The Kids Grow Up Fast

Ellie and Nessa’s bucklings have reached a big milestone and are now fully off bottles and weaned from their mamas. This stage is a big accomplishment but also a reminder of how quickly kids grow.

With weaning complete, the next step will be banding in the near future. Transitions like these are part of responsible herd management and an important part of raising goats with intention. Every stage brings new needs, and these boys are well on their way to the next chapter of maturing. They have already made great strides in adapting to their move to the buck area.

Seedling Season

Inside and under cover, the vegetable starts are asking for attention. Tomatoes, peppers, and marigolds are ready to be up-potted into larger containers so their roots have room to keep developing before planting time.

This is one of those hopeful spring chores that feels full of promise. Tiny plants now, future harvests later. Each tray of seedlings is a reminder that summer food starts long before summer arrives.

Berry Roll Call

The elderberry bushes are waking up nicely and showing their first leaves while still in pots. With luck, they will be heading into the ground soon where they can really settle in and grow.

The mulberries are already planted and beginning to leaf out with tiny new growth. The huckleberries, on the other hand, are still looking rough with no leaves yet and a crunchy appearance. We are continuing to water and wait. Gardening teaches patience whether we ask for the lesson or not.

Watching the Dry Weather

One thing shaping every chore right now is the dry weather across the area. Drought conditions in WNC are on everyone’s mind, and it changes how you think about planting, watering, timing, and overall land management.

The dry conditions also raise fire danger, which adds another layer of attention to daily life. In between all the usual spring work, we have been gathering downed limbs and woody debris to shred and manage where we can. Our area still carries so much fallen timber from Hurricane Helene, and reducing that buildup feels like an important task for both safety and stewardship.

When rain is scarce, every drop matters. We are hoping for steady showers soon, both for the gardens and for the pastures that will need support as the season moves forward.

Until Next Time

That is the rhythm of late April at The Tart Farm: growing things, growing animals, small adjustments, hopeful plans, and a watchful eye on the weather. There is always something to do, and that is part of the beauty of farm life.