I grew up thinking I didn’t like vegetables. I knew I hated spinach. Spinach came out of a can, was boiled, and plopped on a plate. So many nights I sat at the table after all had left trying to gag that stuff down. It wasn’t till I ventured out on my own, out on a date at a very nice restaurant, when the waiter asked if I wanted a spin-ah-ge salad.. That sounded interesting so I of course said yes! What came was fresh spinach salad, with a bit of olive oil, pine nuts, and some Mandarin orange bits. It was a life altering moment! I realized how great fresh spinach was! Since then we have been loving and enjoying Spinach salads weekly. The thought of the boiled spinach has still tainted my thoughts of “cooked” spinach. Well, 45 years later, I ventured into the “cooked” spinach realm! OK “cooked” is lightly blanched. I heated up some olive oil, added some fresh garlic. As soon as I could smell the garlic I added the fresh spinach and started lightly turning it till it was just starting to wilt down. All I can say is WOW! So fresh and so delicious.
Wish me luck as I try and add my most dreaded childhood memory next, BRUSSELS SPROUTS!
Working from home has greatly improved my work life balance. Instead of spending 2+ hours commuting I can convert that into time in the greenhouse or garden. Instead of burning fuel and wasting resources and revenue driving back and forth to an office, I’m growing plants that provide the best possible nutrition for not only my family but my friends and neighbors. It’s easy to let that extra time slip through your fingers if you are not focused and have a game plan. Spring is coming quickly and if I’m going to have all our starts ready for spring I need to be moving forward everyday!
Lettuce and Herb Seeds
There are a few more things we are needing to get started in the greenhouse. My plans on Sunday were to get the last of my seed starting done. But the best laid plans of mice and men often go awry. We were blessed with having several dear friends drop in to say hi and see the greenhouse. This greenhouse is meant to provide not only food for us and our neighbors but also provide a source of learning for us all. I was more than happy to delay some seeding to share what we have going with good friends.
Last tray of Lettuce started!
Today’s progress was to get the last of the lettuce and herbs started. In this first tray I have Tomatillo’s that will give us the best green enchillada sauce ever! Paris Island, Tom Thumb, Red Salad Bowl, Heritage Iceberg, and Black Seeded Simpson lettuce for our hydroponic tanks.
Herbs for our herb and medicinal garden!
The last tray I got done today was some Catnip/Cat Grass, Parsley, Thyme, Sage, Marjoram, and Oregano. I will be building us an Herb and Medicinal raised bed garden this year!
Make every little moment count added all together they make a big difference!
Parris Island Lettuce
Parris Island Lettuce is a type of romaine lettuce that is widely popular for its crunchy texture and slightly bitter taste. It is named after the location where it was originally cultivated, which is the Marine Corps Recruit Depot located in Parris Island, South Carolina. This lettuce is also known for its high nutritional value, as it is packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber and minerals.
Parris Island Lettuce has elongated, dark green leaves that form a long head. The leaves are crisp and have a slightly ribbed texture. They are perfect for salads and sandwiches, and can also be grilled or roasted for a unique flavor. This lettuce is very versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes, making it a popular choice in many kitchens.
Parris Island Lettuce
Tom Thumb Lettuce
Tom Thumb Lettuce is a type of heirloom lettuce that has been grown for over 150 years. It is known for its small size and delicate, tender leaves. It is named after the popular English fairy tale character, Tom Thumb, who was known for his small size. This lettuce is also sometimes referred to as ‘Merveille de Quatre Saisons,’ which translates to ‘Marvel of Four Seasons.’
Tom Thumb Lettuce forms a small, compact head that is perfect for individual servings or as a garnish. The leaves are soft and tender, with a slightly sweet flavor. This lettuce is best eaten fresh and is perfect for salads or sandwiches. It is also a popular choice for decorative purposes due to its small size and attractive appearance.
