The Brassica family is a genus of plant that can be found in the mustard and cabbage family. Kohlrabi, kale, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage and cauliflower all come from the same plant called Brassica Oleracea. There are a few ways to identify Brassicas. One of their characteristic traits is that Brassica flowers always have 4 petals arranged in a cross formation.

Some less common Brassicas include Komatsuna and Mibuna, which were planted this day.

Komatsuna and Mibuna are both Japanese greens that were planted in the Japanese bed.

The starting soil was quite firm and packed in. Volunteers began by preparing the soil for planting by breaking down large clumps as well as creating an even soil layer.

Next, irrigation lines were placed on the prepared beds before the mulch was added.

It was now time to plant!

Chioggia Beets were also planted with blood meal as a fertilizer. Blood meal is a great fertilizer because it is rich in organic nitrogen.

It was lovely day to be out in the garden. As the weather gets warmer, we welcome you to join our next work party on Sunday May 19th. Sign up here!