Please reference google page or website for operating hours
GROWING METHODS
01
Deep Tillage
Ripping the ground deep loosens soil to prepare for the bed making process. Most small plows do not plow deep enough into the ground for this. Thankfully we were able to borrow some heavier equipment from friends and family to get the job done.
02
Fertilize
We soil test and apply the needed nutrients to the field. The main inputs in the mix are Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Potassium and Sulphur. Other amendments such as Calcium and Lime are needed when the PH is beyond the needed range for the crop.
03
Finish Plow
A final pass with a finish plow incorporates the fertilizer into the ground and breaks up any large dirt clods. Finer soil particles in the sandy loam field are helpful when making the beds later on in the process.
04
Make Beds
We use a specialized machine, a Rain-Flo 2670 Bed/Plastic Layer to make the beds. This machine allows us to form 9” tall beds to help with water drainage and root development in the strawberry plants.
05
Lay Plastic
The final step in bed formation is laying the plastic and drip tape. The machine unrolls the plastic mulch with a water line underneath. A bed press keep air out and the beds flush with the ground. This is the toughest part of the process and usually takes 2-3 days and 1-2 extra hands.
06
Plant
Plant week is the most critically timed task of our year. Soil and air temperatures must be observed while waiting for the perfect time to plant. The success of the spring crop relies heavily on planting success. We employ 2 crews and plant from dawn to dusk for about 5 days in order to get the plants in the ground in a timely fashion.