Locally Grown Column

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O’Brien Nurserymen, Wells Road

We like to say the month of May doesn’t exist, because all we do is work, sleep, and enjoy the beauty! As a gardener it is the best month of the year. Early in the month the subtle epimediums flower their heads off. We love these tough, dependable, long-lived plants that feature special foliage, delicate bishop cap flowers and even fall color. When we hear Japanese maple, we think fall color. Yet many varieties of Acer palmatum and Acer japonicum feature awesome spring color. Come visit on one of our open garden weekends so we can show you the diverse selection of maples we offer.

Maple View Farm, Salmon Brook Street

May finds us back in full production: horses, goats, cows, pigs and chickens are all enjoying the fresh air and green pastures on our farm. We’re started some cooler weather crops outside already: kale, lettuce, peas and we’re ready to get the good stuff outside: tomatoes, cucumbers, flowers and herbs all have been getting a start inside, just waiting for warm weather. Look for some of our veggie and herb offerings in our farm store and at the Simsbury Farmer’s Market this season.

Sepe Farm/Pirro Farm, Broad Hill Road

Shearing season is almost done, which means we have some beautiful fleeces that will spend the summer becoming wool blankets. Are you looking for a one-of-a-kind wedding gift for a special couple? Look no further than www.SepeFarm.com, where you can see our selection of Connecticut grown wool blankets and sheepskins. Order online or give us a call.

And now that spring is here, we’re well on our way to grilling season! Make sure you’re ready by ordering your whole or half lamb right from the farm. When you order this way, you get to choose your favorite cuts, whether it’s chops, roasts, or ground lamb. And don’t forget, a half lamb easily fits in two grocery bags, so you don’t need to get an extra freezer to store it. Limited on room? Buy a half lamb and split it with a friend!

Lost Acres Vineyard, Lost Acres Road

Spring is in full swing and we are approaching bud break, one of the most exciting times in the vineyard. Officially, vintage 2015 is moving right along on schedule, though as you can guess, it is a bit early to say much about this new vintage. Like all farmers, we are nervous about the new growth on the vines at a time when spring frost is a constant threat.

Many think that harvest is the busiest time in the fields but spring also has the vineyard crew very busy working to finish pruning and tie the canes of each vine to the trellis. This ensures that growth of each vine is most productive during the year.