The snow continues to fall today, and it might be the loveliest storm yet, but in a winter like this we lose some of the wonderment, you know? I grew up here, in Newport, and my childhood was one of occasional snows that became slushy messy streets in the course of a day. In the blizzard of ’78, we stayed out in the park until 9:00 PM just because there was finally enough snow to really build forts and make snowballs and stuff – we had no idea what fear of a snowstorm was. My Minnesotan mother sent us out no matter the weather, and it was a running joke for her when they cancelled school.
Yet this is a snowy winter for Rhode Island, and as a gardener and farmer I am so happy for it, especially when this bitter weather came along. All the perennials and shrubs are nestled in a blanket of insulating snow, which really helps to keep them safe and snug.
So much snow!
1500 ranunculus in the hoop...
The greenhouse in January is another matter. Jam-packed with our collection of not-quite-hardies, we clear off more and more space here at the end of the month for succulent cuttings that have rooted, and growing baby plants. We have started about 25 varieties so far, and this week we will start another 20 or so, some for our plant sale May 14, and some for cutting as late as July and August. 
Big plans for this year include a new roof for the little barn, and a skylight for the workspace, as well as more varieties of dahlias, even better lilies, and lots more of all your favorite annuals. We’ll be increasing the amount of growing area and expanding the season for a few things. We’ve also decided on a few crops that just don’t pay their way – but don’t worry, you’re not likely to miss them, as they either didn’t grow well here or didn’t sell well. Deer fencing is another big project for spring.
Weddings and more
We are excited to announce that there is a two page spread of our bouquets (page 82, “Fresh Picks”) in Engaged! magazine, which is Rhode Island Monthly’s annual bridal issue. Thanks to the excellent Doreen Chisnell for the opportunity, and to Nat Rea for his gorgeous photographs! We also appear in one of the weddings that was showcased in the same issue, “Staying True” about Emily Rochon and Bram Claeys.
Robin Hollow will also be at our first ever bridal show, The Wedding Experience, also run by Rhode Island Monthly, on February 20, 2011 11-4 at the Crowne Plaza in Warwick. Send your friends, as the show promises to be terrific.
Market news
We miss our customers! As nice as it is to have the time to plan and propagate, we can’t wait to see all of you this spring. We will be returning to winter markets in March, but the date will depend on the weather. Coastal Growers’ Market in Wickford will see us mid to late March, and we’ll be back in Pawtucket the week before Easter weekend or before if we can!
This summer, we’ll be at Hope Street Market (Lippitt Park) in Providence again, and of course Coastal Growers’ at Casey Farm in Saunderstown, both Saturday mornings. We’ll also be in Newport on Wednesday afternoons. Remember that you can purchase a flower account which gives you a discount on your floral purchases – see the link here for more information. These make great gifts for Valentine’s Day or birthdays, or give one to your self – our members love having a “house account” at the market stall or farm events.
Good luck with all the snow, and remember that the days will get so much longer in the next month, so spring is coming!!!
