Snowflakes drift through the air as I write—their soft, ethereal descent earthward a reminder that winter still lingers. Yet, there is a warmth in the air not present just a few weeks ago, the robins have begun to sing again, and the pussy willows are beginning to push forth their first soft, silver catkins. While snow is still blanketing the ground, the world is slowly beginning to awaken. 

Here at the farm, we are also beginning to rouse ourselves and ready for the business of the upcoming season. Crop plans and seed schedules are being checked over one last time as we prepare to begin seeding some of our earliest crops this coming week. Onions, parsley, verbena, snapdragons, and tomatoes will soon be sprouting in our grow room.  Our tomato tunnels are being prepared for planting—we’ve weed whacked down our cover crop and covered it with a silage tarp to help break down the organic matter to reincorporate into the soil. We’ve moved our early crated tulips out of cold storage and they are beginning to grow in leaps and bounds, perhaps giving us some March flowers! The overwintered flowers are also growing happily in the tunnels. Our first bloom of the season, a red Icelandic poppy, graced us just a few days ago. Another reminder that it will not be long until flowers and vegetables are plentiful. 

Perhaps you’re also dreaming of the bounty to come this summer in your own garden. After all, there is perhaps nothing better than stepping out into the yard and plucking a sweet, sun-ripened tomato from the vine. Or meandering through the plants, taking in the delicate beauty of cosmos, the vibrance of zinnias, and soft, feather-like plumes of celosia — selecting a few treasures to cut and adorn a windowsill or dining room table. If you’re in need of inspiration, or looking to add a few more treasures to your garden beds, our bedding plant pre-orders are open until March 15. All of our starts are certified organic and grown with love. 

If you’d like to learn more about how we start our plants from seed, transplant, and crop plan, come to one of our bedding plant classes. We’re offering a Vegetable & Herb Bedding Plant Class on Sunday, May 18th at 11am and Flowers that Flourish: A Bouquet & Bedding Plant Class on Sunday, May 25th at 11am. Participants will be able to take home a 4” pot or 6-pack of their choice to add to their garden, and will also have the opportunity to create a stunning bouquet in our flower class.

We are also excited to add a new class to our spring line-up—Mother’s Day Blooms & Brunch, Sunday May 11th at 11am. Treat the special mother, woman, or other beautiful person in your life to a tour of our enchanting overwinter flower tunnel, create a bouquet using our own cut flowers, and enjoy light brunch fare amidst the serene spring charm of the farm. A wonderful way to honor the maternal presence in your life. 

While we wait for the snow to recede and the verdant cloak to return to our hills, we will be busy sowing seeds, pruning our blueberries, and preparing to welcome you all back to our beloved farmstand on May 10th. Save the date, we can’t wait to see you all! 

Warmest wishes, 

The Rosaly’s Crew