Christmas Time comes again to Metchosin Farm!
As we turn our minds to the joys of winter, our little farm has entered its well-deserved period of rest. Our Garden Beds lie fallow and we will too on 18th December!
There is a certain magic to a Canadian winter on the farm. The frantic energy of harvest season fades into quiet and frosty mornings. In the case of some winters it has led to snow (an unusual statement for most Canadians).
We enjoy this special time to recharge, reflect, and reconnect with all those precious people in our lives. While we sip hot chocolate by the woodstove and plan next years garden, we wanted to share a few ways that you can care for your growing spaces during the deep winter months.
We even have some tips and treats for our little furry friends (Forager Pet)
The Dream Phase (Seed Catalogues)
This is the most important winter task! Now is the time to dive into seed catalogues (ours included!). Review what worked last year and what didn't. Sketch out your garden beds and order your seeds early to ensure you get those unique heirloom varieties before they sell out.
Protect the Soil
If you have bare soil in your veggie patches, it’s not too late to cover it. A thick layer of straw, leaves, or burlap protects the soil structure from harsh freeze-thaw cycles and heavy rains, keeping the microbial life happy until spring.
Hydrate Your Evergreens
If you live in a dryer region or are having an unseasonably dry winter, remember to water your evergreens (cedars, rhododendrons) periodically when the ground isn't frozen. Winter desiccation from cold winds is a major killer of shrubs.
Tool TLC
Take those rusty pruners and dirt-caked spades into the warmth of the garage or basement. Clean them thoroughly, sharpen the blades, and rub wooden handles with linseed oil. Your spring self will thank you immensely.
If you got this far you are possibly eager for some winter pet tips too:
Watch for the Drafts
Small animals are incredibly sensitive to temperature fluctuations and drafts. That spot near the window that was perfect for their enclosure in July might be dangerously cold now. Move cages away from windows, exterior doors, and drafty floorboards. Ensure they have extra bedding materials—hay, shredded paper, or fleece—to build deep, warm nests to burrow into during long winter nights.
Winter Enrichment
In the wild, animals spend most of their time foraging. In winter, indoor pets can get bored easily. Since fresh outdoor greens aren't available, this is the perfect time to introduce farm-grown dried enrichment!
Rotate different dried herbs, flowers, and seed sprays (like the ones we grow here at the farm) into their enclosures. Scattering dried treats creates a natural foraging experience, keeps their teeth healthy, and engages their minds when they can't be out and about
Merry Christmas Gift
Subscribers Only
Use Code Hohohosantapet2025 for 10% off your next Forager Pet order an give the gift of enrichment! use by 16 Dec 2025
Use Code Hohohoseedysanta2025 for 15% off your next seed order of $50 or more (includes root stock, tubers, and cuttings. use by 16 Dec 2025
Neither of these discounts will work with other order discounts.
We cannot guarantee arrival by Christmas, but you can with a Digital Gift Card
Happy Holidays from Our Farm to Your Home
We hope you find time this season to rest. We are so grateful for your support this past year, helping our small farm to continue growing so many things for your soil and joy for your small pets.
We wish you a very Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, and a peaceful winter season. We look forward to growing with you again in the New Year!
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