July is heating up and drying out! Keeping crops healthy through the high heat and scant rainstorms can be difficult. The timing and amount of water use to irrigate crops can make or break produce quality, and the survival of the plants. Carefully calculate your water use in accordance with crop needs and keep your watering schedule as consistent as possible. Inconsistent watering can make your cucumbers bitter and over-watering tomatoes can cause cracking. Consider developing an in-depth irrigation plan for your farm and continue reading this issue of the toolbox for more tips and stories from the farm.

Cheers,

Karen McSwain, CFSA’s Director of Farm Services and Food Systems