Tom Thumb Lettuce
Red Salad Bowl Lettuce
Red Salad Bowl Lettuce is a type of loose-leaf lettuce that is known for its deep red color and slightly bitter taste. It is a popular choice for salads due to its attractive appearance and unique flavor. This lettuce is also highly nutritious, as it is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber and minerals.
Red Salad Bowl Lettuce forms loose, frilly leaves that are deeply lobed and have a slightly crunchy texture. The leaves are bright red in color and are perfect for adding a pop of color to salads and sandwiches. This lettuce is very versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes, making it a popular choice in many kitchens.
Red Salad Bowl Lettuce
Heritage Iceberg Lettuce
Heritage Iceberg Lettuce is a type of iceberg lettuce that is known for its large size and crispy texture. It is named after its historical significance, as it is one of the oldest types of lettuce that has been grown in the United States. This lettuce is also known for its high nutritional value, as it is packed with vitamins A and K, as well as fiber and minerals.
Heritage Iceberg Lettuce forms a large, tight head that is perfect for chopping and using in salads or on sandwiches. The leaves are crunchy and have a mild, slightly sweet taste. This lettuce is also a popular choice for grilling and roasting, as it holds its shape and flavor well when cooked.
Heritage Iceberg Lettuce
Black Seeded Simpson Lettuce
Black Seeded Simpson Lettuce is a type of loose-leaf lettuce that is known for its delicate, tender leaves and mild, sweet flavor. It is one of the oldest types of lettuce that has been grown in the United States, and it is named after the man who first cultivated it, a farmer named Simpson. This lettuce is also highly nutritious, as it is packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber and minerals.
Black Seeded Simpson Lettuce forms loose, frilly leaves that are light green in color and have a slightly crunchy texture. The leaves are perfect for salads and sandwiches, and can also be used as a garnish or in
cooked dishes. The leaves of this lettuce are very tender and delicate, which makes them ideal for use in wraps or as a substitute for tortillas.
One unique feature of Black Seeded Simpson Lettuce is its black seeds, which contrast with the light green color of the leaves. The seeds are tiny and easy to miss, but they are an important part of the lettuce’s history and heritage. This lettuce has been grown for over a century and is considered a classic American variety.
In summary, each of these lettuces has unique features and characteristics that make them popular choices for different types of dishes. Paris Island Lettuce is known for its crunchy texture and high nutritional value, while Tom Thumb Lettuce is appreciated for its small size and delicate leaves. Red Salad Bowl Lettuce adds a pop of color and a slightly bitter taste to salads, while Heritage Iceberg Lettuce is perfect for chopping and using in a variety of dishes. Finally, Black Seeded Simpson Lettuce is a classic American variety with delicate, tender leaves and distinctive black seeds.
In the past I posted to Facebook all the things I was doing in the greenhouse and around the farm, as much for my historical records as it was for sharing. As I move away from Facebook I created this blog for the same reason. I’ll be posting lots of seemingly random things but its for my records on where things were on any give day. I hope you find something to brighten your day in them as well.
Feb 13, 2023 Snow!Icy Snow and Sunshine outside, Balmy Inside!Atlantic Pumpkin and PeasRed and Green CabbageSweety and Delicious Tomato SeedlingsMarglobe Tomato SeedlingsBonnie Best Tomato SeedlingsOur Favorites, San Marzano Tomato Seedlings!
Hydroponics is a method of growing plants like spinach without soil. Instead of soil, hydroponic systems use nutrient-rich water solutions to provide the necessary nutrients to the plants. There are many advantages to growing spinach hydroponically, including faster growth rates, higher yields, and reduced water usage. Spinach is a particularly good plant to grow using hydroponics for several reasons.
Kratky Method Spinach
How long does spinach take to grow hydroponically?
First, spinach has a relatively short growth cycle, which makes it an ideal crop for hydroponic systems. Spinach can be harvested as early as 30 days after planting, which means that hydroponic growers can turn over crops quickly and continuously throughout the year. This allows for a more consistent supply of fresh spinach, which is a valuable commodity for grocery stores and restaurants.
