treated like green beans, though I find the flavor somehow better - maybe it's a trick played by the novelty of them. Your kids will marvel at how they turn from purple to green on the skillet. I'm interested to hear any ideas on preparing them, as we've not had time to experiment much since harvesting. I find garlic and butter go well with most anything!</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"> This morning we harvested watermelons and cantaloupes. It turned out quite a few watermelons were hiding amidst the vines, and we pulled more than expected. We will be passing on some of these modest melons on to you all this week. As for the cantaloupes, let's just say we swallowed the evidence. There will be more ripening in a few weeks or so, hopefully they will resist rot better than those we fished out of the straw this morning.</p><p class="MsoNormal"> So a couple of reminders...please try and return all used containers (clamshells, egg cartons, etc.). Please let me know if you need particular herbs for your boxes as I will be happy to provide them. Right now we have genovese, thai and red basil, oregano, rosemary, thyme, dill, mint, lemon balm, sage and chives. Also, we will be drying some batches of tulsi (or holy basil) tea. We've grown quite a bit of it to dry for the tea we drink daily. It has many health benefits, lowering blood pressure and regulating metabolism. I will be happy to provide a sample to anyone requesting it. </p><p class="MsoNormal"> Once thank you all for your continued support. Farewell and goodnight.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">-K. Isaac Oliver</p><p class="MsoNormal">I leave you with a few photos.<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggAG9_TBgRPLNek35Y4AsotL4g_YxmwBj4fxNYlTj1o3RThEB_KnmcUcZWvztKIBVgEYfSMi40Imi-L_bApXBytmzqZZ9IWqCYhSaaItxup0JBfpyJbj9ZmDR4ENmSUPrr9lAMwK6NOOc/s1600/IMG_9968.JPG"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggAG9_TBgRPLNek35Y4AsotL4g_YxmwBj4fxNYlTj1o3RThEB_KnmcUcZWvztKIBVgEYfSMi40Imi-L_bApXBytmzqZZ9IWqCYhSaaItxup0JBfpyJbj9ZmDR4ENmSUPrr9lAMwK6NOOc/s320/IMG_9968.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5502828505963627954" border="0" /></a></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0AIVAogqk-W_DvxT38o4lFKERl-6j5_3XOANFiS56sMhTPrrr7o4RTUvngbhk6gDhmsLbfua3-Qxe2WoVzx9_QPvkTkY5ko8mts7RAOhL4tTc0A3BsFP7M_AxgV6Ojhgq36G6RSg5EFY/s1600/cosmos.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0AIVAogqk-W_DvxT38o4lFKERl-6j5_3XOANFiS56sMhTPrrr7o4RTUvngbhk6gDhmsLbfua3-Qxe2WoVzx9_QPvkTkY5ko8mts7RAOhL4tTc0A3BsFP7M_AxgV6Ojhgq36G6RSg5EFY/s320/cosmos.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5502842816517453938" border="0" /></a></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaMdE-AVbwqtdJtpGJwddkKevgKmGlDTrICPzlwa5JAL7TFmbSDd-2wOR71LQHj52MDkeLoW9d5PnfpX98d_hGXJTCFMSA-IZO8zIA0cS05C9OQN4ecsWsrS6T8SgeCgvai92uXbay_0M/s1600/clover.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaMdE-AVbwqtdJtpGJwddkKevgKmGlDTrICPzlwa5JAL7TFmbSDd-2wOR71LQHj52MDkeLoW9d5PnfpX98d_hGXJTCFMSA-IZO8zIA0cS05C9OQN4ecsWsrS6T8SgeCgvai92uXbay_0M/s320/clover.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5502843213780176034" border="0" /></a></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg8Wv0_5XbqciHZmqo6dE-apcikP_O8Iqy3MkO3O5uRwmzEjOAIk92Pc2-kcpUb3ub94T_criEjBudi_A1_vvYtPdI025izk9cBBl2NRNYuryy76xrPcUHP0sJONAFACaknmXThPj6IOc/s1600/monarch+and+vetch.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 266px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg8Wv0_5XbqciHZmqo6dE-apcikP_O8Iqy3MkO3O5uRwmzEjOAIk92Pc2-kcpUb3ub94T_criEjBudi_A1_vvYtPdI025izk9cBBl2NRNYuryy76xrPcUHP0sJONAFACaknmXThPj6IOc/s320/monarch+and+vetch.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5502844703852740210" border="0" /></a></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p>(1) Red Rubin Basil<br />(2) Cosmos<br />(3) Clover. One of the many weeds calling our garden home.<br />(4) Hairy Vetch and a Monarch.<br /><br /><!--EndFragment-->K. Isaac Oliverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05466803610949485306noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8839434946732444026.post-789094699089244052010-05-18T12:16:00.001-07:002010-05-18T13:13:47.057-07:00Newsletter #4: May 2010<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL0H6S4kRiYo4-st3cf0OIzwYUlLe5aFXCVOFvcwPTewLrh9GDMoOB04UfBvaVxC-QE-rrrAJ2W8RBIQB1DkjpbcL-8RcjdoJcKmBdLLHqYxnMqcY-itS3QHv2XdUFxdVbsmlLJR_oDI4/s1600/CIMG2594.JPG"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL0H6S4kRiYo4-st3cf0OIzwYUlLe5aFXCVOFvcwPTewLrh9GDMoOB04UfBvaVxC-QE-rrrAJ2W8RBIQB1DkjpbcL-8RcjdoJcKmBdLLHqYxnMqcY-itS3QHv2XdUFxdVbsmlLJR_oDI4/s320/CIMG2594.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5472699087094242210" border="0" /></a><br /> <!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <o:documentproperties> <o:template>Normal</o:Template> <o:revision>0</o:Revision> <o:totaltime>0</o:TotalTime> <o:pages>1</o:Pages> <o:words>1206</o:Words> <o:characters>6878</o:Characters> <o:lines>57</o:Lines> <o:paragraphs>13</o:Paragraphs> <o:characterswithspaces>8446</o:CharactersWithSpaces> <o:version>11.1287</o:Version> </o:DocumentProperties> <o:officedocumentsettings> <o:allowpng/> </o:OfficeDocumentSettings> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:donotshowrevisions/> <w:donotprintrevisions/> <w:displayhorizontaldrawinggridevery>0</w:DisplayHorizontalDrawingGridEvery> <w:displayverticaldrawinggridevery>0</w:DisplayVerticalDrawingGridEvery> <w:usemarginsfordrawinggridorigin/> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--> <style> <!-- /* Font Definitions */ @font-face {font-family:"Times New Roman"; panose-1:0 2 2 6 3 5 4 5 2 3; mso-font-charset:0; mso-generic-font-family:auto; mso-font-pitch:variable; mso-font-signature:50331648 0 0 0 1 0;} /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-parent:""; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman";} table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-parent:""; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman";} @page Section1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.Section1 {page:Section1;} --> </style> <!--StartFragment--> <p class="MsoNormal">What could a farmer relish more than a string of rainy days, for his vines to swell, his gait to soften and his mind to wander, burying the debris of to-dos in the bliss of blankets and<span style=""> </span>blankness.<span style=""> </span>It is one of the great pleasures of farming to take a respite when Nature suggests it prudent.<span style=""> </span>And rest has never felt so prudent.<span style=""> </span>It is easy to live inside a to-do list, to order your existence around an illusion of tidy efficiency.<span style=""> </span>It is one thing to continually “achieve” completion but quite another to achieve the clarity of knowing nothing is complete and to be O.K. with imperfection.<span style=""> </span>It is enough to know that if you act according to your truth, your every action is complete.<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Organic farming challenges any illusion of stasis in life.<span style=""> </span>Change reigns supreme…you ride the wave or get swept out by the tide.<span style=""> </span>Tidy as you may try to be, growth will continue, and growth can hurt, like weeding a hundred-foot row of onions.<span style=""> </span>Weeds are like emotions – kill them off in one fell swoop (with, say, Roundup) and those that survive will regenerate into uber-weeds, peskier than ever.<span style=""> </span>Bury an unwanted emotion or trauma, and the hurt becomes a complex of hurt, increasingly more potent.<span style=""> </span>Somehow hand-weeding is more like “dealing” or “talking it out”.<span style=""> </span>Satisfying?<span style=""> </span>Not necessarily.<span style=""> </span>But it sure is easier to sift and manage the buggers before they spread unchecked.<span style=""> </span>I think you catch my drift.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Besides weeding and psychobabbling, we are still planting.<span style=""> </span>Some crops are best succession planted so the harvest is spread out.<span style=""> </span>Its better having just enough sweet corn to eat (or to sell) for a month than to have a lot all at once, so we are trying to extend our projected harvests of most crops to achieve a sort of drawn-out smorgasbord.<span style=""> </span>In addition to planting, we are considering trellising the many green trails leading every which way.