The paperwork is flying here at Rumar Farm as we prepare for our 2021 EcoCert and Demeter audit. It is always a little stressful this time of year because not only are we in the thick of harvesting, weeding and other farm tasks but we are also trying to gather all our records, maps, tracking of inputs for both 2020 /2021 and being able to prove we are following all the rules and regulations for organic and biodynamic accreditation. To be certified organic you must be able to farm without the use of pesticides and chemicals while also meeting all COG (Canadian Organic Growers) standards.
What is biodynamic farming? Farms holding the Demeter certification help preserve wildlife and endangered species habitat, they must dedicate a minimum of 10% of their land base as a biodiversity reserve. They measure their farm’s fertility by the ability of their soil to sustain agricultural plant growth by using green manure, crop rotation and planting legumes and nitrogen catch crops. They build their own compost piles with materials from their farm such chipped wood, leaves, plant litter and animal manure. They control disease, insect and weed through plant diversity and planned plantings. Use of mulching and stale bed planting also helps control the weeds. The biggest requirement in biodynamic farming is the use of special preparations that are like healing remedies for the earth.
Here is what you can expect this week:
Raspberries This will be the last week, so please enjoy. If you want to do some freezing or jam, check out our on-line store and stock up.
Carrots A very versatile root vegetable that can be eaten raw, steamed, boiled and our favourite….roasted. After you roast them perhaps try a honey garlic butter glaze. So good! Did you know the carrot tops are edible? Dice and toss into your salad or sprinkle over roasted veggies, Treat like parsley.
Lettuce Mix We started to harvest a new variety of lettuce mix that is simply fantastic. Cant wait to hear how you like it. Very tender and sweet.
Swiss Chard A nutritional powerhouse, sources of vitamins K,A,C and good source of magnesium, potassium, iron and dietary fiber. Add greens to your salad, toss into your next stir fry, soup or omelet. Sauté with olive oil and garlic, or perhaps chili oil. You can even use the large leaves like a tortilla wrap.
Turnip Mix A mix of white and red turnips. You may be familiar with the white Hakurei type, the red variety are a bit unique. These are scarlet skinned globe shaped with beautifully streaks of red and white on the inside.
Garlic Roasted garlic is one of the best things you can make in your toaster oven. In a 400 degree oven you are looking around 45 minutes for the garlic to turn caramelized, soft and spreadable.
Kohlrabi Sampler Also called a German turnip, its a cruciferous vegetable just like cabbage, broccoli or kale. This bulbous vegetable can be eaten raw, cooked or roasted. Add it to your other root vegetables in this basket for a wonderful side dish.
Enjoy.
