Here's an overview of the crops I try to grow (in somewhat chronological order, left to right by row):
rhubarb
strawberries
spinach
garlic chives
radishes
salad mix
snap peas
watermelon
green onions
black currants
pak choi
sweet onions
beets
carrots
gooseberries
mustards
summer squash
zucchini
lettuce
apples
garlic
cabbage
green beans
potatoes
pears
cherry tomatoes
basil
raspberries
tomatoes
peppers
purslane
kale
dill
sweet potatoes
broccoli
cucumbers
turnips
napa cabbage
cilantro
Not all of these are available each week of course. On average you will receive 5-12 of these each week depending on availability, the time of season, and what is needed to give you what you pay for. I don't always get around to planting all these things each year, but then, sometimes, on impulse, I try to grow something else...at least to give it a try.
I have been growing by the organic method since 1980 and will continue to do so despite the greater labor costs in an organic, labor-intensive operation and the greater likelihood of failure and imperfection. My main concern is with nutritional value and flavor. Organically grown, healthy, tasty food is my goal.
I do not grow commercial varieties that were not bred for flavor. Since I eat my own produce, what would be the point? I enjoy eating; the fact that it is also good for me is an added bonus. I continue to search for "new" and exciting varieties with their own unique flavors. For example, though most people might associate the term "cherry tomato" with salad bars, something to add a bit of color, perhaps…. I grow almost a dozen different varieties of cherry and/or salad tomatoes, each with its own character and unique flavor. Even the lowly beet I grow is sweeter than most other varieties. Then there are the 6 different types of sweet peppers… the raspberries, strawberries & juicy sweet pears that melt in your mouth... the salad mix that is an eating adventure all by itself... and did I mention? ...but you'll have to experience it for yourself.
Check out "A Typical Brackett CSA Share" sequence (by month) to get a good idea of what you'll get. Thanks, Ashley C. and Alexis T.!
