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We’re featuring Northstar Organics cucumbers, cilantro and red kale this week along with Littlest Acre’s mixed lettuce in the bags this week.
Mixed Green Salad by Cubes N Juliennes is a quick and easy yet still fancy enough that it’s perfect for a dinner party or for a weekday dinner. These are almost all produce you can grow in your garden and enjoy this all summer long.
To save on your budget, swap out the pistachios for sunflower or pumpkin seeds. Don’t have dill, dry this recipe with Northstar Organics delicious cilantro! click on the photo for the recipe.
Massaged Kale Salad with Sweet Potato (or Yam), Pomegranate & Goat Cheese — this is the perfect meal to do some of the longer prep of roasting the yams ahead of time. I love this salad in the fall and winter but with the abundance of kale in the spring and summer it’s a perfect addition to your meal plan for those hot days yet cooler evenings. It makes a great lunch the next day too. Click on the photo to go directly to the Walder Wellness site to find this complete recipe.
This Kale Lentil Salad with Lemon Dressing by Pease and Crayons is protein packed, dressed with a lemony zest and it’s ingredients are easily swapped or added to. This recipe will make 4 side salads or 2 meal sized salads.
Perfect additions are your grape tomatoes, Little Acre lettuce mix, some thinly sliced cabbage or swap the parsley for Northstar Organic cilantro.
Zesty Garlic Herb Mushroom Delight shared by Viral Impact 1 is full of flavour with it’s combination of garlic, herbs and earthy mushrooms. It’s perfect for as a main vegetarian dish or a side, or even just as a healthy movie night snack!
If you love the combination, this is the perfect time to plant parsley and thyme in your garden and starter plants can be found at plant stands and groceries stores this time of year. They’ll gift you these flavours all year long.
Cantaloupe Caprese Salad by Aberdeen’s Kitchen hits the spot on these hot, sunny days and delightfully full of juicy flavour on a picnic with a charcuterie board.
Top with a balsamic glaze or vinegar or eat your salad naked, you’ll love it whichever way you decide to eat it!
Click on the photo to go directly to the recipe link.
What’s in the bags this week?
Standard ($30.00): BC small nugget potatoes, green cabbage, org. bananas, Northstar Organics *short cucumbers, org. grape tomatoes, org. cilantro, Littles Acre *org. lettuce mix
Standard Plus ($40.00): org. Jewel/Garnet yams, *BC small nugget potatoes, green cabbage, cantaloupe, org. bananas, org. grape tomatoes, Northstar Organics *short cucumber, org. cilantro, Littlest Acre org. *lettuce mix
Sustainable ($40.00): org. yellow onions, org. Jewel/Garnet yams, Northstar Organics cucumber, red kale, and lettuce mix, org. avocado, chives
Cultural ($30.00): org. Jewel/Garnet yams, org. yellow onions, green cabbage, Northstar Organics long cucumber, org. bananas, org. grape tomatoes, org. avocado, org. cilantro
Staples ($30.00): org. yellow onions, *BC small nugget potatoes, green cabbage, cantaloupe, org. bananas, org. grape tomatoes, Northstar Organics short cucumber, org. avocado
Fruit ($25.00): Cara Cara oranges, pinapple, org. mango, cantaloupe, org. banana
BC – Only ($30.00): BC small nugget potatoes, Northstar Organics *cucumber, cilantro, and red kale, BC Cremini mushrooms, Littlest Acre *lettuce mix
*local, BC, organic
***Note: Some items may change due to circumstances out of our control but the value of the box will always remain the same.
Wet Weather Reminder — Bring your cloth bags or totes! Don’t forget to bring along your reusable grocery bags or totes to avoid the soggy demise of our paper bags if you’ll be hitting the elements on the way home. Even just getting to the car during this soggy season could be lethal for your produce — we want it to make it all the way home — not playing a game of 10 pin on the sidewalk!
Foraging
Dandelion Cream Scone
ingredients:
2 cups flour
1 tbsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/3 cup honey
5 tbsp unsalted butter (chilled)
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup dandelion petals
1 cup lemon balm (finely minced, optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 450°F and move the rack to the middle position.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, and salt thoroughly.
3. Fold the honey into the dry mix, breaking it apart as you go.
4. Cut in the butter until the mix looks like coarse cornmeal.
5. Stir in the dandelion petals and optional lemon balm or herbs.
6. Pour in the cream and stir until a rough dough forms.
7. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and press all the floury bits into it.
8. Knead just until you get a sticky dough ball, about 5–10 seconds.
9. Press the dough evenly into a round 9-inch cake pan to shape it.
10. Flip the pan and turn out the dough onto your surface.
11. Slice the dough into 8 equal wedges.
12. Arrange the wedges on a baking sheet lined with parchment or a silicone mat.
13. Bake for 12–15 minutes, rotating the pan halfway through, until tops are lightly browned.
14. Let scones cool on a wire rack for 10 minutes before serving to set the texture.
15. To freeze, shape and cut the dough into wedges, then place them on a sheet in the freezer.
16. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag or airtight container.
