Flint, Mich., area urban agriculture report – June 26, 2013
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EmailWarmer temperatures and frequent rainfall are contributing to crop maturation and harvest from urban hoophouses.
Weather
According to the Michigan State University Flint Enviro-weather station, temperatures for the past week ranged from a 42 degrees Fahrenheit low to an 89 F high with an average of 64F. We are at 935 GDD base 50, which is slightly ahead of normal (908), but behind last year’s reading of 1,102 at this time. The area received around 0.76 inches of rainfall in this period, primarily in the past two days – Monday, June 24, and Tuesday, June 25.
Crop reports
No major pest problems this week. Some damping off disease noted in arugula and basil micro-greens in response to the high temperatures over the weekend.
Herbs, greens and garlic scapes from the field were brought to the urban growers’ co-operative stall at the Flint Farmer’s Market on Saturday, June 22. Out of area hoophouses, the crops brought to the market included zucchini, kale, Swiss chard, peas, carrots, green peppers, green beans, early cherry tomatoes, lettuce mix and micro greens. Turnips and radishes were harvested out of low-tunnel systems.
Urban grower’s co-op stall at the Flint Farmer’s Market.
According to Michigan State University Extension, one of the largest urban growers (about two acres) has contracted with a wholesale buyer for fresh market tomatoes this year, and the co-operative growers are also participating in the Flint Farmers' Market supported neighborhood markets within the city of Flint, Mich. – one in the north and one in the south. The markets will start next week and continue all summer and into the early fall to increase Flint, Mich., resident’s access to fresh, locally grown produce, and are funded from local foundations, organizations and businesses.
