Spring in Maine 2018 by Bangor Daily News

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SPRING IN MAINE • Bangor Daily News Special Advertising Section • March 16, 2018

STATE OF MAINE DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, CONSERVATION & FORESTRY

STATE OF M AINE

OFFIC E

OF THE

GOVERNOR

1 STATE HOUSE STATION AU GUS T A, M AINE 04333-0001

PAUL R. LEPAGE GOVERNOR

OFFICE OF THE COMMISSIONER 22 STATE HOUSE STATION AUGUSTA, MAINE 04333

WALTER E. WHITCOMB COMMISSIONER

PAUL R. LEPAGE

A MESSAGE FROM COMMISSIONER WALTER E. WHITCOMB

GOVERNOR

A Message from Governor Paul R. LePage The importance of Maine agriculture to our heritage, identity and economy cannot be overstated. Maine’s 8,200 farm operations provide wholesome foods, thousands of jobs and more than $740 million in farm receipts, not including direct sales at farms or farmers markets. Agricultural enterprises large and small are benefiting from the recent growth of Maine agriculture. This is an exciting time for Maine-made products and agriculture. My administration, through the efforts of the Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry and other state agencies, is working hard to help Maine reach its full potential. Farmers, producers, processors and distributors have an even greater opportunity to feed our neighbors, the region and the world. The Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry has greatly improved state-generated marketing, communications and technical assistance to support agricultural enterprises large and small. The result is more connections with the public highlighting the ongoing success of Maine agriculture and the services that support the continued growth and profitability of these small businesses. Local, quality, sustainable-these three words are being used to describe Maine agriculture as part of our enhanced marketing effort. Two recent examples of rapid growth in Maine agriculture are the maple and horticultural industries. Since 2010, Maine maple syrup production has more than doubled (114% increase) and the number of taps has increased 26.5%. Since 2009, Maine horticulture sales have increased 43.6 % from $49.1 million to $70.5 million (2014), more than double the national average (18%)! Maine is working to achieve similar success with many other agricultural sectors, including potatoes and wild blueberries. These are just a couple of examples of the rapid growth of agriculture in our state in recent years. Please join me in recognizing and supporting local Maine products and the men and women responsible for producing them. We celebrate their efforts.

Maine Maple Sunday®, March 25th, is a great time to break out of winter confinement. Just like the maple trees that start showing signs of the new season in the gradually increasing warmth of spring sunshine, thousands of eager families head to a nearby maple sugarhouse to consume numerous versions of Maine’s official native sweetener, Maine maple syrup. Maine Maple Sunday® has become a nationally recognized celebration of family fun. The distinctive white steam billowing from the rooftop of a sap house, disappearing into the nearby maple grove almost seems like an attempt to raise the outside air temperature, to push the snowbanks back a little further each day encouraging an earlier arrival of spring weather. As we describe in this “Spring into Maine” feature publication, the planting season around our homes and gardens will soon follow. “Plant Something Maine” highlights the improvements we can grow around our homes and gardens this spring. Very importantly for any of us that want our home landscapes to look better and our gardens to be productive, the plant experts in Maine greenhouses and nurseries can guide our decisions around which plants will actually grow in Maine soils and climate. As we well know, not every plant thrives in Maine. Governor LePage notes in his letter that Maine is experiencing rapid increases in the maple syrup and horticulture fields. That means more places for us to visit, more features and items when we get there. Maple syrup, landscape and garden plant businesses are a connection to Maine’s diverse agricultural economy that families can see, touch and enjoy. We encourage you to locate a nearby site and create your own family experience. We wish you safe journeys. Sincerely,

Sincerely,

Walter E. Whitcomb Commissioner

Paul R. LePage Governor PHONE: (207) 287-3531 (Voice)

Approaching spring will eventually bring Maine’s growing agriculture back into bloom. The first day of spring does not initiate planting season in our northern climate, but it is maple syrup season.

