As summer’s warmth wanes and autumn’s crispness begins to settle in, September is a pivotal month for us. This transitional period brings both the culmination of summer’s efforts and the anticipation of the new season’s bounty. Here’s a glimpse into what makes September a vibrant and crucial time at Rumar farm.

A Bountiful Harvest

September is the peak of the harvest season. Rumar relies on natural processes and sustainable practices to see an abundance of produce coming to maturity. This month is a time for collecting the fruits of summer’s hard work.

Marc and his team are busy in the fields, gathering crops and preparing them the Welland market, our online clients and CSA members. The focus on organic methods means there’s a strong emphasis on handling produce gently to preserve its quality and flavor. This includes picking crops at their peak and using minimal processing to keep them as close to their natural state as possible.

Soil and Seed Preparation

September isn’t just about harvesting; it’s also a time for preparing the soil for the next growing season. As crops are cleared from the fields, attention turns to soil health. As an organic and biodynamic farm, we use methods such as composting and cover cropping to enrich the soil and maintain its fertility. These practices help replenish nutrients, improve soil structure, and enhance the farm’s ecosystem.

We also begin preparing beds for spring planting involves mulching and soil amendments to ensure a strong start come spring.  Final biodynamic sprays and feeding of our fruit trees and berry bushes are also important fall tasks.

Reflecting and Planning

As the month progresses, there’s a natural rhythm of reflection and planning. Marc and I keep a farm journal to assess the successes and challenges of the growing season, which informs adjustments for the next year. This period of reflection ensures that practices continue to evolve and improve, maintaining the integrity and productivity of our farm.

September at Rumar farm is a vibrant and multifaceted time. It’s marked by the bounty of harvest, meticulous soil care, community engagement, and thoughtful planning. As the days shorten and the air cools, our farm prepares for its next chapter, all while celebrating the rich rewards of the summer’s hard work.

Here is what you can find at www.rumarfarm.ca this week:

Pears – Clapp, Bartlett, Harrow Sunrise
Tomatoes – Heritage Canning, Heirloom, Cherry
Garlic
Swiss Chard
Kale
Collard Greens
Summer Squash
Hot Banana, Jalapeno, Poblano Peppers
Sweet Banana Peppers
Melons – Black Mountain, Rumar Sweet
Egg Plant
Stir Fry Mix Lettuce
New Zealand Spinach
Radishes
Herbs and Honey

Ruth and Marc
Rumar Farm