Does spinach grow well hydroponically?
Second, spinach is a leafy green vegetable, which means that it has a relatively small root system compared to other crops. This makes it well-suited for hydroponic systems, which typically use smaller containers and less growing media than traditional soil-based systems. The smaller root system also makes it easier to maintain nutrient levels in the water, as there is less competition for resources.
Third, spinach is a heavy feeder, which means that it requires a lot of nutrients to grow. Hydroponic systems are able to provide these nutrients in a more efficient and precise manner than soil-based systems. In a hydroponic system, the nutrient solution is delivered directly to the roots of the plants, which allows for more rapid uptake of nutrients. This can result in faster growth rates and higher yields.
Kratky Method Spinach in IBC hydroponic tanks
How do you grow spinach in hydroponic water?
Fourth, hydroponic systems offer better control over growing conditions, which can be particularly important for spinach. Spinach grows best in cool temperatures and can be difficult to grow in hot, dry conditions. Hydroponic growers can control the temperature, humidity, and light levels in their systems to provide optimal growing conditions for spinach. They can also control the nutrient levels in the water to ensure that the plants have everything they need to thrive.
Adding Hydroponic Nutrient Solution to the IBC Tanks
Fifth, hydroponic systems are more efficient in their use of water than traditional soil-based systems. In a hydroponic system, water is recirculated through the system, which means that less water is needed overall. This is particularly important in areas with limited water resources, where hydroponic systems can help to conserve water while still producing high yields of fresh produce.
In conclusion, spinach is an ideal crop for hydroponic systems for several reasons. Its short growth cycle, small root system, heavy nutrient requirements, and need for precise growing conditions make it well-suited for hydroponic production. Hydroponic systems also offer the advantage of being more water-efficient than traditional soil-based systems, which is particularly important in areas with limited water resources. Overall, hydroponic production of spinach is a promising approach to meeting the growing demand for fresh, healthy produce.
Our new 1020 seeding trays, inserts and humidity domes are here!
When we first started doing our own seed starting, like everyone, we went and bought the Jiffy seed starter trays and pots. They were inexpensive and did the trick, or so we thought. The next year when we pulled them out to reuse they were in pretty poor shape. The linings of the plastic seed cells is so thin that most had cracked at best were pretty scrunched up. Well no worries, we’ll use them and get a few more, their cheap right? That process repeated over the next few years and our collection of cheap barely reusable Jiffy trays grew. Some from the original purchase were no longer usable. Not only had the cell walls split, but the trays cracked and would not hold water or support the cells. Also the lids cracked and got weak and barely functioned.
Common Jiffy Seed Starting Kit
Heading into our forth year of seed starting, I started really investigating options for sturdy reusable seed trays. I learned a lot including that they were called a 1020 tray. That got me on the right track. I then found trays labeled as heavy duty, extra heavy duty and mega heavy duty! I also found the 6 cell tray inserts that are made of the same material. They make heavy duty clear lids too! Some lids have tall domes with humidity vents.
Last year I did the math on what I’ve used in the past and what I was looking at buying in the future. The Jiffy trays and lids run between $8 to $13 a piece depending on where you buy the trays. Lets just say $9. I’ve probably bought 10 in the last 5 years and at this point they are all pretty much useless. I’d need to buy 10 more since my garden has expanded. And in a few years I’d need 10 more, and so on just to have 10 on hand for use. In this real example I’d be looking at spending $300 and would have been dealing with junk year after year and ended up with nothing in the end.
I opted to buy the best 1020 trays, cell inserts and lids I could reasonably find that if taken care of would last for years and years if not for the duration of my gardening life. I probably spent $35 – $50 on 10 heavy duty trays. Then I spend another $35 to $50 on the 120 6 cell tray inserts needed to fill 10 trays. Finally I bought the 10 clear lids which are also heavy duty to cover the 1020 seed trays. I think in total, with free shipping I was out under $200. What I got in return was 10 trays, cells and lids that would last and last and provide year after year of beautiful seedlings for our garden. I think this lesson I learned transcends into every aspect of life and gardening. There is nothing cheap about buying cheap! Spend your money wisely and buy the best quality you can afford. You’ll save a lot more in the long run!
