We’ve hit the tipping point here where we’re all eating and sleeping the flower bounty. Because we had big plans to move to a larger property last fall and scale up our micro farm, I started double the amount of plants to ensure an abundant spring. When our dream farm fell through, we were left with the decision to either plant everything I had started or pitch a bunch of them.
Well, I’m terrible at tossing plants, so in they went, all 12,000 ranunculus, 2,000 icelandic poppies, 3,000 anemones, plus countless biennials and other specialty goodies for the book. I knew this route would make for a crazy spring but neither Chris or I were prepared for how crazy it really would be fitting the abundant harvest around also writing a book, preparing for 6 workshops, manning the in-box while our office manager went on maternity leave and a few other very exciting and very massive side projects that we’re trying to bring to life.
Each morning I have to consciously sit and breathe, repeating, “everything is actually ok, we can do this, I don’t have to know how I just have to keep trying my best”. Some days it works, some days I freak out and yell at Chris for no reason other than I feel beyond overloaded. He has the patience of a saint.
With so darn many plants, we ran out of greenhouse space this fall. So in an effort to get everything in the ground on time and also do a little experimenting, we planted about 75% of our anemones under low caterpillar tunnels. So far we’re pretty pleased with the results.
While only about half as productive as the hoop house plants (so far), due to tons of vole damage, it’s good to know this is a viable option. I’ve gotten notes from north eastern growers, who went through that crazy winter, reporting their anemones under low caterpillar tunnels came through and are starting to finally flower. What a resilient little plant!
We get lots of emails asking how on earth we juggle it all. I’ll tell you, it’s not easy. Some weeks we fail miserably and end up working late into the night bunching flowers and packing orders because unexpected things needed our attention during daylight hours. I hate to admit it but more than once last week we finally staggered inside after 10:00pm because there was no other way that we could see to get everything done.
Earlier this winter I vowed that this spring would be different, that we’d achieve that elusive “balance” that all of the self help/business books I read talk about. Well, we’re sure trying but it feels a million miles away. Tomorrow our badass harvest helper Marlee returns which should help lighten the load immensely. Until then, I just need to breathe.
How about you? Are you entering into the crazy zone too or are you managing to stay ahead of the curve? I’d love to know any of your tips or tricks for maintaining your sanity when the volume on life gets turned up to full blast.
Anna on
Hi there! I surely enjoy your blog! I was wondering if you would mind sharing what kinds of anemones you grow and where to get them? I am having a hard time locating them. Thank you!