July 8, 2020

The heat is on and we are waiting for the monsoons. We’ve had a few teases, but we are hoping the real thing will be here soon! As the fields surrounding local farms have dried out, the critters have started moving in. Squirrels, rabbits, chipmunks, and gophers love munching on cucumbers shoots, young lettuce, and all the other delicious tender plants we also enjoy. It happens every year and there is always a certain amount of sharing that has to happen, but let’s hope the rain arrives soon to give those little critters some food of their own.

Some of you may be wondering where all the fruit is this season. After two excellent years of abundant fruit crops, the trees and bushes are taking the year off. The late frost we mentioned at the beginning of the season wiped out much of the local fruit crops in Sedona and the Verde Valley, including blackberries, apricots, peaches, and plums. We are looking forward to late peaches and apples, but unfortunately we won’t get to enjoy the early summer fruits this year.

As you all know, Arizona is currently at the epicenter of the coronavirus pandemic. Moving forward, we ask that all shareholders wear a mask when picking up their shares. We appreciate your help protecting our volunteers and other shareholders (and, in Sedona, complying with the City’s mask mandate). Thank you!

Payments for the second half of the season are due on July 22nd. We will be sending out payment reminders later this week for those of you paying in two installments.

Have a lovely week!
Meghan

What’s in your basket – July 8th

Basil – Willowbrook Farm
Beets – Whipstone Farm
Carrots – Whipstone Farm
Cherry tomatoes – Willowbrook Farm

Cucumbers – Fasteen Farms
Salad mix – Willowbrook Farm
Summer squash – Willowbrook Farm
Swiss chard – Whipstone Farm

Bees love the blooming shishito pepper plants.

Eggplant looking gorgeous and coming soon!

This year’s kale forest at Willowbrook Farm.

Cherry tomatoes are here!!