<span style=""> </span>I say considering because there is a long way to go in this department.<span style=""> </span>Tomatoes, Pole Beans and Cucumbers are the first to come to mind…they grow best upright.<span style=""> </span>And if there<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSoWPaEij93wI-4mptN7fERyzyLWtipwuWgIOSXNqNwwf6uDKypVDklPgKjlyh0GndC9ifHspnMlyvQ2E0t_dcDzVcacrQc5XYQNh7WeYx3Xd6ObwSNC5FbwuCWTN6ZknqnEZv157C98I/s1600/CIMG2621.JPG"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSoWPaEij93wI-4mptN7fERyzyLWtipwuWgIOSXNqNwwf6uDKypVDklPgKjlyh0GndC9ifHspnMlyvQ2E0t_dcDzVcacrQc5XYQNh7WeYx3Xd6ObwSNC5FbwuCWTN6ZknqnEZv157C98I/s320/CIMG2621.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5472701873276036722" border="0" /></a> any hope of winning the battle of the weeds, much straw will be spread.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /><span style=""> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Early heat and the miracle of drip irrigation, mixed with a bit of sweat on the brow and eventual rain has brought on a flush of growth:<span style=""> </span>sugar snap peas and sugar beets are ripe and sweet fennel is near.<span style=""> </span>Potatoes and garlic are blooming, meaning June harvests a possibility.<span style=""> </span>We began eating cherry tomatoes here and there last week, though we don’t expect to get a proper harvest until it heats up once again.<span style=""> </span>All you CSA members can expect more lettuce for as long as we can fend off the hot, hot weather and broccoli for at least anothe<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIWxS5x5G7nEVphr-iE_WIylxchLpu5yvpJbLTXRxUK9TJFgSH1upGdbpChN1qI-YYmTZ2PvjYGFU1jzXwCr6c7kyrxnV_ObaGprbyN6s1sVdUMQu_fir064HoDjqQtgyCfogRqYZhd-U/s1600/CIMG2590.JPG"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIWxS5x5G7nEVphr-iE_WIylxchLpu5yvpJbLTXRxUK9TJFgSH1upGdbpChN1qI-YYmTZ2PvjYGFU1jzXwCr6c7kyrxnV_ObaGprbyN6s1sVdUMQu_fir064HoDjqQtgyCfogRqYZhd-U/s320/CIMG2590.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5472700357225675778" border="0" /></a>r week (to be followed by cabbages).<span style=""> </span>I hope all you “Plus” members enjoyed the all-natural strawberries provided by Ken Vanhoy of Rail Fence Farm in Kernersville.<span style=""> </span>They were perhaps the finest I’ve tasted.<span style=""> </span>The eggs are compliments of Christina Nazarro of Dragonfly Farm in Pfafftown and Donna Dunlap of Pinnacle.<span style=""> </span>The eggs will be mainstays of the “Plus” program.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">I’m sure some of you are wondering why some of the lettuce and broccoli you have been receiving are not like your standard grocery fare.<span style=""> </span>Commercially grown vegetables are typically varieties bred for two characteristics:<span style=""> </span>shelf life and uniformity of appearance.<span style=""> </span>These characteristics come at the expense of taste and character.<span style=""> </span>The lettuces you have been eating are rarely found in markets because they are tender:<span style=""> </span>they wilt and thus quickly shed the illusion of freshness.<span style=""> </span>(Grocery chains are not so much interested in freshness but the appearance of it.)<span style=""> </span>The same goes for broccoli.<span style=""> </span>You all have been receiving (mainly) heirloom, or open-pollinated varieties that have not been hybridized for shelf-life or uniformity. Heirloom broccoli can grow limp quickly, as it is meant to be eaten right out of the garden.<span style=""> </span>Tenderness is a quality in vegetables, like meat, that lends itself to palatability and downright tastiness.<span style=""> </span>Essentially the flavor has been bred out of so many commercial vegetables.<span style=""> </span>Perhaps that is why a child that won't eat salads will change their mind after eating delicate Bibb Buttercrunch or rosy Rouge D’hiver.<span style=""> </span>(Such was the case with a certain CSA member.)</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /><span style=""> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Heirloom plants are those whose characteristics have not been hybridized over time; the seeds have been harvested and handed down over generations, so that when they are planted they are true-to-type.<span style=""> </span>Preserving this tradition helps preserve the diversity of edibles that have colored our culinary and cultural history.<span style=""> </span>Many of the crops we grow at Harmony Ridge are raised from heirloom seed stock.<span style=""> </span>This is why our vegetables have character.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">I’ve been pleased with the ease with which the CSA deliveries have been conducted thus far.<span style=""> </span>I would like to thank you all for being as prompt as possible.<span style=""> </span>I have been quite lenient in these first two weeks as far as providing special arrangements for thos<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1qFawVjbDlu0uz9I0ZryQsy6MLm3Ntuew_Y8AGiXSToGX9UCkMNGnmSqOfDgpQ4GzQYdc-68gwln9EPVWExyDt-FC0I-CnGHX1hCSjclzqeEMAfj1ddN8zrznd7FhmYscGXWJH_-g-NU/s1600/CIMG2579.JPG"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1qFawVjbDlu0uz9I0ZryQsy6MLm3Ntuew_Y8AGiXSToGX9UCkMNGnmSqOfDgpQ4GzQYdc-68gwln9EPVWExyDt-FC0I-CnGHX1hCSjclzqeEMAfj1ddN8zrznd7FhmYscGXWJH_-g-NU/s320/CIMG2579.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5472699256393489874" border="0" /></a>e unable to attend the designated delivery times.<span style=""> </span>However, I cannot guarantee that this will always be the case due to time limitations.<span style=""> </span>If you are unable to attend, please have a friend pick up your basket for you.<span style=""> </span>However, I am a reasonable man, and sometimes a back-up plan is necessary.<span style=""> </span>Any baskets that go unaccounted for I will leave on the front porch of our barn inside a cooler through the weekend.<span style=""> </span>Those that go unclaimed will be donated to my kitchen.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">A few other things swimming around my head…recipes are meant to be kept.<span style=""> </span>You may either leave the plastic attached to the basket to be reused or keep it – it’s up to you.<span style=""> </span>Any containers, particularly berry quart boxes or egg cartons may be left inside the previous week’s basket to be reused.<span style=""> </span>The lettuce, as you may know will keep outside the fridge as long as the root ball remains moist.<span style=""> </span>It will keep in the fridge just as well.<span style=""> </span>If the leaves are removed from the plant, they may be preserved per the instructions for storing greens provided by my mom, Wendy.<span style=""> </span>I hope you all have been enjoying her recipes.<span style=""> </span>I would like to thank her for all the hard work she’s put into providing these and for making each week’s delivery less like a plain, old crate of vegetables and more like a neatly wrapped present.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Which leads me to an outpouring of gratitude.<span style=""> </span>There are some family members whose gracious help has egregiously gone unmentioned.<span style=""> </span>My Dad, Kevin, and grandfather, Dale, are the foremost in my mind, as they have given much time and effort not only to help out with the many farm chores but to help shape the man I am.<span style=""> </span>As many of you know, my Dad works full-time in a high-stress position and still manages to be here almost every day putting in his very best.<span style=""> </span>Dale and my grandma Betty helped shape my desire to live an honest life on a farm as I spent many-a-summer on their small farm in Ohio as a youth.<span style=""> </span>At almost 80 years old, Dale has a work ethic like no one I know:<span style=""> </span>when he visits, I can scarce keep up with <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAAxtjhjgKodcuw5XF9PWYBVvhqWTobn4B5xUTUzgyzRUnqC_F2UegHme1Wg2eu36ZWnYORJleWExv9OOy8P5FIdDbpcDtBYJpl9NwCoY9E236dpMryLbngeQkoLvNdZsFy62r5R3rtiQ/s1600/CIMG2602.JPG"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAAxtjhjgKodcuw5XF9PWYBVvhqWTobn4B5xUTUzgyzRUnqC_F2UegHme1Wg2eu36ZWnYORJleWExv9OOy8P5FIdDbpcDtBYJpl9NwCoY9E236dpMryLbngeQkoLvNdZsFy62r5R3rtiQ/s320/CIMG2602.