Wednesday, March 28, 2012

What’s Happening: March 2012


Spring!
It’s spring in the Ozarks, and all of us are loving it.  The days have been sunny and warm (warm enough to jump in the creek for many of us), and winter is far behind us. The Ozarks are vibrant and alive with plant and animal life.  Chickweed, toothwort, trout lily, plantain, wood sorrel, dandelion, cress, wild grape, and violet are just a few favorite wild edibles popping up in abundance this time of year.  Many trees and smaller plants have already begun to flower, with our many dogwoods and red buds putting on a brilliant show of spring color.


Garden
Our gardens are looking better every year, and this year’s gardens are definitely a sight to behold.  Our garden beds are planted with garlic, onions, potatoes, sweet potatoes, carrots, broccoli, rhubarb, cucumbers, strawberries, greens, and more. Tomatoes, melons, peppers, and other warm season plants are still cozy and warm in our greenhouse.  Seedlings of healing herbs such as chamomile, calendula, milk thistle, lemon balm, valerian, and echinacea are being lovingly cared for in our gardens and greenhouse.


Goats
Nine baby goats were born in our goat barn this month.  The births were assisted by dedicated East Winders, and the new babies and playing and running around already.  Our dairy program is able to provide more and more milk, and we hope to stop purchasing milk in the near future.