If you have been following along, you know we have been ready to get out into the field for a while now. The transplants are hardened off. The ground is waiting. And so are we.
But this is Alberta. And farming in Alberta means learning, over and over again, that the weather doesn’t care about your timeline.
So while the rain keeps falling and the fields stay too wet to work, we have been doing what farmers do: we started on another project.
Something New Is Taking Shape Out Back
While the rain has kept us out of the fields transplanting our veggies and cut flowers, Kent and Ty have been busy building something we have long wanted to add to the farm: a new raised bed area, just for you.
This isn’t a behind-the-scenes growing space. It is being built as a customer-facing feature of the farm. Think beautiful raised beds where you can see exactly what’s growing, get inspired for your own garden, and pick up ideas you can take home.
We are hoping to have it finished by the end of June, and we can’t wait to show it to you. Right now, the boards are being painted, and groundwork will start as soon as the ground dries.
We will keep sharing updates as it comes together. Follow along, we think you will enjoy it!
Don’t Wait on the Strawberries
While the field work waits on the weather, the greenhouse is full and ready for you right now.
If there’s one thing we want you to grab this week, it’s strawberries. We have a great selection of everbearing varieties in stock, and in Alberta’s short growing season, timing actually matters here.
Everbearing strawberries produce fruit across the whole season rather than all at once, which means you get that fresh-picked strawberry experience from early summer right through to fall. Plant them, and they will reward you all season long.
They are one of those plants that kids absolutely love. There is something magical about walking out and picking your own strawberries.
We also have a great selection of 6-packs, tomatoes, peppers, and herbs still available. If you have been meaning to come in and fill out your garden, now is a great time. We are well-stocked, and the team is here to help you put it all together.
A Herb Pairing Tip Worth Knowing
Since we are talking plants, here’s one of our favourite things to recommend to gardeners who are still building out their beds this week.
Herbs and tomatoes are a natural pairing, and not just in the kitchen. Basil planted near your tomatoes is said to improve flavour and help deter pests. Parsley and dill attract beneficial insects that prey on garden pests. And chives can help repel aphids, one of the most common nuisances in Alberta gardens.
If you have already picked up tomatoes or peppers from us, consider grabbing a few herb starts to round out your garden. It’s a simple way to garden smarter, and everything you need is right here.
Speaking of Growing Season. Have You Joined the CSA Yet?
If you love the idea of fresh, local vegetables all summer long without the work of a full garden, our CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) program might be exactly what you are looking for.
Sign-ups close June 20th, with first delivery on July 16th. Pickup locations include Ryley, Tofield, Sherwood Park, and right here on the farm.
Spots are limited; if you have been on the fence, now is the time to jump in. Head to mapleparkfarm.com to sign up or get more details.
The Rain Will Stop. It Always Does.
Thirty-plus years of farming will teach you patience whether you want it or not. The fields will dry out. The transplants will go in. And when they do, we will be out there with boots in the soil and smiles on our faces, and we will absolutely be sharing every moment of it.
In the meantime, come see us at the greenhouse. The plants are ready for you, the team is here, and there’s a raised bed project out back that is starting to look pretty great.
See you soon🙂!