Snow & Low Tunnels

Last Wednesday night we had our first inch of snow for the year.  Although it didn’t last very long it was beautiful.

As you can see Aaron has built low tunnels to protect the Greens and Roots from the cold, frost, and snow.  We purchased a really neat tool that allows you to bend 1/2″ EMT (electrical conduit) into 4′ hoops.  After bending the hoops, Aaron dug holes to insert the ends of the hoops into.  Next he packed the earth around the ends of the hoops in the holes and the tunnels were ready for covering.  Right now we are using a layer of UV resistant plastic, held down by rocks, bricks, and logs to keep everything cozy.

The morning after the snow, I went out to check on our Greens and Roots.  A nice wave of warmth and humidity exited each tunnel as I opened the ends, and fogged up my camera lens.

After my lens cleared up I was able to get a shot of the salad greens in the tunnel.  You can see the Arugula in the foreground, followed by the Rouge de Hiver (an Heirloom purple lettuce variety), Lola Rosa Darky (another Heirloom purple lettuce), and Mesclun Mix.

The Beets were so beautiful with water droplets shining on the leaves in the sunlight, their roots slowly growing below the earth.