From the Farm: Cucumbers, Eggplants and Summer Weed Control

We have experienced some really bountiful production out at the farm over the last few weeks, and we're geared up for a "harvest heavy" summer. We're up to our ears in cucumbers and after a month of steady production, the plants are still looking quite healthy. We have picked close to 5,000 pounds already from less than a quarter acre! So, if you are growing just enough for your family, be mindful of how many cucumbers you set out, or you might just find yourself in the pickle business!

Although it has been extremely dry so far this summer, one of the upsides has been a reduction in insect and disease pressure. It's been a struggle for those who don't have sufficient irrigation, but for those that have a dependable water source, results from the farm have been mostly positive. Rainfall and high humidity typically create an ideal breeding ground for insects and plant disease. We think this is a big factor in the increased longevity we've seen with our squash and cucumber plants this year.
One plant that has shot up faster than a bottle rocket this year (much to our dismay) is Amaranthus palmeri, more commonly referred to as pigweed. While this plant was once cultivated and consumed by Native Americans, it poses a real threat when cultivating other food crops. In an organic system there aren't a lot of great options for weed control, so the best control method is typically diligent monitoring and mechanical or hand cultivation when the plants are still young. To alleviate pressure from these weeds in the summer, you can plant cover crops in areas where you aren't producing. Sunhemp and buckwheat are good "weed suppressing" summer cover crops. For those that have fought the battle and already lost this summer, look on the bright side...at least it's edible. If you can't beat it, join it!