I’m going to follow this article up with a video and write up comparing the types of 1020 seeding trays available and what my experience and opinion is on them! Stay Tuned!!
We are trying our Lincoln and Oregon Sugar Pod peas in our hydroponic barrels. I started the pea seeds in doors on Jan 22nd, 2023, just short of 3 weeks ago and today I moved them to their new home in our 55 gallon blue hydroponic barrels. From here I will string them up and they will have all the nutrient rich water they will need. I am using the Kratky Method like we do with our Spinach, lettuce and other greens. This will be our first try at hydroponic peas!
Lincoln Peas in our Kratky Method Barrels!
Lincoln Peas and Oregon Sugar Pod II Peas are two popular varieties of garden peas that are grown for their sweet and tasty pods.
Lincoln Peas are an heirloom variety of pea that was first developed in the early 1800s. They are a tall, vining plant that grows up to 6 feet in height, with large, bright green leaves. The pods are typically 4-5 inches long and are a deep green color. The peas inside are medium-sized, round, and sweet, with a crunchy texture. They are a popular choice for gardeners, as they are easy to grow, produce a high yield, and are versatile in the kitchen. Lincoln Peas are most often used in salads and stir-fries, but they can also be used in soups, stews, and other dishes.
Oregon Sugar Pod Peas in Kratky Method Barrels
Oregon Sugar Pod II Peas, on the other hand, are a modern hybrid variety that was first introduced in the late 1900s. They are a compact, bushy plant that grows to a height of 2-3 feet, with smaller leaves than the Lincoln Pea. The pods are shorter, at 2-3 inches, but are still a bright green color. The peas inside are small, sweet, and crunchy, and they are packed with flavor. Oregon Sugar Pod II Peas are a popular choice for gardeners, as they are very easy to grow and produce a high yield. They are also very versatile in the kitchen, and are most often used in salads and stir-fries, but can also be used in soups, stews, and other dishes.
Both Lincoln Peas and Oregon Sugar Pod II Peas are easy to grow and maintain, and they are ideal for gardeners of all levels of experience. They are most commonly grown from seed, and they can be planted directly in the garden or started indoors and then transplanted. They prefer a well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter, and they should be watered regularly to keep the soil moist. They also do well in full sun, but they can tolerate some shade.
If you are looking for a sweet, crunchy, and healthy addition to your garden, then consider growing Lincoln Peas or Oregon Sugar Pod II Peas.
I use this blog as way to keep track of times and events for reference later in the year and years to come. This Sunday afternoon was spent cleaning out the remaining unused seeding trays, making fresh seeding soil mix and seeding up 8 more trays. I have found that making your own seeding soil is not only easy but a fraction of the cost of bagged seed starting mix. There are lots of great DIY seeding mix recipes but I have found that a 3:1 or 2:1 mix of Peat Moss / Perlite does well keeping the soil moist but also keeping it draining well. I mix it with water and let it soak. The right mixture is when it clumps nicely when you ball it up in your hand but it is not drenched.
Making our own seeding soil
First up was our favorite heirloom tomatoes!
San Marzano
San Marzano tomatoes are a type of Italian plum tomato known for their sweet and slightly tangy flavor, meaty texture, and low acidity. They are prized by chefs and are commonly used in Italian cuisine, especially in tomato sauces for pasta dishes. San Marzano tomatoes are long and cylindrical with a slightly pointed end and a bright red color. They are considered to be sweeter and less acidic than other varieties of plum tomatoes, and are grown in the volcanic soil near Mount Vesuvius in Italy. These make up half of the tomatoes we grow. Perfect for sauce and sun dried tomatoes!