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5472702929121918002" border="0" /></a>him.<span style=""> </span>Much of the wood we have stockpiled for next winter was cut by him (and my Dad).<span style=""> </span>I would also like to thank my “Uncle”<span style=""> </span>Phil of PA.<span style=""> </span>He handled our BCS walk-behind tractor like a champ.<span style=""> </span>Thanks also to Mark O’Neil, a good friend of the family from St. Louis.<span style=""> </span>He helped me accomplish in a couple hours what would have taken me an entir<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcPrDo-jhcTOBEppiq58LcS8faXEHStgF7PQRmxtxCX3cqGVCgmbP0gtZH_OV-ZhrzqklZmFRk5mfUVrG86hv7UGJxveW9LIlXYVeSX_ehs57qUnpwKZj55oZJexlGRnHSXusvNVd0rrI/s1600/CIMG2596.JPG"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcPrDo-jhcTOBEppiq58LcS8faXEHStgF7PQRmxtxCX3cqGVCgmbP0gtZH_OV-ZhrzqklZmFRk5mfUVrG86hv7UGJxveW9LIlXYVeSX_ehs57qUnpwKZj55oZJexlGRnHSXusvNVd0rrI/s320/CIMG2596.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5472699680915934050" border="0" /></a>e day. Thanks also to my wife, Holly, who has provided much needed moral support.<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">I look forward to seeing you all later this week for our third round of CSA deliveries.<span style=""> </span>As indicated, you all can expect a little more variety this week:<span style=""> </span>beets and sugar snap peas in addition to broccoli, herbs, spring onions and lettuces.<span style=""> </span>To recap our revised weekly delivery schedule:</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Thursday, on-farm, between 5 and 7 PM.<span style=""> </span>3835 Bowens Rd., Tobaccoville, 27050.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Fridays at New Planet Yoga between 10:30 and 11 AM</p> <p class="MsoNormal">And then at my parents’ house between 11:45 AM and 1:15 PM.<span style=""> </span>If any of you need to change your usual pick-up locale please let me know.<span style=""> </span>Once again, I ask you to please stick to a weekly routine so your share winds up in the right place.<span style=""> </span>Oh, and don’t forget to bring last week’s empty crate!</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">I wish you all a salubrious week.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">K. Isaac Oliver</p> <p class="MsoNormal">of</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Harmony Ridge Farms</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /><span style=""> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">P.S.<span style=""> </span>To any of you wishing to join our CSA or know of anyone interested, I have begun a waiting list.<span style=""> </span>We may open up more shares for purchase in the near future.<span style=""> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal">I leave you all with some more pictures from the farm…<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6T7uY_ZwkCSU_rC4ILDphuSE6aHqZxGo14sy424NXHT9uzM4ZQLCjqtMDZWI7V59tsB8-InKSpjBSFsjFG4566yRWcSFF1K_dLRUr1XIwjrzKVR_DaPWS4mYJCZRItBNRG6cjLQCtWn0/s1600/CIMG2578.JPG"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6T7uY_ZwkCSU_rC4ILDphuSE6aHqZxGo14sy424NXHT9uzM4ZQLCjqtMDZWI7V59tsB8-InKSpjBSFsjFG4566yRWcSFF1K_dLRUr1XIwjrzKVR_DaPWS4mYJCZRItBNRG6cjLQCtWn0/s320/CIMG2578.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5472703825271744194" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0ynR2Lb_Dho1wKYGosvJilRFoa05AlJ79rbuxuYtyOowZRpSEn2u9FHQWgukZuq_GD6U1kqIVvaqlR0NMRk2vaZjXJ9oFyE9Q5YqXkO5Dfo0OHx1ue2Ecyibi7DjTlkPJ972y-ermxHc/s1600/CIMG2604.JPG"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0ynR2Lb_Dho1wKYGosvJilRFoa05AlJ79rbuxuYtyOowZRpSEn2u9FHQWgukZuq_GD6U1kqIVvaqlR0NMRk2vaZjXJ9oFyE9Q5YqXkO5Dfo0OHx1ue2Ecyibi7DjTlkPJ972y-ermxHc/s320/CIMG2604.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5472701169504570898" border="0" /></a><span style=""> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <!--EndFragment-->K. Isaac Oliverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05466803610949485306noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8839434946732444026.post-14819421874178885362010-05-12T15:25:00.000-07:002010-05-12T15:28:21.036-07:00Ken Vanhoy's StrawberriesWanted to share this...Ken grows the strawberries all you "plus" members received last week. He's a good man. Growing all-natural strawberries is no easy task. <a href="http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#%21/notes/krankies-farmers-market/strawberry-fields-forever-ken-vanhoys-quest-for-pesticide-free-strawberries/121138874574077">http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#!/notes/krankies-farmers-market/strawberry-fields-forever-ken-vanhoys-quest-for-pesticide-free-strawberries/121138874574077</a>K. Isaac Oliverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05466803610949485306noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8839434946732444026.post-4500714973359219362010-04-17T09:42:00.000-07:002010-04-17T09:44:07.463-07:00A Friend's Account of Her Day at Harmony Ridge<a href="http://flowrgirl1.blogspot.com/2010/04/harmony-ridge-farm.html">http://flowrgirl1.blogspot.com/2010/04/harmony-ridge-farm.html</a>K. Isaac Oliverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05466803610949485306noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8839434946732444026.post-77473515949564384502010-04-12T07:15:00.000-07:002010-04-12T07:23:43.612-07:00Ad<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMEmBoPFIREL0MOFcfW1hw8_ihbUVWyWQxprt2zh-3PuMD_Dm6zETaauglMoocbn42tzvM4pko54r-RiLqZaibxoDxuNlaq2hZlcWW9y9aDxSgUAkSTiyoFYeaeMUlI0MeQ5XXjGi-9LU/s1600/HRF+GARDEN+PARTY+AD.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMEmBoPFIREL0MOFcfW1hw8_ihbUVWyWQxprt2zh-3PuMD_Dm6zETaauglMoocbn42tzvM4pko54r-RiLqZaibxoDxuNlaq2hZlcWW9y9aDxSgUAkSTiyoFYeaeMUlI0MeQ5XXjGi-9LU/s320/HRF+GARDEN+PARTY+AD.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5459256398714822530" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Here is an ad I created...just thought I'd share.K. Isaac Oliverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05466803610949485306noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8839434946732444026.post-88990008783946215222010-04-08T09:39:00.000-07:002010-04-08T13:26:05.620-07:00Newsletter #3: April 2010<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil-ms5a3wSd4_7vUpMFr3n5SQRXA8nVPSM61Z25Cz63h-DBspMf4VMTDKmFasAoS8GMGE2Ip8IptbOecJ6hFvMafU-YJSs9Ly_bpAeB6VqvGfoZaJgAnPNMe9ULTSbokGnSZUTG8syr-k/s1600/CIMG2530.JPG"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil-ms5a3wSd4_7vUpMFr3n5SQRXA8nVPSM61Z25Cz63h-DBspMf4VMTDKmFasAoS8GMGE2Ip8IptbOecJ6hFvMafU-YJSs9Ly_bpAeB6VqvGfoZaJgAnPNMe9ULTSbokGnSZUTG8syr-k/s320/CIMG2530.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5457847857478272850" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /> <!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <o:documentproperties> <o:template>Normal</o:Template> <o:revision>0</o:Revision> <o:totaltime>0</o:TotalTime> <o:pages>1</o:Pages> <o:words>1125</o:Words> <o:characters>6413</o:Characters> <o:lines>53</o:Lines> <o:paragraphs>12</o:Paragraphs> <o:characterswithspaces>7875</o:CharactersWithSpaces> <o:version>11.1287</o:Version> </o:DocumentProperties> <o:officedocumentsettings> <o:allowpng/> </o:OfficeDocumentSettings> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:donotshowrevisions/> <w:donotprintrevisions/> <w:displayhorizontaldrawinggridevery>0</w:DisplayHorizontalDrawingGridEvery> <w:displayverticaldrawinggridevery>0</w:DisplayVerticalDrawingGridEvery> <w:usemarginsfordrawinggridorigin/> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--> <style> <!-- /* Font Definitions */ @font-face {font-family:"Times New Roman"; panose-1:0 2 2 6 3 5 4 5 2 3; mso-font-charset:0; mso-generic-font-family:auto; mso-font-pitch:variable; mso-font-signature:50331648 0 0 0 1 0;} /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-parent:""; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman";} a:link, span.MsoHyperlink {color:blue; text-decoration:underline; text-underline:single;} a:visited, span.MsoHyperlinkFollowed {color:purple; text-decoration:underline; text-underline:single;} table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-parent:""; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman";} @page Section1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.Section1 {page:Section1;} --> </style> <!