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Over the holiday of 2009, the Bohemian crew hibernated and took some time to work on our own gardens and catch up with family and friends. Work in the bohemian garden started out great – lots of great production from new seed varieties but the poor amount of sun has not been helpful. Plants have been growing slowly – healthily but slowly. The month of January has also been very trying – dry, cold winds and heavy freezes. Sadly the temperatures got so low on the January 7th and 8th that cool tolerant plants like mint, lettuces, and chards were damaged some. The recent rains have perked them up, though. Cabbages, cauliflower and Brussels sprouts look great.
As we head into 2010, we are noticing an increasing trend toward local and organic food support as well as home gardening. New products are showing up in stores and great events are planned around central Texas. Manufacturers are responding to market demands – your purchases are making a difference. We found raised bed kits (great for the do-it-yourself-er) for only $39.99. Another new item are nifty peck baskets filled with starter potatoes, onions, strawberries, and more ($9.98). Very nice kits for home gardeners. We continue to expect more of these items around this year. Seed sales have been very good and I’m sure the Bohemians have bought their fair share.
Other exciting changes in the local food trends are workshops and agritourism. Slow Food and the Texas Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association (TOFGA) are hosting a year of farm tours. Look for workshops and volunteer opportunities on TOFGA’s websitee. Workshops vary from new farmer training to backyard gardening and animal husbandry to cooking from the garden.

We should also mention Jennifer has been elected the Volunteer Region 2 Director of TOFGA. Take a look at her Region 2 Webpage and give some feedback.