888-577-6690 (TTY) www.maine.gov

FAX: (207) 287-1034

HARLOW BUILDING 18 ELKINS LANE,

PHONE: (207) 287-3200 FAX (207) 287-2400 WEB WWW.MAINE.GOV/DACF

SPRING IN MAINE • Bangor Daily News Special Advertising Section • March 16, 2018

Check out Greenhouse and Nursery Day! The Mid-Maine Greenhouse Growers Association Greenhouse and Nursery Day will be held May 6, 2018. Check out this list of participants!

Ledgewood Gardens 563 Johnson Mill Rd, Orrington, 825-4707, E-mail: ledgewood123@msn.com

Pratt Family Greenhouse 448 Elm St., Newport, 416-6788, E-mail: gabrielpratt18@yahoo.com

Boothbay Region Greenhouses 35 Howard St, Boothbay Harbor, 633-2400, www.boothbayregiongreenhouses.com

The Maine Accent 60 Shady Lane, Hallowell, 622-5017, www.themaineaccent.com

Robin’s Flower Pot 387 Webster Rd, Farmington, 778-5937, www.robinsflowerpot.com

Country Junction Greenhouse 1204 Main Rd, Bradford, 327-1398, www.countryjunctionmaine.com

McKay Farm and Research Station 54 Greenhouse Lane, Thorndike, 952-0370, www.mckay.unity.edu

Through the Garden Gate 436 Exeter Rd., Corinna, 341-0191, E-mail: caddy1@tds.net

Ellis’ Greenhouse 218 Old Town Rd, Hudson, 327-4674, www.ellisgreenhousenursery.com

Orient Gardens 45 Maxell Settlement Rd., Orient, 448-7266, E-mail: bunkyz@mfx.net

Whiting Farm 876 Summer Street, Auburn, 777-5129, www.whitingfarm.org

Hutching’s Greenhouse 445 Riverside Dr (Bradley Rd), Eddington, 989-2705, E-mail: hutchgnhse@yahoo.com

Peaked Mountain Farm 16 Ellery’s Lane, Dedham, 249-5002, www.peakedmountainfarm.biz

Windswept Gardens 1709 Broadway, Bangor, 941-9898, www.windsweptgardens.com

Lake Region Nursery 718 N. High St., Bridgton, 952-0370, www.lakeregionnursery.com

Pooh Corner Farm 36 Bog Road, Bethel, 836-3276, www.poohfarm.com

SPRING IN MAINE • Bangor Daily News Special Advertising Section • March 16, 2018

Maine Maple Sunday

ANDROSCOGGIN COUNTY Blais Maple Syrup

Info and hours: Basic sugar shack tour and explanation of syrup production. Open: March 24 and 25, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. Contact: 4 Ledgeview Road, Greene. 207-576-4354 • mario.blais@yahoo.com blaismaplesyrup.net

Jillson’s Sugarhouse Info and hours: Sugaring process, taffy on snow, buffet breakfast all day 8 – 2 p.m. Hours March 25, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Farm tours, sugarbush tours, restroom facilities, handicapped accessible, bus tours, school tours. Contact: 143 Jordan Bridge Rd, Sabattus. 207-375-4486 • info@jillsonfarm.com www.jillsonfarm.com

Maple Hill Enterprises Info and hours: Come visit us at Maple Hill Enterprises on Saturday, March 24. Tour our sugar house and see how maple syrup is made. Free samples of pure maple syrup over ice cream. There will be syrup, maple candy and maple cotton candy available to purchase. We are handicapped accessible. WE WILL NOT BE OPEN SUNDAY. Contact: 748 Newell Brook Road, Durham. 207-576-8997 • buchertribe@yahoo.com

Ricker Hill Orchards Info and hours: Buffet style breakfast, including crepes, french toast, bacon. Live boiling demonstrations with maple taffy. Maple hard cider, maple donuts, maple ice cream and much more. We will be open for Maine Maple Weekend®. Farm tours, restrooms, handicapped accessible, school and bus tours. Saturday and Sunday March 24 and 25. Contact: 295 Buckfield Road, Turner. 207-225-5552 • apples@rickerhill.com www.rickerhill.com