--StartFragment--> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color:black;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color:black;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color:black;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color:black;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color:black;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color:black;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color:black;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color:black;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color:black;">Spring in the Piedmont:<span style=""> </span>the welcoming buds of maple, then the tumble of cherry blossoms and shock of redbud, a brief taste of the swelter to follow, then back again…the b</span><span style="color:black;">looms of the dogwood remind you it’s only April.<span style=""><br /></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /><span style="color:black;"><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color:black;">Where I sit, the creek bottom crackles with sound at daybreak – one song overlapping the next </span><span style="color:black;">and I reckon our language inferior. The scent of so much growth is sweet as th</span><span style="color:black;">e rot beneath.<span style=""> </span>The balm in the air is heady and uplifting.<span style=""> </span>But how long can such sweetness last?</span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfatkdJLvU4Ac73ZxbM9Nxb6rJwQsyOjWOQX4WYnsWoZP4WoO3BWPLeYvlW2gKFRBgJabVHjgNjmcF0GYdAKktENxd1FrfiCoHZhnLWAbvBfTfZu3VGmp4PXZIa6lXQkJDB40Uy2wemPM/s1600/CIMG2565.JPG"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfatkdJLvU4Ac73ZxbM9Nxb6rJwQsyOjWOQX4WYnsWoZP4WoO3BWPLeYvlW2gKFRBgJabVHjgNjmcF0GYdAKktENxd1FrfiCoHZhnLWAbvBfTfZu3VGmp4PXZIa6lXQkJDB40Uy2wemPM/s320/CIMG2565.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5457852410557523586" border="0" /></a></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color:black;"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color:black;">The organic farmer must be in tune with cycles, the needs of plants</span><span style="color:black;"> according</span><span style="color:black;"> to </span><span style="color:black;">th</span><span style="color:black;">es</span><span style="color:black;">e cycles and accepting of change, be it for good or otherwise.<span style=""> </span>And this in-tuneness is mostly learned.<span style=""> </span>Sometimes the ha</span><span style="color:black;">rd way.<span style=""> </span>He plants a row of cabbage e</span><span style="color:black;">arly on – known to be one of the hardiest of crops – a cold night, barely 32, leaves the row mottled and bitten </span><span style="color:black;">by frost.<span style=""> </span>Cabbage is hardy, yes, but must be hardened (that is, slowly a</span><span style="color:black;">cclimatized to life outside the greenhouse) if it is to thrive.<span style=""> </span>He knew this intellectually, but until he felt the pain of losing something he’d labored fo</span><span style="color:black;">r that knowledge was only information.<span style=""> </span>Impatience was not solely responsible for this loss.<span style=""> </span>Muleheadedness had something to do with it.<span style=""> </span>This fall he’ll scatter some cabbage seeds and hope for the best. (This is a hypothetical farmer we are speaking of, by the way.)<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color:black;"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color:black;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color:black;">There have been a few setbacks.<span style=""> </span>Much of these setbacks may be filed under the heading:<span style=""> </span>“Mistakes made due to bad timing”. (Farming, like music, is all about timing in tune with atmosphere.) <span style=""> </span>Transplanting before a long string of warm, sunny days, tilling ground not quite dry enough and transplanting too near midday are a few examples.<span style=""> </span>Thus far these hard lessons have come outside the greenhouse, where growth has been steady and strong.<span style=""> </span>In an attempt to offset any errors we might make come Spring we started planting early in the greenhouse, following these plantings with a second or third wave through February and March.<span style=""> </span>Ironically, the first wave and every wave thereafter has grown like crazy, and therein has laid the source of most “mistakes made due to bad timing”.<span style=""> </span>There’s been simply too many healthy plants to transfer outside on too few ideal planting days.<span style=""> </span>But we just keep plugging and planting and plenty are thriving.<span style=""> </span>We have been fortunate these 9</span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqQOK_cfH-pUmgasK2jqzp7N6LC_EZxJTWTY6wu-0qWLVuND1TA7kSd6PzmzTsad1iFiIb_lGH3W6unpV-_rB4U8PJU2rLRrELQfK7Yo87PEk0-PfhFyQ4JwoH-LCX3qft1z2DmDJGxC4/s1600/CIMG2524.JPG"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqQOK_cfH-pUmgasK2jqzp7N6LC_EZxJTWTY6wu-0qWLVuND1TA7kSd6PzmzTsad1iFiIb_lGH3W6unpV-_rB4U8PJU2rLRrELQfK7Yo87PEk0-PfhFyQ4JwoH-LCX3qft1z2DmDJGxC4/s320/CIMG2524.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5457848181546166722" border="0" /></a><span style="color:black;">0-some days didn’t send our greens to the dreaded bolt.<span style=""> </span>But there are many good days to come and no “snaps” in sight.<span style=""> </span>So with the accumu</span><span style="color:black;">lated wisdom of a challenging</span><span style="color:black;"> winter and early Spring under my belt, I’ll strid</span><span style="color:black;">e ahead knowing there’s no real need to rush growth, as it happens organically all the time.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /><span style="color:black;"><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color:black;"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color:black;">As I mull over all that’s been accomplished thus far I can almost marvel at the progress we’ve made since taking off in early fall (with a little help from our friends).<span style=""> </span>First off, most all the infrastructure is in place – the barn lacks only some interior detail work (you can see the finished exterior), the irrigation system is piped in and being stretched from bed to bed and the greenhouse supporting a diversity of plant life.<span style=""> </span>Much of the cover crop has been turned into the soil and amendments added – lime, compost and fertilizer.<span style=""> </span>An ample number of broccoli, lettuce, chard, beet and cabbage (yes, cabbage) plants have acclimated to life outdoors.<span style=""> </span>The alliums (onions, leeks and garlic ) are growing just as well as</span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGldQLcCuVoNZmrchKFAPl7JCbrzQF2qX3szqT3sEca9iYACOSokO06zO7taP8h07L8xWWEfq8Ahpwoym2uZu_qSP5VB930vLf23U2jLV49xTM6ufFMS9YbRfPUGWkf2rJgpNk3V_-zHM/s1600/CIMG2547.JPG"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGldQLcCuVoNZmrchKFAPl7JCbrzQF2qX3szqT3sEca9iYACOSokO06zO7taP8h07L8xWWEfq8Ahpwoym2uZu_qSP5VB930vLf23U2jLV49xTM6ufFMS9YbRfPUGWkf2rJgpNk3V_-zHM/s320/CIMG2547.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5457851348205490418" border="0" /></a><span style="color:black;"> the weeds that love to accompany them.<span style=""> </span>The radish, snap pea, mustard and arugula seeds we sowed outdoors are growing nicely also.<span style=""> </span>We’re on the brink of seeing the spuds sprout.<span style=""> </span>And it looks like we’ll have some early tomatoes in May if we can coax the bees to get busy.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /><span style="color:black;"><span style=""> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color:black;"><span style=""> </span>To our delight, we’ve had great success </span><span style="color:black;">growing gr</span><span style="color:black;">eenhouse lettuces despite the recent hea</span><span style="color:black;">t.<span style=""> </span>Some we planted directly into bags of McEnroe potting soil and others we planted in raised beds atop tables using homemade potting soil.<span style=""> </span>We produced a soil blend in our compost tumbler using aged horse manure, peat moss, vermiculite, greensand and rock phosphate.