Hello, March! The Latest News from Farm & Larder and Bella Luna Farms

After the historic series of snowstorms in February and over two feet of snow here at the farm, we are greeting the arrival of March with extra enthusiasm this year as we hope this month will bring an end to the snow and just perhaps the beginnings of some more spring-like weather! (The past few sunny days, along with blooming hellebores, crocus and snowdrops, sure have helped boost our mood.)

As you all know, the snow made for a challenging February for both ourselves and the neighboring farms. We so appreciate your patience and understanding as we had to cancel several deliveries this month—what an unprecedented event! Though there is still plenty of snow piled up in spots here at Bella Luna Farms, life seems to be slowly inching back to normal as we are getting to spend time working outdoors in the sun, and thus the gardens, each day. We are so excited to be start deliveries back up this week!

Being snowbound has given us extra time to prep and plan and we are eagerly awaiting the time when the gardens awaken from their winter slumber: Seeds are just starting to grow in the greenhouse and the new pea and kale starts have already taken root, as have the onion sets and leeks. Later this month the spring peas and onions will be planted outdoors under row covers, and we hope to begin harvesting our first crops of flavorful baby spring greens from the hoop house in a few weeks. By the end of the month, if it is warm enough for new growth, we should also see the first signs of watercress!

Plans are also accelerating in the gardens we care for away from the farm; our gardening and landscaping company, Parterre, has been busy planning and pruning for our clients across the Puget Sound. Spring is a busy time as we design and install both food and ornamental gardens, and also incorporate edibles into existing landscapes. Creating visual interest by combining bright, vibrant blooms and other ornamentals with such edibles as pea towers, herbs and even edible flowers can give a garden a fresh new look and appeal. Every tree, shrub and stone is thoughtfully hand-selected and each garden we design is a unique and personal creation for our clients—it so gratifying to see each one come to life in the spring and summer especially after an especially snowy cold spell like the one we just had!

As the days continue to lengthen and the sun warms us both body and soul as we work in the garden, we look forward to bidding adieu to winter in favor of spring and all the fresh and bright flavors it provides. To spring—and beyond!