BGF NEWS - January 2023 - VOL. XLIX, NO. 3

WHAT’S UP ON THE FARM?

Precipitation in the past month: Rain: 0.95"

                                                           Snow: 5.50"

Happy new year from all of us at Blue Gate Farm! 

Xander rules the seed stock

The seed orders are rolling in (SO MANY SEEDS) 

and the farmer meeting and conference season has begun. Such is the way of January on the farm.

I feel like we've been pretty lucky with the weather so far this year and we've really appreciated the added moisture. However, as I write this we are headed for below zero temps, but again, such is the way of January! 

Bring on the snax!

The animals aren't too bothered with the weather, the alpacas are well bedded in their shed and have recently been getting extra snacks, thanks to our "Paca Snack" campaign for returning CSA members. Sky has a cozy insulated doghouse and as you can see, the "farm" cats are spending a fair amount of time in the house. 

Seed starting season will begin in about 2 weeks with the onion, shallot and scallion crops as well as some assorted herbs and flowers. Then in March, things will really get crazy! We are growing a few new things this year that we are pretty excited about, including a few new tomato varieties, a whole lineup of new cucumbers, a traditional green celery, a couple of new sweet peppers and some new lettuce varieties. Plus a  BUNCH of new flowers for our VegEmail bouquets.

VegEmail deliveries continue on the winter schedule of every other Tuesday in Des Moines at Peace Tree-Des Moines Branch and in Knoxville at the Grand Theater. We will continue to do these sales every two weeks until the first of May.

Our next delivery is Tuesday, 2/14 and the order form will go out on 2/8 at 5pm. If you aren't receiving the VegEmail order form and you would like to, just fill out the form here: VegEmail.

CSA 2023: 

Signup season is here! CSA members from 2022 have just a few more days to reserve their places for the upcoming season. Here's the link for our veterans: CSA 2023 Signup. Starting February 1 any remaining spots will be offered to our waiting list. If you aren't a CSA member but are interested, here's where to find details: CSA Info. Or email us with any questions.

Is a monthly newsletter not enough for you? Do you want to read more about our life on the farm and see more pictures? Follow us on Facebook at or on Instagram at bluegatefarmfresh. CSA members can also connect with other BGF members to share recipes or ask questions on our FB community page at Blue Gate Farm Community.

That's about it for now. If you have any questions or comments, be sure to let us know.

Best from the farm,

Jill & Sean (and the whole BGF crew)