The fight to protect food crops against destructive insect pests has become more challenging in recent years, Mills River farming expert Patryk Battle reports. Battle and Boone-based insect scientist Richard McDonald will present a March 31 workshop on when and how organic growers should take drastic measures to deal with damaging insect and disease infestations.
Asheville VegFest’s smorgasbord of food and drinks will be strictly vegan, though the event aims to be as light and fun as its kombucha beer; The Inn at Glen Alpine hosts its first Turkey Tail Wine Festival; Patryk Battle leads a no-till gardening class at Living Web Farms; and the River Arts District Farmers Market opens for business.
Shortly after opening, West Asheville newcomer Arancini morphed from a fast-casual Italian eatery to a wine bar; Fifth Season Gardening Co.’s event schedule now includes Friday evening beer samplings plus monthly fundraisers for local nonprofits; Living Web Farms’ Patryk Battle teaches gardeners to increase tomato yields through grafting; and Isa’s Bistro offers a beer dinner and weekly discounted wines.
Hops & Vines is adding a new series to its class lineup. Meanwhile, Trout Lily of Fairview will host its sixth annual Bluegrass Oyster Fest; Ultimate Ice Cream partners with Youth Outright for the month of November; Living Web Farms teaches several donation-based food classes; and Edison Craft Ales + Kitchen adds local beers to its brunch menus.