17. Bake straight from frozen at 450°F for 12–15 minutes.
18. Store frozen for up to one month.
Perfect for a cozy morning or teatime treat with a wild twist!
Get Growing
Featured Webinar: Gardening for Biodiversity!
May 12, 2025 | 12:00–12:30 PM (PT)
Did you know your garden, yard, or greenspace can play a vital role in protecting local ecosystems? Thoughtful planting helps support pollinators, birds, and other wildlife—while preventing the spread of invasive species.
Join us in our upcoming webinar with Lauren Bosch, a Medical Herbalist working at the Cowichan Green Community Society to support local food and biodiversity.
In this session, you will learn PlantWise gardening:
What to plant
What to avoid
And how you can make your garden a haven for biodiversity. Whether you grow food, flowers, or simply enjoy green space, your choices matter!
Get Growing is back on Thursday, May 22nd & we need help with distributing free garden materials and seedlings to our neighbours!
Snacks, drinks, tunes & first dibs of free plants will be available in appreciation of your help.
The volunteer shifts are as follows, but we would love to have you whenever you can make it!
Shift 1: 12-3pm Setup & Plant distribution
• Setting up tables, tents, separating & labelling plants in their trays. • Distributing plants to members of the public • Registering members of the public when they arrive using their phone or a paper form
Shift 2: 1:30-4:30pm Plant distribution & Tear down
• Distributing plants to members of the public • Registering members of the public when they arrive using their phone or a paper form • Tear down
Want to help out? Get in touch with jesse@fernwoodnrg.ca, or comment below & we will reach out
Check out your neighbourhood’s Get Growing distribution dates and locations here: https://www.victoria.ca/parks-recreation/growing-city/get-growing-victoria
The next meadow work party in the Fernwood NRG Community Garden is Thursday May 22nd, 10-12pm, weeding and building a path. Come join us.
Want to know more, want to get your hands dirty & learn about native meadow restoration? We have a monthly work party. This monthly session will be lead by Alina, who works with Satinflower Nurseries & is experienced in native plants & restoration.
The session will include a tour of the meadow, some plant identification & weeding.
Drinks, snacks & tools will be provided. Just show up! Meet at the front doors of the community centre. If you’re running late, you’ll find us at the meadow which runs alongside the community centre; down the steps towards Stevenson Park, from Gladstone Ave.
Please bring sun protection & water as the site is exposed to afternoon sun.
No experience necessary! For more info, email jesse@fernwoodnrg.ca
Some plants just enjoy their new homes in Canada a little TOO much. They are just loving our beautiful temperate climate here on the Island a little too much! [I can’t say i blame them!] Often they unintentionally take over vast swaths of land, smothering native plants that have no defenses against their rapid growth. This is why you may see a few groups out and about in the Commons this year! Another Invasive Plant removal session is planned for Vic West. The CoolKit crew, in conjunction with @City of Victoria – Local Government will be showing you how to identify and remove invasives safely and effectively. The first session is THIS WEEKEND May 10th, meeting in the Commons just behind the tennis courts off Craigflower Rd. @ 10am. There is no pre-registration, just show up! Come out, help remove green things that are somewhere they don’t belong. All tools provided! #vicwest#invasives#gardentherapy @The Vic West NeighbourhoodVictoria West Community AssociationSpiral CafeInvasive Species Council of BC
Vegetables You Can Grow From Kitchen Scraps: A Beginner’s Guide to Regrowing Food at Home
If you’ve ever tossed carrot tops or onion roots into the trash, you might be surprised to learn you were throwing away free food. Regrowing vegetables from leftovers is not only sustainable, but it’s also incredibly simple—and satisfying. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a curious beginner, this guide will show you how to turn your kitchen scraps into a thriving indoor garden.
Why Regrow Vegetables From Scraps?
Regrowing vegetables at home reduces food waste, saves money, and provides a continuous supply of fresh, organic produce. It’s also a fun way to teach kids about nature, or add some greenery to your kitchen without needing soil or outdoor space.
How to Regrow Vegetables in Water
All you need are a few clear jars, fresh water, and a sunny windowsill. Here’s a breakdown of popular vegetables you can regrow from scraps and exactly how to do it.
1. Green Onions (Scallions)
Keywords: regrow green onions in water, green onion scraps
Place the white root ends of green onions in a jar with just enough water to cover the roots. In just a few days, you’ll see fresh green shoots. Change the water every 2–3 days to keep it clean.
2. Carrots
Keywords: grow carrots from tops, regrowing carrot greens
Save the carrot tops (about 1 inch from the crown) and place them top-side up in shallow water. While you won’t get full carrots, lush carrot greens will sprout, perfect for pesto or garnish.
3. Romaine Lettuce
Keywords: grow romaine lettuce indoors, regrow lettuce from core
Cut romaine about 2 inches from the base and place the stump in water. In a week, fresh leaves will begin to grow from the center. Once established, you can plant it in soil for a fuller head.
4. Celery
Keywords: regrow celery base, how to grow celery from scraps
Just like lettuce, celery can regrow from its base. Submerge the bottom in water and new leafy stalks will appear from the center. Transfer to soil for long-term growth.
