The snow and ice are sadly not entirely receded from Better Farm's property, but we're thinking Spring as we get plants started in the main house and greenhouses. We're also germinating seeds that will grow into yummy veggies exclusively for Redwood's Food Pantry and dispersed to individuals and families in need.

In pots now:

Artichokes
Brussels Sprouts
Broccoli
Celery
Leeks
Lettuce
Onions
Squash varieties
Tomatoes

We'll get radishes, peas, spinach and kale outside next week and begin the rewarding work of raking out herb beds that have been enjoying rich compost all winter. We're expecting asparagus heads to start popping up around that time, as well as chives, garlic, leeks, onions and carrots.

We will direct-seed melons, greens, pumpkins, beans and such over the next couple of months; and are experimenting with repeated, staggered plantings to ensure a varied harvest throughout the summer and fall. Most rewarding of this process is the fact that so many of this year's seeds are officially Better Farm heirlooms; varieties of seeds we saved from previous years' plants.

Better Farm's produce—boasting 80-plus varieties— will be featured on the menu at Bella's in Clayton for the second year in a row, and can be purchased via our farm stand, special orders, or via our CSA.

Those of you gardening at home, click here for a comprehensive guide to indoor seed-starting courtesy of Mother Earth News.

Better Farm's CSA kicks off May 1—if you haven't already signed up, click here to get involved.