Wholly Water Farms Newsletter

Issue #4 — April 2025

A Note from Sara

April is when the rhythm of the farm and the rhythm of the community finally sync up. Farmers markets are back in full swing, and there is nothing quite like setting up a table at dawn, arranging trays of fresh-cut microgreens, and watching people discover something new. I had a woman last Saturday tell me she had never tasted a sunflower shoot before. She bought two trays and came back an hour later for a third. That is the moment that makes early mornings worth it.

This month we are talking about finding your local market, comparing soil-grown and hydroponic microgreens, and brewing herbal teas straight from the garden.

From the Blog

Florida Farmers Market Guide 2025

Whether you are a shopper looking for genuinely local produce or a grower thinking about selling at market, this guide covers the landscape of Florida farmers markets in 2025. I share tips on what to look for as a buyer, what to expect as a vendor, and how to find the markets nearest you.

Soil vs Hydroponic Microgreens

This is one of the questions I get asked most. Do microgreens grow better in soil or hydroponically? The answer depends on what you are growing and what matters most to you. This post compares flavor, texture, nutrition, ease of growing, and cleanup for both methods, with honest pros and cons.

Herbal Tea from Your Garden

Growing your own tea herbs is simpler than you might expect, and the flavor of a fresh-brewed cup from your garden is incomparable. This guide covers the best herbs to grow for tea in Florida, from lemongrass to mint to chamomile, along with drying and brewing tips.

Seasonal Growing Tip

Mulching to Conserve Water as Temperatures Rise

As April temperatures climb, your garden beds start losing moisture fast. A three-to-four-inch layer of organic mulch, such as straw, shredded leaves, or pine bark, will reduce evaporation, keep roots cooler, and suppress weeds. Pull the mulch an inch or two away from plant stems to avoid rot. I mulch every bed on the farm by mid-April, and the difference in water usage through summer is dramatic. Your water bill and your plants will both thank you.

Florida Agriculture Spotlight

Earth Day falls on April 22, and many Florida farms and community gardens host special events to celebrate. From volunteer planting days to farm tours and composting workshops, it is a wonderful way to connect with your local food community. Check with your county extension office or local farm network for events near you. Getting your hands in the soil alongside neighbors is one of the best ways to mark the day.

Quick FAQ

Q: How do I know if my produce is really "local"?

A: Ask your vendor directly. A genuine local grower will be happy to tell you exactly where the farm is and how the food was grown. Look for specific farm names, locations, and growing practices. If the answer is vague, that is a sign the produce may have come through a distributor rather than from a nearby field.

I hope to see some of you at a market this month. There is nothing better than a Saturday morning spent surrounded by good food and good people. Happy growing.

With appreciation,
Sara Johnson
President, Wholly Water Farms, Inc.

Wholly Water Farms, Inc. • Florida

whollywaterfarms.com

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