Works in Progress

Learn

Since moving our operations to Poughquag, New York in the summer of 2022, we’ve been watching the land closely. We are in a decently sized clearing, surrounded by our small forest. The back of our property abuts hundreds of acres of private and state forest land. It has been important to learn where the sun shines and when, and what will grow. We are beginning to understand the quality of the soil: mostly heavy clay with stones, a very low pH level, and average organic matter. Through observation, soil testing, and blind experimentation, we know that the soil needs work. There are also many invasive plant species that need to be kept in check and when possible eliminated from garden and natural areas.

Experiment

Before our move, we mainly focused on growing vegetables and herbs. We continue to do this in limited spaces and raised beds. However, our new land is hilly and the soil has a low pH. Many of our established crops will grow, but other crops will grow better here. We’ve decided to grow our traditional offerings like leafy greens and spring/summer veggies on the old land about five miles away while we throw caution to the wind and start new crops here. So far, we’ve planted a berry patch focusing on blueberries. Our forests are loaded with blackberries and wineberries so we know those grow well. Raspberries, blackberries and currants are planned for 2024. We’ve started fruit and nut trees like figs, mulberries, and chestnuts. Walnuts are native and grow in our forest. Mushrooms like shiitakes, lions mane, and oysters have been started in our laying yard and we’re also playing with indoor mushroom production.

Decide

Obviously, we seem to be all over the place and this is by design. We believe that another growing season (or two) will narrow our focus to specialize in one or a few specific crops. While we’re not sure where we will end up, our guiding principle is to work with the land, not reshape it to fit our former model. Scott is also pursuing a separate and equally demanding project to create a nonprofit that will bring together his passion for wellness/mental health, agriculture, and community. Learn more about Eden Share, Inc.