<span style=""> </span>Once mixed, the soil as transferred to tables topped with chicken wire and sy</span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoaNO4__VHozHVTJEiNZvTUxVcrfbWX-b6sBDProq-xQ-1FFBHGi3RasfaO-d3EFFNep-ipAd_qD23-FQqMWN4_8wsVgR9L91I_BtbhL9Hz07whdjKMauY14hfuejNwbKOYW7_atw-VVw/s1600/CIMG2543.JPG"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoaNO4__VHozHVTJEiNZvTUxVcrfbWX-b6sBDProq-xQ-1FFBHGi3RasfaO-d3EFFNep-ipAd_qD23-FQqMWN4_8wsVgR9L91I_BtbhL9Hz07whdjKMauY14hfuejNwbKOYW7_atw-VVw/s320/CIMG2543.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5457849477335873858" border="0" /></a><span style="color:black;">nthetic burlap.<span style=""> </span>Our trial batch of lettuce is full grown and tender as can be.<span style=""> </span>Barring any setbacks, we will offer early lettuce to our CSA members by the end of April for pickup at the farm.<span style=""> </span>(I’ll let you all kno</span><span style="color:black;">w as soon as they are available.)</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /><span style="color:black;"><span style=""> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color:black;"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color:black;">We’ve been busy planting edible perennials as well: asparag</span><span style="color:black;">us, rhubarb, horseradish, blackberry, raspberry and elderberry all went into beds situated near our section of Mill Creek.<span style=""> </span>Fig trees and rosemary grown from cuttings are rooting and vegging out in the greenhouse.<span style=""> </span>There are even little figs!<span style=""> </span>It looks like it will be fall before we can plant many fr</span><span style="color:black;">uit trees – peaches, plu</span><span style="color:black;">ms and apples are part of the (very fluid) orchard plan, in addition to some natives such as persimmons and pawpaws.<span style=""> </span>Any advice on what fruits and varieties grow best here is welcome.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /><span style="color:black;"><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color:black;"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color:black;">In the last few weeks we’ve been lucky to have some volunteer farmhands at</span><span style="color:black;"> the time when we need it most.<span style=""> </span>A couple friends of mine, Kalin Griffin and Michelle Verville, as well as my Mom, Wendy, and wife, Holly, have devoted some of their valuable time to help with some chores around the farm.<span style=""> </span>Michelle is a professional horticulturist and orchard scout from Michigan who is interested in starting a small CSA in her home state and wanted to experience our operatio</span><span style="color:black;">n.<span style=""> </span>She provided some valuable organic pest control and greenhousing advice for which I’m most grateful.<span style=""> </span>Thanks Kalin, Holly, Michelle and Mom for all your hard work!<span style=""> </span>We are always open to having an extra hand around…I believe the experience can be educational and fun.<span style=""> </span>Learn practical skills and get a work out in!</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /><span style="color:black;"><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color:black;"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color:black;"><span style=""> </span>Our 2010 CSA is almost full.<span style=""> </span>There are only 3 shares available for purchase.<span style=""> </span>The particulars of our program are covered in the March newsletter posted here:<span style=""> </span>If you are interested in being a part of our charter membership please act fast!<span style=""> </span></span><span style="color:black;">Some folks have told us to sign them up: your payment in full reserves your family’s share in our farm. </span><span style="color:black;">Contact me, Isaac, at <a href="mailto:harmonyridgefarms@gmail.com">harmonyridgefarms@gmail.com</a> or call 336.922.5611 for payment information.<span style=""><br /></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /><span style="color:black;"><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color:black;"><span style=""> </span>By request, we have decided to offer home delivery as part of the CSA program.<span style=""> </span>Applicants must live within or very near Winston-Salem or within 10 miles of Tobaccoville.<span style=""> </span>Home delivery is $100 for the entire harvest season (May-October) delivered directly to your front door.<span style=""> </span>Delivery will occur on Fridays, as will our share drop-offs.<span style=""><br /></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /><span style="color:black;"><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color:black;"><span style=""> </span>CSA shares will be available Friday mornings at three locations:<span style=""> </span>(1)<span style=""> </span>Harmony Ridge Farms, 3835 Bowens Rd., Tobaccoville, NC, 27050,<span style=""> </span>(2) New Planet Yoga, 1150 Burke St., Winston-Salem, 27101 (between Burke Street Pizza and Price Davis Florist).<span style=""> </span>Parking is behind the building.<span style=""> </span>And (3) my parents’ front porch (Kevin and W</span><span style="color:black;">endy Oliver):<span style=""> </span>3620 Rosebriar Circle, Winston-Salem, 27106.<span style=""> </span>Specific times for drop-offs and home delivery will soon be determined. If anyone absolutely cannot pickup Fridays, we can talk.<br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /><span style="color:black;"><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color:black;"><span style=""> </span>Thanks again to all of you that have supported our farm CSA.<span style=""> </span>Our gratitude goes out to Jeff Holderfield and crew for building an awesome barn as well as Gene Renegar of Triad Turf for helping us set-up an effective irrigation system. Thanks also to Meghan Prior of New Planet Yoga, who has graciously allowed us to use her lot for share drop-offs.<span style=""> </span>And a special thanks to everyone that has provided words of encouragement (and prayers!) <span style=""> </span>Wishing you all a merry April!</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /><span style="color:black;"><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color:black;"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color:black;">Cheers,<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color:black;">K. Isaac Oliver<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color:black;">Manager<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color:black;">Harmony Ridge Farms</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color:black;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color:black;">My Dad, Kevin, behind our favorite machine: the BCS tiller:<br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color:black;"><br /></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAT9nxVy9jnoajYaLY7p0DCV4xFTjfMCpX82fFVSxBwnccAkdVOCQfkGIJS-b41c3ZPpG0DNOCptA5eto8wRHR7HwneF-XKruCZa1o0S4KKgmhAPIc5BtmZIL2yi7j6nOZCBqJxCQUT68/s1600/CIMG2575.JPG"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 205px; height: 274px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAT9nxVy9jnoajYaLY7p0DCV4xFTjfMCpX82fFVSxBwnccAkdVOCQfkGIJS-b41c3ZPpG0DNOCptA5eto8wRHR7HwneF-XKruCZa1o0S4KKgmhAPIc5BtmZIL2yi7j6nOZCBqJxCQUT68/s320/CIMG2575.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5457852879638033138" border="0" /></a></p> <!--EndFragment-->K. Isaac Oliverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05466803610949485306noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8839434946732444026.post-23044569840622969532010-03-03T12:46:00.000-08:002010-03-17T06:10:06.883-07:00March 2010: Newsletter and CSA Info<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi689VEzvSJju5hfD5kGwXH58zhvN-6ENTK6gCeU1ASwgkYx6Z4cAnUPkxxUmZXRxAuHO1RMvCiOf4fK2U9ihhBS1bmMBoZo9cI25CvNVM3nWtcUCo9GsCGLzvL-Cziz0Z2xekaF73FTEE/s1600-h/CIMG2340.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi689VEzvSJju5hfD5kGwXH58zhvN-6ENTK6gCeU1ASwgkYx6Z4cAnUPkxxUmZXRxAuHO1RMvCiOf4fK2U9ihhBS1bmMBoZo9cI25CvNVM3nWtcUCo9GsCGLzvL-Cziz0Z2xekaF73FTEE/s320/CIMG2340.