Mariglobe
Mariglobe tomatoes are a variety of tomato known for their juicy, sweet flavor and high sugar content. They are medium to large in size, round, and have a bright red color. They are often used for slicing and eating fresh, as well as in salads and sandwiches. Mariglobe tomatoes are known for their high yield and are often grown commercially due to their ability to withstand shipping and handling. They are also popular among home gardeners due to their relatively low maintenance and resistance to common tomato plant diseases. Mariglobe tomatoes are prized for their sweet, juicy flavor and versatility in cooking and are a popular choice for many gardeners and chefs.
Bonnie Best
Bonnie Best tomatoes are a variety of tomato known for their high yields and delicious flavor. They are medium to large in size, round, and have a bright red color. They are popular among home gardeners for their easy-to-grow nature and resistance to common tomato plant diseases. Bonnie Best tomatoes are often used for slicing and eating fresh, as well as in salads and sandwiches. They are known for their sweet, juicy flavor and are a popular choice for those looking for a tasty tomato variety to grow in their home garden. Additionally, Bonnie Best tomatoes are highly productive and provide a steady supply of tomatoes throughout the growing season.
Sweety
Sweety cherry tomatoes are a variety of cherry tomato known for their sweet, juicy flavor and bright yellow color. They are small in size, typically around 1 inch in diameter, and have a round shape. They are often used for snacking, in salads, and as a garnish due to their sweet taste and bright color. Sweety cherry tomatoes are popular among home gardeners and are easy to grow, producing large yields and maturing early in the season. They are also a good source of vitamins and antioxidants, making them a healthy addition to any diet. Sweety cherry tomatoes are prized for their sweet flavor, attractive color, and ease of growth, making them a popular choice for both home gardeners and commercial farmers.
Delicious
These guys are monsters! Have had them well over 1lb! Delicious tomatoes are a variety of tomato known for their large size and sweet, juicy flavor. They are round in shape and have a bright red color, often weighing up to a pound or more. They are often used for slicing and eating fresh, as well as in salads and sandwiches. Delicious tomatoes are popular among home gardeners for their easy-to-grow nature and resistance to common tomato plant diseases. They are also prized by commercial growers for their large size and high yield.
February is a great month to start seeds indoors in zone 8 because it provides enough time for the seedlings to grow and mature before being transplanted outside once the danger of frost has passed.
Starting seeds indoors in February allows the seedlings to receive the ideal conditions for germination and growth, including adequate light, warmth, and moisture, without having to worry about weather conditions. This controlled environment also allows for more precise control over the growing conditions, making it easier to provide the seedlings with the best possible start.
Additionally, starting seeds indoors in February allows you to get a jump start on the growing season, which is especially important in zone 8 where the growing season is relatively short. By the time the seedlings are ready to be transplanted outside, the soil will have had time to warm up and the weather will be more conducive to successful transplanting.
We get asked a lot of questions on the system we use for our hydroponics. I’ll be writing and documenting things as we go. I’m also starting a FAQ page with common questions on the Kratky Method.
Visit our FAQ pageStarting some new lettuce using our Kratky method IBC tanks
We have had another round of cold nights in the low 20’s and teens. Since our greenhouse is not yet heated its been a struggle to keep things from freezing. But the spinach has not only survived but seems super happy! This is the spinach we planted back in August of 2022 and have been eating and sharing with neighbors since September! We pick off the bigger leaves and let the younger leaves grow. Pick… Eat.. Repeat!! We had lettuce in that back tank but it was harder to keep it happy in the low temps and I think it plain lived out its lifespan. I removed all the lettuce from that tank and moved the spinach over from the other tank to consolidate and make it easier to keep warm on nights below freezing.
The Kratky Method lettuce is done, time to start over 🙂
I had some rigid foam for future hydroponic tanks that I used to create a warm box to protect the spinach during the night. Added a heat lamp in to keep it above freezing. It’s not ideal but it worked in a pinch! Our 10 day forecast is back to normal Pacific Northwest mild rain.. Spring is coming soon!
