Blaine's Farm

In addition to the tomatoes we grow in the greenhouse, we also grow English cucumbers,

and colored bell peppers.  We also grow a variety of specialty gourmet produce in the field

that is unique at farmers' markets.  The following is a list of what we plan to grow this

season:

• Arugula
  
• Beets (Red, Yellow)
  
• Bok Choi
  
• Charentais Melon (French Cantaloupe)
  
• Cut Flowers
  
• Cilantro
  
• Carrots
  
• Edamame
  
• Eggplant
  
• Kale
  
• Herbs
  
• Lettuce and Asian Greens
  
• Leeks
  
• Lunchbox peppers
  
• Onions (Red, White)
  
• Poblano peppers
  
• Potatoes 
  
• Radish
  
• Spinach
  
• Squash
  
• Swiss Chard
  
• Okra
  
• Shallots
  
• Watermelon
  

Field production uses drip lines to irrigate the crops.  This method has many advantages to traditional flood and furrow irrigation.  First, it saves water by applying the needed moisture to the rooting area. Second, all additional nutrients that the plants require can be applied to the root zone, eliminating the need to broadcast the fertilizer across the entire field, therefore reducing the fertilizer usage.  Third, localized water reduces weeds in unwanted areas.  Soil samples are taken on the soil prior to planting, and sent to a lab to determine the nutrient needs of the plants.  Since the soil in our area is low in organic matter, he soil is amended each year, by incorporating organic matter. Improving the overall health and quality of the soil and plants. Plastic mulch is used in the plant bed to reduce the weed pressure.  Some crops can be grown under plastic mulch, and some can't.  


Predatory insects like ladybugs, and natural biological products like garlic oil control insect pests. Blaine frowns upon harsh chemical pesticides.  It is surprising how many predatory insects, natural occurring elements, and soil microbes are out there to help your plants combat the "bad bugs".  Introducing these products is sometimes needed if resident populations of either "good bugs" or "bad bugs" change drastically.