Spring and Soil Blocks

The last weekend in January, as we pulled up the stakes in the green house, and made a bonfire of last year’s tomato plants, it almost felt like a late autumn day—the crunch of snow underfoot, the smell of smoke, the biting wind.

But then we began planting starts for the garden. And even on the days when it was rainy and cold, each little seed reminded us of the spring season that would soon be here.

This year, we’re trying something new: soil blocks. We make our own special soil mix out of peat moss, compost, sand, lime, a bit of good old fashioned dirt, and a few other fertilizing ingredients. Then we add enough water to make mud brownies! Or at least, they look like brownies.

The soil block maker is pressed down into a mound of soil, to firmly pack the soil mix into each block. Then we lift the block maker, hold it over a tray, and press the lever to release the blocks. Each little block is its own “planter”, with an indentation in the top for planting in.

Today, we planted kohlrabi, parsley, and cucumbers. Soon we will begin transplanting the soil blocks with lettuce and spinach right into the greenhouse. And before you know it, you’ll be picking up your CSA box full of fresh greens!

Update: Visit our YouTube Channel for videos!
Making Soil Blocks
Planting Soil Blocks