Russell Farm Info and hours: The sugar house will be boiling sap. We will be selling our maple syrup, maple nuts, maple granola, maple whoopie pies and cookies. Samples of ice cream with syrup. Also serving french toast casserole, pancakes, sausage, bacon, coffee, juice and milk. Hours: March 24, noon – 5 p.m. March 25, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Contact: 46 Russell Rd, Poland. 207-998-4992 or 207-415-7767 thebeckerco@aol.com www.russellfarmmaplebakery.com

West Minot Sugarhouse

Info and hours: Join us March 24 and 25, for Maine Maple Weekend® pancake breakfast, demos at the sugarhouse and horse drawn wagon rides both days. All events will be held both days. Please check our Facebook page for times and prices and other events to be anounced. Farm tours, restrooms and handicapped accessible. Hours: March 24 and 25. Breakfast 7 – 11 a.m. Sugarhouse open 8 a.m. – 3 p.m. Contact: Woodman Hill Road, Minot. 207-966-3643 • slattbake2001@yahoo.com

AROOSTOOK COUNTY

participants

Contact: Macwahoc Plantation • 207-456-7520 pcushman.baskco@gmail.com

The Maple Moose Info and hours: Free taffy on the snow and corn fritters with fresh maple syrup. Door prizes. Take our tree to syrup tour through the sugar bush. Full line of maple products and maple concessions available. Open last two weekends of March and first two weekends in April, 1p.m. – 5 p.m. Farm tours, sugarbush tours, restrooms, handicapped accessible, bus tours, school tours. Hours: March 24-25, noon- 4 p.m. Contact: 28 Bowers Rd, Easton. 207-488-6824 • maplemoosecjk@gmail.com www.themaplemoose.com

Northwoods Nectar L.L.C.

Info and hours: Tours, taffy on the snow, improved parking, larger maple product variety, larger gift shop. Easy access - drive right up to the sugar house. Maple and honey products - gifts. We offer farm and sugarbush tours, restroom facilities, handicapped accessible, school tours encouraged. Open March 24 and 25. Contact: 1426 Sly Brook Road, Eagle Lake Plantation. 207-231-2265 or 207-444-3488 northwoodsnectar@yahoo.com www.northwoodsnectar.com

Rural Pride Info and hours: A visit to our sugar house will let you see state of the art sugar making equipment. We will have syrup sampling, sugar on snow and our farm store will be open. Farm tours, sugarbush tours, bus tours and school tours, restroom facilities and handicapped accessible. Hours: March 24 and 25, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Contact: 181 Sealander Road, Woodland. 207-896-3137 • erthomas@localnet.com

CUMBERLAND COUNTY Balsam Ridge

Info and hours: Join us this year for Maine Maple Weekend®. Visit our rustic sugarhouse and observe maple syrup being produced. Live music provided by Brendan Lake and Chris Lannon. Riverside Wood Carving, by chainsaw artist Greg Waters, and his wife Danielle. Lucas Damen, blacksmith, on Maple Sunday 11 a.m.– 2 p.m. Pancake breakfast sponsored by Raymond Lions Club, offered Saturday and Sunday 9 – 2 p.m. Farm tours, sugarbush tours, portable restroom available, handicapped accessible, school tours. Open Maple Weekend 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Visit our Facebook page for other hours of operation during the season, or by appointment. Contact: 140 Egypt Rd, Raymond. 207-655-4474 • lloy@fairpoint.net www.balsamridgechristmas.com

Spring Break Maple and Honey

Coopers Maple Products

Info and hours: Guided sugarbush tours on Sunday at 1 (dress warm). Tour our sugarhouse and maple candy facility. Sample products, taste test syrup and kids activities. Farm tours, sugarbush tours, restrooms, handicapped accessible, bus tours, school tours. Hours: March 24 and 25, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Contact: 3315 U.S. Rt. 2, Smyrna Mills. 207-757-7373 • info@mainemapleandhoney.com

