Spring’s Emergence

By Anna Martinez, Region Roots

Hello Region,

I hope everyone is gearing up for the spring season and all that it can come to offer. Although our winters do not seem to pack that same punch as they did when I was growing up in the 80’s, it's still one of my favorite seasons in the Midwest. Taking a walk on a trail or in your neighborhood, between a day of snow and a day of warm sunshine, is always exciting to look around and find green patches of earth emerging. This year I have already been able to find flower buds making their way out for the season. 

For those of us who like to garden or take the time to feed our community through farming as a business, seed planting is in full swing. Baby chicks are being tenderly acquired and cared for, chickens are starting to lay, piglets and calves are being born, it's truly a beautiful time just to sit and observe. The dynamics between the winter thaw and spring’s emergence offers us a time to think of and observe the cycle of life on this planet. 

In honor of planting season and our earth, I thought I would include a few seed starting hacks that may help you get your garden started. A few years ago, I was taught how to start seeds in milk jugs, plastic rotisserie containers and other common household one and done containers. Community gardens usually have seed swapping events or extra seeds to get you started. If you take a look around your local community. It’s a great way to meet like-minded people as well! 

Since my own chickens are in full swing again and I am finding all the ways to use the wonderful eggs, I have included a Hash Brown Crust Bacon and Cheddar Quiche. Anytime I can incorporate potatoes into my breakfast, I am that much happier!

I hope to see you walking around our local farmers markets, or at one of The Collectives events, a local restaurant or anywhere else we like to gather in the Region! And don't forget to say hello if you see me.