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444512409458669970" border="0" /></a><br />Yes, strange as it seems the fairer season is only seventeen days off. I almost can't remember the trees in their clothes. Their gnarled, naked bodies are getting old. But soon enough they'll be donning their budded underthings and somehow be reborn. Full-on green-garbed modesty will usher in summer and these wet, white fields will be a distant memory. Interesting how the seasons facilitate forgetfulness, and help us get on with our lives. I appreciate the changes after my time in Washington state, where the seasons are pared down to two: the wet, dark one and the too-short dry one. This winter may have been a long one in here in North Carolina, but we have so much to look forward to.<br /><br />Not the least of which is home-grown goodness! Our greenhouse is growing more lush by the day. The broccoli is already dwarving the four-inch pots they’ve been transplanted into. We got a little overexcited and planted them a bit early back in January. They’re eagerly awaiting their day outside the plastic.<br /><br />It looks as though we may have the window we need to plant outside b<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAD76JHmJ_8mhKXwhoXqGfwyT3oo8GiyXXbWgmSZSL3sV1sEghCegMsm8ivVB7aCDjBPy8ag6Wm60-w4kSfR4DhJy8_KBKvqrvVLQRcoVw6-1ZUJUt5eQ9_oduUMQV-UdavjbSPlUAeEg/s1600-h/CIMG2333.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAD76JHmJ_8mhKXwhoXqGfwyT3oo8GiyXXbWgmSZSL3sV1sEghCegMsm8ivVB7aCDjBPy8ag6Wm60-w4kSfR4DhJy8_KBKvqrvVLQRcoVw6-1ZUJUt5eQ9_oduUMQV-UdavjbSPlUAeEg/s320/CIMG2333.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444512669740286802" border="0" /></a>y Sunday or Monday if the ground has a chance to dry out. Onions, leeks, kale, beets and some hardier greens will be planted out, followed by a few peach, plum and fig trees later in the week. Lettuces will go out around late-March under row covers to keep temperatures up a bit at night and deter deer.<br />I had the chance this past weekend to work some of the beds that will soon be planted, incorporating lime, Harmony fertilizer and compost with our BCS walking tractor. It is a wonderfully versatile contraption, great for intensively working smaller plots. The planting beds are getting nice and fluffy.<br /><br />The barn is coming along nicely as well. The siding, roof and insulation are installed. In addition, we are now heating our house and greenhouse with wood, as the water stove is up and running. Moreover, the well is irrigating our greenhouse, so I now have time to do other things besides water plants. Like plan for our first CSA…<br /><br />I suppose you all are wondering what our CSA will be. First off, we will have 20 families (or individuals) sign up for the program. After the initial 20 members confirm their membership a waiting list will be formed. Those topping the list will be given an opportunity to sign up if another member withdraws. Here’s what a subscriber can expect to enjoy:<br /><br />• 22 weeks of fresh, naturally grown vegetables and herbs grown here, by us for you. The season will run from the week of Mother’s Day (May 9th) to the first week of October.<br />• The weight of the weekly basket will be between 4-8 Lbs depending on the season.<br />• The opportunity to help out and learn basic skills on the farm (if so<br />desired)<br />• A contribution to the local community and ecosystem by supporting a (near) carbon-neutral, low-waste and chemical-free food production system. The health of our water and soil is of utmost importance to us.<br />• Close proximity to Winston-Salem. We are 3 miles Northwest of Winston-Salem off Reynolda Rd. Scheduled visits are welcome.<br />• An annual member farm tour/barbeque.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNkCM__kKNLrnO0ZN-fBHy5mzpowJyTnQRDOp2RuVW22UF8rpzwjSxORIjA10TIVZNYOYLTFjeDIEqHX9prOrz-LnBOthG_OTaHXWa0QaDLgY8bpHJCL-y6N1CkWKTEMZEjfMK8rEXJw4/s1600-h/CIMG2330.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNkCM__kKNLrnO0ZN-fBHy5mzpowJyTnQRDOp2RuVW22UF8rpzwjSxORIjA10TIVZNYOYLTFjeDIEqHX9prOrz-LnBOthG_OTaHXWa0QaDLgY8bpHJCL-y6N1CkWKTEMZEjfMK8rEXJw4/s320/CIMG2330.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444513205973851474" border="0" /></a><br />• The peace of mind of knowing the source of your family’s food.<br /><br />We have valued the above benefits at $650, to be paid upfront. (This works out to less than $30 per week.) Payment received prior to the harvest season ensures your place as a member and ensures we have the resources we need to provide you with the most vibrant and varied produce possible. Please contact me to see the latest 2010 Harvest Calendar.<br />Harmony Ridge will also offer a ‘Plus’ program. ‘Plus’ members will receive all of the above listed benefits in addition to the following:<br /><br />• Locally sourced (really) free-range, vegetarian-fed eggs<br />• Locally sourced pesticide-free honey<br />• Locally sourced, seasonally available fruits and berries. All fruits will be as naturally grown as we can find.<br />• Potted herbs for trying on your greenthumbs at home.<br /><br />We have priced the “CSA Plus” at $875. The added cost of the “Plus” program figures in the logistics of sourcing, including the time we spend picking fruit and traveling to acquire these goodies.<br /><br />To assure your place in our CSA please email me at harmonyridgefarms@gmail.com or call 336.922.5611 to arrange payment. You are welcome to see our operation before signing on.<br />A few more notes on the CSA deliveries. We will set our weekly drop-off locations once we know where our members are located. The two delivery locales will be strategically placed to ensure convenience for each member. Members will also have the option of picking up their produce at the farm in Tobaccoville. Those located outside the immediate Winston-Salem area will, however, be asked to travel to one of our drop-off spots. If you cannot meet on a delivery date, please arrange to have your share collected, otherwise we will donate it.<br /><br />I’m sure there are some details I left out. Please direct any questions to me, Isaac.<br /><br />Thank you all for your support. We are tremendously grateful for this opportunity to serve our community.K. Isaac Oliverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05466803610949485306noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8839434946732444026.post-52062432746173610462010-02-03T17:53:00.000-08:002010-02-03T20:11:13.311-08:00Rising Above the Muck and Snow<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF5G9lbiXb-zj-HNTUdYBE25ytLvWF5g3YDsu8_1q1JP33w15taDdrC2jovCFXR6XrREiJXqRgPsCNyLL_oRQJDghaeEWhTjDGDbPfSryiIFhmOO-q38-x3V008idubnbNihOWrmc5NWk/s1600-h/R1-+1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 216px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF5G9lbiXb-zj-HNTUdYBE25ytLvWF5g3YDsu8_1q1JP33w15taDdrC2jovCFXR6XrREiJXqRgPsCNyLL_oRQJDghaeEWhTjDGDbPfSryiIFhmOO-q38-x3V008idubnbNihOWrmc5NWk/s320/R1-+1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434225658554753874" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />An old German saying goes: If the winter is warm, the farmer will be poor. (Yes! Us farmers will be raking it in this year) Of course the old German farmers also said, "If the rooster crows on the manure pile, the weather will change." Tell me who keeps an eye on a manure pile before daybreak.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9xvt9eboIedyJu4LYx93RbrGbvcS1U_VyRGAw-IKfso63SVTvcz6LJII_LF6c_APtgpC1qrwl5WIAqyxiav9AlUnjwDjF3lLPUO7IJNecLdZtYckOBpmDV35m6pz-Uf-0-2ZmkT0VWlg/s1600-h/R1-19A.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 270px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9xvt9eboIedyJu4LYx93RbrGbvcS1U_VyRGAw-IKfso63SVTvcz6LJII_LF6c_APtgpC1qrwl5WIAqyxiav9AlUnjwDjF3lLPUO7IJNecLdZtYckOBpmDV35m6pz-Uf-0-2ZmkT0VWlg/s400/R1-19A.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434215012931351730" border="0" /></a><br />Yes, it's cold and it's wet. What to do - go inside! The greenhouse, that is. On a sunny day, it's a solid 80 degrees under plastic. Our barn contractor, Jeff, thought I'd gone off the wagon when he caught me sowing cabbage seeds shirtless on Monday. But hey, might as well soak up the rays we've got.<br />Some of our first seedlings of the year have emerged: broccoli, leeks, cabbages, and various greens including arugula and swiss chard. <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl7G6ocPEoTuFHe9sfRCzkFjuLFblHeGyHGbPY_r-0wpmf2wQ_lou3wfnXOBTTROBYkc5btKGb1yvHhTid0CT_McGJMAA20TAwbz9T11fQxSb1F2mjmpftQiRVRZMmLYdsi7fjo3BuCsg/s1600-h/R1-+1A.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 216px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl7G6ocPEoTuFHe9sfRCzkFjuLFblHeGyHGbPY_r-0wpmf2wQ_lou3wfnXOBTTROBYkc5btKGb1yvHhTid0CT_McGJMAA20TAwbz9T11fQxSb1F2mjmpftQiRVRZMmLYdsi7fjo3BuCsg/s320/R1-+1A.