As we begin the third week of February, we are finally experiencing some winter weather. This is a good thing here at Hattie’s Garden. Winter weather helps the growth for many plants and crops. Many fruits won’t bloom without a period of vernalization. This allows many fruit trees to know it is spring and time to bloom. Some of our vegetables need the same treatment, such as the garlic we planted in late November.

Another benefit of cold weather is to even out the playing field and make it easier to grow good healthy plants. Cold weather can reduce various pathogens and troublesome insects significantly for us and so we have welcomed this little cold snap.

Our order form for the February 22 delivery/pickup service is now open.

We expect to receive our organic oranges, organic dates and organic figs this week, so if you missed out on them last time, please order them again. If you haven’t tried any of these organic fruits, they are all from California and are excellent. Several customers have noted the oranges were the best they have ever had. The figs are so popular we never have any left and the Medjool dates are of gourmet quality. We hope you enjoy them as much as we do.

Please note you will not see Patty’s Gourmet Food on our order form for a couple of weeks as she gets up and running at her new place in Lewes on Savannah Road. In the meantime, Nancy’s Cafe is adding some things and Jen will bake some delicious savory pot pies and fabulous dessert pies to get you through the cold weather. And Backyard Jams and Jellies is back from vacation and ready to serve. Check their list for over 50 unusual jellies, jams and chutneys!

There’s also plenty of additional products from our other vendors — fresh produce, wild-caught Alaska fish, organic eggs, free range chicken, fresh cheese, wonderful mushrooms, organic bread and more, as we continue to bring you the best food we can find into the remaining winter weeks on Delmarva.

Remember the deadline for ordering is Wednesday at noon. Unfortunately, we won’t normally be able to take late requests, as we must place vendor orders quickly. You will receive an updated reminder on Tuesday, but please order early to be sure you get everything you would like. Supplies are sometimes limited.

Plant CSA

Remember to sign up for your Plant CSA to get plant credits at a 10% discount and help us “tool up” for the season. In addition to our healthy organically grown plants, you may use your credit during the season for our produce and cut flowers.

The Plant CSA model has become an important component of our operation and we appreciate your participation. Advise from Hattie at our plant sales is always free!

Deadline for CSA participation is March 1. Payment is appreciated at your earliest convenience and secures your credits. Full information is on our website.

Yours in the garden,