So last week I talked about “marching ahead”, as we’d just started a new month. Well perhaps I can continue on that theme, as this past weekend we “sprang ahead”. And whether you were thrilled, or perhaps less so, (about the time change), in one week (March 19th), it’s the spring equinox! Now it does happen to be a late one this year – but hey, if you are still be up at 11:06pm, next Tuesday, happy spring to you! 🌿
Pussy willow (Salix discolor), from Plan B Organics
And in addition to spring, March also brings us Women’s History Month! 🙌
And while not directly related to the Dufferin Grove Market, WHM does give us another great reason to celebrate some of our fabulous women farmers!
I caught up with Jenny Cook of Knuckle Down Farm, who has been hard at work on her winter garlic. She also just can’t wait to sew her first seeds of the year. If you haven’t yet met Jenny (pictured above), she’ll be joining us once again, during our outdoor season – and we can’t wait either Jenny! 💜
Another great “catch-up” was with Audrey McDonald of Greenhouse Eatery, (pictured above.) Also one of our outdoor season vendors, she recently shared some delightful pics with me – of what else? Her greenhouse! Look close – you’ll see bananas growing locally. Amazing! And if you’re interested in learning more about Audrey’s farming journey, check out this interview from last month, (with Ontario’s Ecological Farmers Association.)
And for current farmer-vendors (to give a Women’s History Month shout-out to), let’s start with Nykole Crevits of Noki Farms! In addition to her super-healthy microgreens, each week we’re fortunate enough to enjoy her rich bounty of incredible gourmet mushrooms. Thanks so much Nykole!
And finally, look who’s making a long-awaited return to Dufferin! Yes, Blythe of Spade & Spoon will be at the clubhouse this week! So get ready to stock your cupboards with amazing jams, pickled veggies, and delicious maple syrup. What a Thursday it will be!
RE-POSTING: “Save The Date!”
A reminder that March 16, 2024, is when the “Toronto edition” of Seedy Saturday, takes place – (once again, at the Parkdale Public Library.) If you’re unfamiliar:
“Parkdale Seedy Saturday & Ecofair, is an amazing chance to learn about seeds, as well as to connect with seed savers. Folks are welcome to share, swap, and buy seeds – as well as to participate in family-friendly educational activities.” (March 16, 2024 – 11am-4pm, at 1303 Queen St W, Toronto, ON.) Contacts: angelael@westnh.org or sandrale@westnh.org.
LIST OF VENDORS for March 14th:
- Nith Valley Organics
- Plan B Organics
- Noki Farms
- Johnson Family Bakery
- Hammerhead Fish
- Rogers Ranch
- Forbes Wild Foods
- Green Florin
- Kalmplex Snax
- Magic Oven
- Estelle’s Caribbean Cuisine
- Spade & Spoon!
See you Thursday folks – and happy last week of winter! 🤸🏿♂️
-Nicole
(*in the Clubhouse at Dufferin Grove Park – every Thursday, 3-7pm)
Incredible maple trees for delicious syrup from Spade & Spoon. 🙌