"Every year is notable for something. This one may well be remembered as the year of the weeds. When Mark taught agriculture in Venezuela he was known as el diablo de las malezas – the Weed Devil. He can absolutely wear you out talking about the fine points of weed control. Out … [Read more...] about Essex Farm: Weed Control
Agriculture In and Around Essex, NY
Recognizing Late Blight
Late blight is a plant disease that mainly attacks potatoes and tomatoes, although it can sometimes be found on other crops, weeds and ornamentals in the same (Solanaceae) botanical family (New York State Integrated Pest Management Program). This disease is a water mold, and so … [Read more...] about Recognizing Late Blight
Full and By Farm: Thinking Ahead
I am reminded of the first spring flush of grass right now—bright, vibrant and growing by the day. The cattle are happily grazing out in the fields again and we began mowing our second cutting of hay yesterday. The vegetables, so stifled by the hot, baked ground, were unable to … [Read more...] about Full and By Farm: Thinking Ahead
Full and By Farm: Only Good News
It's a sheer delight to walk out into wet soil. Everything seems to be standing a little taller and happier after the rain from the past week. The pastures are greening back up and there is even talk of a second cutting of hay coming soon. Beating Back the Blight So far the … [Read more...] about Full and By Farm: Only Good News
Essex Farm: Wagons of Tomatoes
"Let’s do it inverted-pyramid style today, most important news first. It’s tomato week. I mean, the biggest tomato harvest we’ve ever seen on Essex Farm. There are wagons of luscious, fire-engine red fruits laid out at the pavilion as I type. They are both plentiful and … [Read more...] about Essex Farm: Wagons of Tomatoes