Rain is a good thing

Midwest spring is definitely here. And by that, I mean the kind of spring that comes and goes, teasing us with all kinds of weather: warm, blustery, dreary, and rainy with a smattering of snow here and there to keep us guessing. We don’t always realize spring is here but the plants certainly notice the gradually climbing temps and the increase in daylight each day. Recently, our first garlic emerged through their heavy layer of mulch.

We are happy to share that our high tunnel space (an unheated plastic “greenhouse” structure) is full of spring goodness. Inside, we have baby radishes, carrots, beets, lettuce, and green onions. The high tunnel stays above freezing overnight, keeping our little plants happy through the cold spring.

I love working in the tunnel this time of year, doting on our plants, weeding everything a little extra because we still have the time to. It’s always half a season ahead and is definitely the most pleasant place to work on the farm on a rainy day.

But, at the same time, I’m not a very patient person. My mind wanders and I’m always thinking about when we can start planting outside! 😂

Still, it’s been just a little too cold and a little too wet to get our first peas in the ground.

Recently, our friend Jenn reminded me, though, that rain really is a good thing. Up until recently, we were still in a drought. If nothing else, we should be thankful that the ground is receiving the rainfall it needs to recharge.