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434212826861830786" border="0" /></a>I've recently moved all our flats to "the big house" now that we have the power of propane on our side. Soon our primary heat source, the wood-burning water stove (pictured left being miraculously lifted by Tony Ball) will be powered up. Tony installed the behemoth; we're just waiting on Duke Power to run us a line. Jeff Holderfeld (standing right of Tony) has designed and is building a beautiful barn. We are quite impressed with the progress that he and his crew have made. I've included pictures documenting the progress below the article. Thanks Jeff!<br /><br />The use of our irrigation system also hinges on Duke power. (I'm hoping someone that reads this wields some power at Duke.) The lines and pump are installed, just waiting to go to work for us. On a sunny day I'm practically camped out in the greenhouse with a backpack sprayer strapped to my back. The soil surface drys out pretty quick when it's so warm, which could prolong seedling germination. So I water. It's kind of like babysitting but without the whining. Another reason I enjoy working with plants. Just kidding - about the kids.<br /><br />I'm putting the polish on the first newsletter. All of you that have expressed interest should receive it in the next day or two. If you or a friend are not already on the listserve and would like to be please let me know at harmonyridgefarms@gmail.com. Also, we are open to any requests regarding seed purchase. If there's a unique edible you'd like us to grow, we'll do our best (within reason). We'll have a harvest calendar posted soon as well, so those of you wishing to purchase produce will know what we'll have available and when.<br />Thanks you all for your support and encouragement. Hang in there, Spring is just around the corner. Ha!<br /><br /><br />"The Grove" pictured pre-barn.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOv0P7k6wFKpV5xFWGsZDKjtJWh3xFhY4-Qe_Kj_8-AXKFqeuHSPAOF-kRusOFdr9QssB9DQuBH5ospUAUX0yyUcj-ZS4QN8okRjWK11V-cqYe_-mTiR2E9E4Bgr2DsDl3vgyBT9Ly3rs/s1600-h/R1-+4.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 270px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOv0P7k6wFKpV5xFWGsZDKjtJWh3xFhY4-Qe_Kj_8-AXKFqeuHSPAOF-kRusOFdr9QssB9DQuBH5ospUAUX0yyUcj-ZS4QN8okRjWK11V-cqYe_-mTiR2E9E4Bgr2DsDl3vgyBT9Ly3rs/s400/R1-+4.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434216526721860194" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTNpxqe6DaejbZq8oFP-3fyFkWVUf0ltINMI2fZN6b7-scyU1eicsz3AMpZjoL-syxaqlaQdvXyPV1lRxIoBTwXZJXCReiM07K4D-c45lYTGCUyTHFaxmJPMjt-_yq4-dt8RlWgdq0XaM/s1600-h/R1-11A.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 216px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTNpxqe6DaejbZq8oFP-3fyFkWVUf0ltINMI2fZN6b7-scyU1eicsz3AMpZjoL-syxaqlaQdvXyPV1lRxIoBTwXZJXCReiM07K4D-c45lYTGCUyTHFaxmJPMjt-_yq4-dt8RlWgdq0XaM/s320/R1-11A.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434220300951000578" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuMwjDXcowA-TCeFzxE89ID4XUkXjkDGbJ5fYc6q7Wp4wv9iOlVELSUxpGmClyOSqVGUQjnqepUCBcVvbKKMnNsMqkuTYFx-Xm6pNbHeZY0He6qsCOdDU7zxSZZaSsjIKmATIE4nPQ_gY/s1600-h/R1-15A.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 216px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuMwjDXcowA-TCeFzxE89ID4XUkXjkDGbJ5fYc6q7Wp4wv9iOlVELSUxpGmClyOSqVGUQjnqepUCBcVvbKKMnNsMqkuTYFx-Xm6pNbHeZY0He6qsCOdDU7zxSZZaSsjIKmATIE4nPQ_gY/s320/R1-15A.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434221233402285458" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNNn4_S5FBDqkyatB8SPLgGQEL6OaobaUxtIzdjjP7gMv1Y2ZBLdwqImQ2X8dQLOVstfYA1UtADEG3weaQ28Ky08PqdyTQAp-G8w9PKaZ_nU70xbuqPJatCKYJL-V_4IVSVFAlkhV7ddw/s1600-h/R1-13A.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 270px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNNn4_S5FBDqkyatB8SPLgGQEL6OaobaUxtIzdjjP7gMv1Y2ZBLdwqImQ2X8dQLOVstfYA1UtADEG3weaQ28Ky08PqdyTQAp-G8w9PKaZ_nU70xbuqPJatCKYJL-V_4IVSVFAlkhV7ddw/s400/R1-13A.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434218096982483890" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZRW9sAwq8p-1hCQrO_jP9xZOBbVNkHrGzg2i_KktANGj19kU3DDLUQ8Z7w1VEzic7_Cyyrpiw1IRRLqjtF30UOf0aVKXMfxBrapIvQwugrfkugFyu-SWjP0H5zcl8mhqDurLsUhs1zcU/s1600-h/R1-14A.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 216px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZRW9sAwq8p-1hCQrO_jP9xZOBbVNkHrGzg2i_KktANGj19kU3DDLUQ8Z7w1VEzic7_Cyyrpiw1IRRLqjtF30UOf0aVKXMfxBrapIvQwugrfkugFyu-SWjP0H5zcl8mhqDurLsUhs1zcU/s320/R1-14A.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434221995397721122" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrAmUT8VTHwjI5wQkGJrpV2oIUbZ5KZ5UShNR9BtinnflizElgtUUoGGwDh9IVYtvnUsF7f2i5DfBi_5FvoHVoT-SCo-ROUN_CaRBmqQdjcdp_0JIjE5urUXq25a-IZed-moBBOGcrHtU/s1600-h/R1-20A.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 135px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrAmUT8VTHwjI5wQkGJrpV2oIUbZ5KZ5UShNR9BtinnflizElgtUUoGGwDh9IVYtvnUsF7f2i5DfBi_5FvoHVoT-SCo-ROUN_CaRBmqQdjcdp_0JIjE5urUXq25a-IZed-moBBOGcrHtU/s200/R1-20A.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434224420363821922" border="0" /></a>K. Isaac Oliverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05466803610949485306noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8839434946732444026.post-41460846786479266892010-01-11T09:05:00.000-08:002010-01-11T09:25:21.228-08:00Photos 11.09 - 1.10<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLkTh-Fa-a7cH4thyphenhyphenKSlwOILMeXVieiWxLFk9UisSvNjtYt5web7B1TpqNalGESHTij4ojerDJBr-tT_Y3WHGVM4mt-tYgGvtGK-yvqDqcDiefk_w5oPYcW8__6hXmpeZRaoVqg-x_yXc/s1600-h/R1-15.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 216px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLkTh-Fa-a7cH4thyphenhyphenKSlwOILMeXVieiWxLFk9UisSvNjtYt5web7B1TpqNalGESHTij4ojerDJBr-tT_Y3WHGVM4mt-tYgGvtGK-yvqDqcDiefk_w5oPYcW8__6hXmpeZRaoVqg-x_yXc/s320/R1-15.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425534522641569730" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0De9mZUuYHL_9bGLis9IpRnYa8ECSE-Zx_Z5FqyZGXM3isPyRaS1CVG8FJ4-jhMaCtL1bYF-zTTVclMectSP9TqAct1prBDLnl-mV02K6D1-gV5WSuNRZO9PAa_WzKZO5EbGpu9tv5dc/s1600-h/R1-16.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 216px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0De9mZUuYHL_9bGLis9IpRnYa8ECSE-Zx_Z5FqyZGXM3isPyRaS1CVG8FJ4-jhMaCtL1bYF-zTTVclMectSP9TqAct1prBDLnl-mV02K6D1-gV5WSuNRZO9PAa_WzKZO5EbGpu9tv5dc/s320/R1-16.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425534299327220818" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuHBjKgTx2JOpEmm-Es9uNFnUOAlQN_7gkscolf4BjV3tdh68mQkEjYl7XHjKJJ6a7o_mSEVtlkf6pKyCS-LZS7EgITVGQaIP2EOeEWpkev5Fdp5SmysobIMjcpDJLQtVQbo7VM6bvWoI/s1600-h/R1-11.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 216px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuHBjKgTx2JOpEmm-Es9uNFnUOAlQN_7gkscolf4BjV3tdh68mQkEjYl7XHjKJJ6a7o_mSEVtlkf6pKyCS-LZS7EgITVGQaIP2EOeEWpkev5Fdp5SmysobIMjcpDJLQtVQbo7VM6bvWoI/s320/R1-11.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425534062363108178" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmRcmXELxYkUpfmQW6PGS3oxJWbTYqtu9PezVA2gVKCNNa4bZ_-FvbECu-KJiMblclsKDArZczIP1B8gAbS543BxLRKMkd6oqkkt8olasij_rY_f4SRnca3Otdjhywl6bptzzm9tWkisQ/s1600-h/stone+on+the+water.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmRcmXELxYkUpfmQW6PGS3oxJWbTYqtu9PezVA2gVKCNNa4bZ_-FvbECu-KJiMblclsKDArZczIP1B8gAbS543BxLRKMkd6oqkkt8olasij_rY_f4SRnca3Otdjhywl6bptzzm9tWkisQ/s320/stone+on+the+water.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425531711538012258" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDU3mPliYZ-S9LiWmd5TPa1Yr9fDDEBhhtEV5aIfO5q0rPG2Zj3eFXFauwvQGylURhfeDHFK2SgkCghB_B2iOsEwwEBnmIpbqzFTB7_1pXJZvVxXfad-tN75ormTxAzcx14yS34-RrbS0/s1600-h/CIMG2252.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDU3mPliYZ-S9LiWmd5TPa1Yr9fDDEBhhtEV5aIfO5q0rPG2Zj3eFXFauwvQGylURhfeDHFK2SgkCghB_B2iOsEwwEBnmIpbqzFTB7_1pXJZvVxXfad-tN75ormTxAzcx14yS34-RrbS0/s320/CIMG2252.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425531321321267042" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqLCIgFQYz68KguHF0kALrZyMwicW6SnHwHy6Vds4-idqSmiFg8Cn2rWsR3FQS_ToiNyK4Amjz0clj0HzH3_8gbIfz3UGcDf64vq1IeRPg_wHsdneyd9ozl8MLqWkw8wdPnTPqBXjgVVU/s1600-h/R1-+8.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 216px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqLCIgFQYz68KguHF0kALrZyMwicW6SnHwHy6Vds4-idqSmiFg8Cn2rWsR3FQS_ToiNyK4Amjz0clj0HzH3_8gbIfz3UGcDf64vq1IeRPg_wHsdneyd9ozl8MLqWkw8wdPnTPqBXjgVVU/s320/R1-+8.