FARM PROGRESS.

In firing up all cylinders again, the farm ran into a few stumbling blocks with the spring’s crop. These were mainly related to a transition of substrate and format. The farm is moving away from pasteurization and straw production to entirely supplemented sawdust blocks. I always liked the idea of straw. It is what got JMF started and ran with for years. It would honestly be my preference for home growing, but it became laborious to say the least for a small commercial scale. (Maybe garden workshops in the future?) The alternative sawdust blocks have come and gone over time, which helped to learn variety and process.

That being said, there are always things unseen in transitions of any kind. The first few attempts reached pasteurization temperatures. These blocks grew well, only with less vigor than their fully sterilized subsequent neighbors. A few learning curves and float valves later, our spring’s crop is behind the projected schedule, however growth is looking in good shape for the summer season. Streamlining format has proved to be more sustainable for operating, which will show in our product consistency and quality.

A farm, like any business, has a lot of moving parts to all come together. I’m slowly and steadily seeing that come to vision. Week after week, the small progress that has been made seems to be sticking around, providing encouragement to take on what comes next.

All that being said, blues oysters will be coming in for what we have left here in spring. Possibly some more king trumpets too. These two strains are my personal favorites for growing and cooking. I’ll tend the blocks as far as reason and heat allows, and we’ll see them back around in the fall. While the grow houses are insulated and climate controlled, the less fighting of the environment the better.

The lab has a good start on pink oyster blocks for the summertime. Also, the lion’s mane is in very early stages. Space is being filled up and momentum is being nurtured along. Hopeful for a flush season.

Best,

J