Waiting and Watching
Because the trial was finally in the ground, the period of observation and evaluation began for the trial. Andrew and I did a small amount of scuffle hoeing to keep the weeds down and irrigated the plants as needed, as the temperature dropped and steeply raised again. The plants handled the shock of transplant with varying degrees of vigor, and die off was experienced in several cabbage varieties, as well as a couple of radicchio varieties.
I began collecting insect data in earnest this week, monitoring types of insect damage and evaluating the percentage of damage to each plant. Dr. Angelos Katsanis supervised my entomological data collection and met to discuss plant damage, probable pests, and methodology.
And Educating
This week also offered multiple opportunities to educate students and visitors to the farm about our field trials. Olympia Freedom Farmers, POF students, and community members all stopped by to see the field and ask questions.