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425530201909616658" border="0" /></a>K. Isaac Oliverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05466803610949485306noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8839434946732444026.post-21699215802546402952010-01-11T07:55:00.000-08:002010-01-11T09:04:10.454-08:00December/Early January Happenings<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC9oOyC5W4eGUxU1N2no16YsucWCtYN99gwMQjmGWjtBFB7Az3Gx6-xT0e2cYBmpV6aUi0CunKBOKl2bE7rFuekLGsBVK0GkbkPSsU-V_DtNLWslcEHn8iBLDqkAQPLi-c9UmZqCH9n4A/s1600-h/R1-25.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 216px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC9oOyC5W4eGUxU1N2no16YsucWCtYN99gwMQjmGWjtBFB7Az3Gx6-xT0e2cYBmpV6aUi0CunKBOKl2bE7rFuekLGsBVK0GkbkPSsU-V_DtNLWslcEHn8iBLDqkAQPLi-c9UmZqCH9n4A/s320/R1-25.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425528178840691618" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-_YNScyV-H5W8zE7kal4qnRVTP6Qca4O4Lu1A0dlztPbO5nBcx4AZzcci41g85hXIW5KCtsb8OfIBv4LBNV4HsMtG5XCnBuTeGSS5RCy8of5HzadQ2Qi0uJSwMNuvZ8eHRf6qg6QJuZI/s1600-h/R1-22.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 216px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-_YNScyV-H5W8zE7kal4qnRVTP6Qca4O4Lu1A0dlztPbO5nBcx4AZzcci41g85hXIW5KCtsb8OfIBv4LBNV4HsMtG5XCnBuTeGSS5RCy8of5HzadQ2Qi0uJSwMNuvZ8eHRf6qg6QJuZI/s320/R1-22.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425527324376475346" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhthXlcUPRP7AcSC3_Vasemc6lFmznCqfl3aWy9mduMEy9Udy_EmjVF2vSpCBcDRnTxnqWMcuGIU18SmPPO4p3mVDijDvpG8eOZEeplQ8XZa2qtUIdGnW-Pa8zQbZGJLwbYpBmrPEYMrKg/s1600-h/R1-23.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 216px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhthXlcUPRP7AcSC3_Vasemc6lFmznCqfl3aWy9mduMEy9Udy_EmjVF2vSpCBcDRnTxnqWMcuGIU18SmPPO4p3mVDijDvpG8eOZEeplQ8XZa2qtUIdGnW-Pa8zQbZGJLwbYpBmrPEYMrKg/s320/R1-23.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425514287991084226" border="0" /></a><br />I thought I'd drop a note to all you hanging on pins and needles waiting to find out more. Is that how the expression goes? I doubt it. Anyway, as any of you know that have gone outside lately, it's cold. The blueberries got planted over the course of a whirlwind Saturday in early December. Since then they've been hammered by frigid temps and bone-chilling wind. I do believe the roots were given ample time to establish though, and thus should weather the snap. Progress otherwise has been slow but steady. The greenhouse tables are up and waiting to grow something (as pictured above). Greenhouse production will begin around mid-February. Our irrigation and heat systems are in the making. The heater situated above the door will be an auxiliary heater powered by propane. Our main heat source will be a 1000 gallon wood-burning water boiler which will heat our home, greenhouse and barn. If all goes as planned, this will allow us to grow in the greenhouse all winter long next year, effectively making us a four-season farm. And fossil-fuel free! So we've been thinning out some unhealthy trees in our woodlot for future fuel. In the process, we were able to establish two more planting beds along the forest's edge for raspberry and elderberry production.<br />We are continuing the soil-building process on our fields and will be turning over an additional quarter of an acre of botttomland for added vegetable production space. (As soon as the ground thaws and clear skies give us the window we need.)<br />I'm in the process of gathering e-mails for our listserve. I'll be sending out e-newsletters and CSA info beginning February. If you're interested in receiving communications please drop me a note at harmonyridgefarms@gmail.com. Thanks and happy gardening!K. Isaac Oliverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05466803610949485306noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8839434946732444026.post-54292601631537882882009-12-11T08:34:00.000-08:002009-12-11T10:29:28.352-08:00Laying the Groundwork, Late Summer, Fall 2009<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEVl2s6xdaYuFydwhyphenhyphenHOdkfx853H0OU8k-GcQWH1hOev7rc8TnIHqRvmczhyphenhyphen8xf9MImEeZyhY4RMzcDIiNn1-h3r-NztZy6Al7v7cXIRvHgae81gDa4uBWH3o6A7z01PcQeRzTifUcpTI/s1600-h/Harmony+Ridge+header+blogspot.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 294px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEVl2s6xdaYuFydwhyphenhyphenHOdkfx853H0OU8k-GcQWH1hOev7rc8TnIHqRvmczhyphenhyphen8xf9MImEeZyhY4RMzcDIiNn1-h3r-NztZy6Al7v7cXIRvHgae81gDa4uBWH3o6A7z01PcQeRzTifUcpTI/s400/Harmony+Ridge+header+blogspot.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5414046014676292034" /></a><br />Progress on an organic farm, at least in the beginning is not always apparent. Some of the most important changes are taking place at or below ground level. Soil amendments and composts catalyze microbial activity and build soil tilth. Cover crops fix nitrogen, crowd out weeds and aerate the soil, while bringing important micronutrients up from the depths. <div>A good portion of our work since our inception in late August has been to build up the soil quality. This is a slow process, but one worth waiting for. Instead of depleting the soil over time by feeding crops we will increase soil fertility over time by feeding the soil. Increasing levels of organic matter increases the soil's holding capacity of nutrients and water, while also increasing it's friability, so the plants produce more with less effort. Although production may not be as great the first year or two on an organic farm, the abundance accumulates over time, until a mostly self-sustaining system takes hold, wherein less inputs are needed to produce more food. This is the idea anyway:)</div><div>So we've shoveled lots of doo. In fact, when all said and done, we'll have moved around 30-35 tons of composted horse manure from the farm next door and incorporated it onto our plots. This in addition to a ton of greensand, a ton of rock phosphate and a couple tons of lime. (Not to mention cover crops, which will be incorporated as added organic matter in early Spring.)</div><div>This soil-building work has been spread out over the last 4 months. There have been some other projects in the making... We've erected 2 greenhouses (one small 12' x 14' that my grandpa and I built and another larger 48' x 30' house built by Puckett Greenhouses of VA) and will be building a barn with the help of Jeff Holderfield of Mount Airy. Our friend Tony Ball of TB Grading has done some nice work "leveling the playing field," allowing us to build these structures. In the process a few mature trees needed to be removed (much to my chagrin), so we've also had a good bit of tree work on our hands. What a job! The upside has been all the firewood. </div><div>In early October I worked with my neighbor Fernando of Shangri-la Farms on rebuilding fencing. They are a horse farm and graze their mares on our property. In order to keep the horses on the property while also make space for planting and building we needed to reorganize. We were able to salvage a lot of material from the old fence and finished the job in a few days time. All that pounding and digging was worth it when I think about all that extra grass I'd need to mow if the horses weren't around. Not to mention the relaxed energy and beauty they bring to the farm.</div><div>November also brought our first food crop planting: garlic. We're trying out mainly softneck varieties, but we threw in some hardnecks and elephants for good measure. The elephant garlic stock I got from Brad Owen of Clove County Farm in Lexington - an interesting operation worth checking out. </div><div>This weekend brings blueberries! We purchased 300 plants this week from Finch Nursery of Bailey, NC which we'll be planting tomorrow (Saturday the 12th). My mouth waters thinking about all those little blue wonders. </div><div>So now that I'm caught up on reporting the goings-on around here, I intend to keep you all informed on a more regular basis. Hold me to it! </div><div>P.S. The picture I provided is what will be our main vegetable field(now planted in rye), wherein I've plopped the logo design I've been working on - let me know what you think...</div><div> </div>K. Isaac Oliverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05466803610949485306noreply@blogger.com0