The latest good weather report is that 1.1 inches of rain fell on Sola Gratia Farm last Saturday -- a good start, although we certainly need more. Dex tells me that bush beans, cucumbers, summer squash, zucchini, beets and Swiss chard were harvested last week. This week we have much the same with no beets and the addition of cherry tomatoes and carrots.

Speaking of beets: for those of you who have some left over, following is an article from NPR.org about learning to love them, including recipes. http://www.npr.org/2012/07/11/156370570/making-the-case-for-beets?ft=3&f=111787346&sc=nl&cc=es-20120715 

Last week I spoke with someone from the East Central Illinois Food Bank, who advised that, as of July 10^th, Sola Gratia has donated 1,411 pounds of produce to local agencies who serve residents in need.  We’re on our way to donating a TON of vegetables – fresh from the field – to the Food Bank.  Our grateful thanks to all who have contributed in time and funds toward making generous donations to the Food Bank a reality.

Until next week,

Elizabeth Weathers

Farm Updates 7-13-12

 Sola Gratia Farm is in full bloom!

This year’s spring season was warmer and dryer than usual, which led to an initial late harvest of several crops.  To more fully take advantage of the precipitation we do receive, drip tape was installed in late April, which diverts moisture from furrows directly onto the plant. Since the tape was put down there has been a resurgence in plant growth, but heat and lack of rain has put harvest behind by nearly two weeks.  Conditions are still quite dry in the field; however, we’re getting by due to timing of plantings, planting preparations and irrigation.

Crops have been abundant, and thus far distribution has gone well. Several crops have been distributed, including arugula, spinach, lettuces, beets, radishes, turnips, and sugar snap. We are currently harvesting more beets, radishes and mixed lettuces, as well as romaine lettuce, cucumbers, spinach, carrots and Swiss chard.  Next up:  bush beans, summer squash and cherry tomatoes.

We are fortunate to have sold 75 total shares, including roughly 60 half shares and 35 full shares, and we have applied for an educational grant, which will increase the share total by five. CSA shareholders pick up produce at the farm behind St. Matthew’s Church on Philo Road every Tuesday (half shares) and Fridays (full shares) from 3-6 p.m.  The Food Bank retrieves their 20 percent share every Monday and Wednesday.

Distribution is determined by what and how much is available. Forty-five-plus crops will be sown and reaped this year.  The harvest season will run from early May through early November when crops such as winter squash, pumpkins, cabbage, kale and collards will be ready for picking.

What to do with cabbage and kale?  St. Matthew’s hopes to offer classes on how to prepare fresh produce. All are welcome to attend these classes – and, please, bring plenty of questions for the chef.

There are several opportunities to volunteer in the field every week.  Following is a list of the times when workers would be most welcome to lend a hand:

Harvest

Tuesday and Friday mornings, 5:30-9 a.m.