EastBoro Garden Spring ‘26 Update
Set aside in the nearby parking garage lies a lush haven of leafy greens emerging after a hard winter. This winter was rough for all but what has taken shape is a resurgence. Perennial herbs overflowing in ways that even surprise us. New plantings like kale, collards, and chard are now taking up preserved space and eggplants, cucumbers and tomatoes have deemed it warm enough to show up. As food exists, critters are present but not many of them mean harm. In the coming months we look forward to a bountiful harvest but for now a simple visit would do the plants some good. We all grow best in the company of others.
Meet Your 2026 Farmer-
Owen!
Hi, I'm farmer Owen, often described as a jack of all trades Ive had many lifetimes in quite a short span.- but farming has captivated me for the longest. Originally from Prince Georges county, the DMV is my home and I love it here. Entering my first year with Up Top, I am excited to be part of the impact but really, most excited to see the peppers this summer. If you see me in the hallways, elevators, or out in the garden, feel free to say hello and ask me about what's happening in the space. Id love to share what we have going on for you all this year.
In This Spring
KALE
One of the most beloved crops in our gardens, kale thrives in cool weather and is planted before the last frost, giving it a head start on the season and making it one of the first crops ready for harvest.
Fun Facts About Kale
Taste & Texture: Flavor ranges from mild and sweet in young leaves to earthy and slightly bitter in mature ones- a quick massage with olive oil softens both the leaves and the bite.
Nutrition & Calories: Just one cup of raw kale delivers over 100% of the daily value for Vitamins K, A, and C, all for around 33 calories. It's also a surprising plant-based source of calcium.
Culinary Uses: Very versatile- can be eaten raw in salads, blended into smoothies, roasted into chips, or sautéed as a side. It holds up better to heat than most leafy greens.
Harvest: Kale is a "cut and come again" crop meaning that harvesting outer leaves regularly actually encourages the plant to keep producing all season long!
