CR
Crop Talk
The Newsletter of Great Country Farms
April 15, 2015: First Bonus of the Year 
April 2015
Sunflower Logo
The plums and peaches are in  are in bloom!
  













There are so many blossoms that you can smell them from the asparagus field, where purple spears are suddenly emerging.  

Come out to the farm and take a deep breath.

In This Issue
Spinach, Kale, and GCF Membership Cards in the Market

After a period of dormancy in February and March, the spinach and kale we planted in October have started to grow again, so we're offering our first U-pick bonuses this week: one bag of each of those super-greens. Check Barn Talk for a flavor analysis of these early spring treasures.

















Mark's expanding the orchards this week with four new kinds of yellow peaches, which should ripen in successive waves through July and August, and he's adding Pippin, Albemarle, and cider apples to the ten varieties that already grow on the slope below The Stable. And he says the strawberries look fantastic!
Remember...
We've kept your membership card in the market so we can say hello and welcome back the first time you visit the farm this season. Come to the counter to chat with us a minute and pick up your welcome package.

Members Open House
April 25

   We've scheduled a lot of special features for this year's get-to-know-you event:

   Falling Bark Farm will be offering samples of their hickory syrup during the pancake breakfast, Georges Mill Farm will be sampling their artisanal goat cheese, and Spring House Farm will be explaining the benefits of forest-finished meats.

   We'll have a juicing station in the market where you can try recipes from Raw Energy in a Glass, a juicing guide we're featuring this year, and we'll be doing canning demonstrations throughout the day. Plus, Appalachian Outdoor Readiness will be on hand to help you gear up for the outdoor season.

   Come out and get acquainted with your farmers and your fellow members.

Waiting for Superman...

   How would you like to represent Great Country Farms at this weekend's Superhero 5K?

   Proceeds from the race, which is sponsored by the Loudoun County Chamber of Commerce, will support Mobile Hope, a non-profit organization devoted to helping Loudoun County's homeless children.
   As a Chamber of Commerce member, Great Country Farms is eligible to show its support by entering a team of runners. So if you're feeling super, or if you just like to run, let us know as soon as possible. Registration closes April 17.
Featured Partners


Spring House Farm, our meat CSA partner, raises heritage breed pigs in the meadows and forests of northern Loudoun County. One of those breeds is making a significant contribution to diabetes research. Learn more in Barn Talk.

Light and Fresh

  "I m ade this many times as a side dish but tonight I needed a main with what I had on hand (Kale, linguini, onion, garlic and reggiano parmesan). Added more garlic and stock then added the cooked pasta and cheese tossed w/fresh basil at the end. Family said it was yummy and hit the spot!"

Read more here.

 

Farm Market Feature
Come on in...
Upcoming Events
Members Open House  
April 25

Dog Days Bloom Festival
May 2 & 3