5. Onions
Keywords: regrow onions in water, growing onions from kitchen scraps
Whole onions or onion bottoms can be rooted in water. Once roots develop and green shoots appear, they can be planted in soil for full bulb formation.
Although you can’t grow full radishes in water, their tops can produce microgreens—nutrient-dense greens that sprout quickly. Simply suspend radish tops in water and harvest the young greens in a few days.
7. Herbs (Bonus Tip)
Keywords: regrow basil in water, growing herbs from cuttings
Herbs like basil, mint, and cilantro root easily in water. Place cuttings in a jar, and once roots are visible, transfer them to soil or keep them in water for regular harvests.
Tips for Success
Use clear jars so you can monitor root growth.
Refresh water every few days to prevent bacterial buildup.
Place jars near a bright window for best results.
Transition water-grown plants to soil once roots are 1–2 inches long for stronger growth.
Final Thoughts
Regrowing vegetables from kitchen scraps is one of the easiest ways to dip your toes into gardening. It’s budget-friendly, eco-conscious, and rewarding. Whether you’re sprouting scallions in your apartment or harvesting lettuce on your windowsill, you’re taking a steward self-sufficiency leftover at a time.
Come celebrate spring, gardening, and local food with us!
Attend various FREE gardening and food growing workshops hosted by Victoria Master Gardeners, Compost Education Centre, Capital Region Beekeepers Association, and more! Participate in a seed exchange, shop seedlings from local nurseries, then relax and enjoy the live music in the park
Mark your calendars, because you won’t want to miss it!
Date: Saturday, June 7th
Time: 11:00am-3:00pm
Location: Fairfield Food Forest & Robert Porter Park (1350 Fairfield Rd)
Want to volunteer? Email Ton at gardens@fairfieldcommunity.ca
Victoria West Community Association Board Game Nights Are Back!
Looking for a fun way to connect with your neighbours, meet new people, and challenge your brain? Join us for Board Game Night at the Vic West Community Centre!
Upcoming Dates:
• May 9
• June 13
• July 11
• August 8
Time: 6:30–9:00 PM
521 Craigflower Rd
Free drop-in!
We’ve got the games — you bring the fun! Come early to grab a seat and check out our game collection. Whether you’re a seasoned strategist or just in it for the laughs, there’s a place at the table for you.
We’re bringing neighbours together to shape how we welcome new community members to the Caledonia housing development!
Where: 1240 Gladstone Ave.
When: Thursday, May 29th @ 5:30 PM
Why: To build connection, brainstorm welcoming ideas, and spark community-led initiatives!
We’ve got seed funding to help bring your ideas to life from creative welcome events to long-term projects that strengthen our neighbourhood. One goal? Welcome the new neighbours at Caledonia Housing.
This is the first of a few planning sessions. We’ll kick things off together to support residents to lead the way!
Have a question? Email Aaren – aaren@fernwoodnrg.ca
Join us in the First Met gym for another fun Bollwood Fusion dance class. No dance experience necessary! All levels are welcome. Just bring yourself, comfortable shoes and a water bottle.
Friday May 16th
6-7:30pm
First Met Church 932 Balmoral
Some amazing workshops the past few weeks with our friends at the Compost Education Centre. Food preservation is such a valuable skill and we are so grateful to be able to learn with our neighbours! We made delicious strawberry rhubarb compote and sauerkraut. Stay tuned for more free events and workshops in North Park!
Mixed Green Salad by Cubes N Juliennes is a quick and easy yet still fancy enough that it’s perfect for a dinner party or for a weekday dinner. These are almost all produce you can grow in your garden and enjoy this all summer long.
This Kale Lentil Salad with Lemon Dressing by Pease and Crayons is protein packed, dressed with a lemony zest and it’s ingredients are easily swapped or added to. This recipe will make 4 side salads or 2 meal sized salads.
Zesty Garlic Herb Mushroom Delight shared by Viral Impact 1 is full of flavour with it’s combination of garlic, herbs and earthy mushrooms. It’s perfect for as a main vegetarian dish or a side, or even just as a healthy movie night snack!
Cantaloupe Caprese Salad by Aberdeen’s Kitchen hits the spot on these hot, sunny days and delightfully full of juicy flavour on a picnic with a charcuterie board.
Dandelion Cream Scone
May 12, 2025 | 12:00–12:30 PM (PT)
What to plant
What to avoid
The next meadow work party in the Fernwood NRG Community Garden is Thursday May 22nd, 10-12pm, weeding and building a path. Come join us. 
Some plants just enjoy their new homes in Canada a little TOO much.
Come celebrate spring, gardening, and local food with us!
Date: Saturday, June 7th
Time: 11:00am-3:00pm
Location: Fairfield Food Forest & Robert Porter Park (1350 Fairfield Rd)
Time: 6:30–9:00 PM
Free drop-in!
Why: To build connection, brainstorm welcoming ideas, and spark community-led initiatives!
Join us in the First Met gym for another fun Bollwood Fusion dance class. No dance experience necessary! All levels are welcome. Just bring yourself, comfortable shoes and a water bottle.
Queer Crafternoon: Macrame!
Community Safety & Care Training!