RAIN!!

We got some much needed rain here Saturday, Sunday, and as I'm typing its still coming down.  I had a great conversation with Rob Austin from NC State Friday.  Rob has been doing research on growing hops in North Carolina.  Rob is a great guy and really knows his stuff.  We have a lot of work to do around here during the Fall and Winter, but are really excited about next year. 

After a small amount of rain fell, the ground "seemed soft" enough to break up in preparation for the barley test plot.  Ultimately we had to wait for a little more rain to fall, and right now I'm sure its a mud pit.   

Tasks at Hand

Work is picking up around the farm.  We have had much interest about our future hops crop from North Carolina brewers.  The ground for the barley test plot will be prepared soon, and clearing of unwanted trees and shrubs is constantly ongoing.

Site of future Barley Test plot.

 

Brush Pile -- which will soon triple in size.

The Beginning

JG Farms is up and running.  A fall planting of 6-row barley is being laid out and seeding will commence in early October.  This is just a small planting as a test of our grain growing and grain malting abilities.  The hop yard is being laid out and expands everyday in our minds.  It looks now that we will grow hops in two seperate yards.  Any brewers interested in seeing certain varieties of hops are invited to give their recommendations.