Farmers in southwestern Ontario are anticipating the onset of cooler weather to commence their winter preparations. At Sarah's Farm Market in Chatham, efforts are underway to ready raspberry bushes for the colder months. This includes pruning, fertilizing, and removing old canes to foster robust berry production in the spring. "We're definitely thinking ahead," stated Sarah Graham, the farm's owner. She highlighted the importance of advance planning for a healthy crop of raspberries and strawberries.
Graham mentioned that the application of straw to strawberry plants is pending the arrival of cooler temperatures, aiming to shield the plants from potentially lethal freezes. The timing of this procedure is critical to avoid damaging the next year's berries. The target is to achieve a soil temperature of 40 degrees Fahrenheit or lower, following at least three consecutive days of similar ambient temperatures.
In addition to these measures, the farm is engaged in narrowing rows, fertilizing, and cultivating to manage weeds, and preparing the ground for next year's strawberries. These plants, sourced from warmer regions such as California and Florida, require specific care, including a soaking process to revive them from dormancy.
Graham also touched on the delicate balance required in removing the straw cover in spring to prevent harming the emerging plants while avoiding frost damage. Raspberries demand particular attention in the fall, with pruning to ensure optimal spacing and cane density for the health of the bush. Concurrently, the farm is preparing for the holiday season, crafting Christmas baskets and wreaths from trimmed cedar and pine branches. "We're quite busy all the way through right until Christmas!" Graham exclaimed.
Source: CTV News