Info and hours: Maple syrup demonstration all day - see trees tapped with buckets and tubing, sample syrup on ice cream. Walking tour of farm: visit our 28 miniature horses, beef cattle, peacocks, pheasants, and chickens. Maple syrup, candy,maple coated nuts, and maple lollipops for sale. Farm tours, sugarbush tours, restrooms, partially handicapped accessible, bus tours, school tours. Hours: March 24 and 25, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. March 25: Pancake breakfast 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. On Maine Maple Sunday, March 25, Chute Rd is one way traffic only – please enter from River Rd. Contact: 81 Chute Road, Windham. 207-892-7276 • gmcooper81@aol.com www.coopersrhf.com

Sunny Crest Maple Farm Info and hours: Come our sugarhouse Maple Sunday 1 – 5 p.m. Located 3.5 miles south from Rt #2A on Route #171. Enjoy free samples of syrup on ice and taffy on snow. See the process of sap to syrup. Also open Sat. March 31, 1 p.m. – 5 p.m.

Dad’s Maple Sugarshack Info and hours: Come join us for Maine Maple Sunday® Weekend. We are open to the public Saturday, March 24 and Sunday March 25, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. We are a small farm tapping around 800 trees using tubing and traditional buckets. Come see the boiling in our sugarhouse and sample our maple goodies. We also have farm animals for viewing. Sugarhouse is open year round, while supplies last. Contact: 1061 Naples Road, Harrison. 207-890-8025 or 207-890-6314 Dadsmaplesugarshack@yahoo.com

Greene Maple Farm Info and hours: Open March 24 and 25. Come tour our sugarhouse both Saturday and Sunday 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. Free sample of maple syrup on ice cream. Maple syrup, honey, maple salsa, pastured pork, grass-fed Highland beef, and more for purchase. Throughout the year, visit our farm store at 723 Bridgton Road, Sebago. Open Saturdays 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. Farm Tours, sugarbush tours, restroom facilities, bus tours, school tours. Not handicapped accessible. Contact: 77 Bridgton Road, Sebago. 207-232-1196 • atgreenetractor@yahoo.com

Jim’s Sugar House Info and hours: Open house with maple syrup on ice cream, maple syrup, maple sugar, maple lollipops and maple nuts. Open March 24 and 25, 9 a.m.– 3 p.m. Contact: 296 Maple Ridge Road, Harrison. 207-449-6511 • jimssugarhouse@hotmail.com

Merrifield Farm Info and hours: Watch the boiling process, blacksmith working, antiques on display, 4-H Brass Knob Club giving cart rides, music, self guided barn tour, play area for the children and a 1900’s ice house. Pancake breakfast (outside), maple syrup, candy, maple cotton candy, maple soft serve ice cream, smoked cheese, maple cream and more available to purchase. Farm tours, sugarbush tours, school tours and handicapped accessible. Portable restrooms available. Hours: March 24 and 25, 9 a.m.– 4 p.m. Contact: 195 N Gorham Rd, Gorham. 207-892-5061 • merfarm@aol.com

Parsons Maple Products Info and hours: SAP boiler will be running all day for maple syrup making demonstrations. Pancake breakfast with our freshly made syrup, served 8:00 a.m. to noon. Free samples of our syrup over ice cream. Heated indoor seating. Maple products for sale. Sugarbush tours, bus tours, school tours, restrooms and handicapped

SPRING IN MAINE • Bangor Daily News Special Advertising Section • March 16, 2018 accessible. Hours: March 25, 7 a.m. – 5 p.m. Contact: 322 Buck Street, Gorham. 207-831-4844

Sweet William’s Info and hours: Detailed explanation of syrup making process. Sugarbush tours available. Free samples of our syrup on ice cream, homemade maple baked beans and fried dough bites. Maple treats for sale - maple butter,cotton candy, lollipops, popcorn and more. Maple doughnuts and other maple baked goods while they last. Free balloons and face painting. Pancake breakfast 8-noon at Crescent Lake Community Hall. Sugarbush tours, shool tours, restrooms and handicapped accessible. Open March 25, 9 a.m.– 4 p.m. Contact: 66 Spiller Road, Casco. 207-627-7362 • ssymonds@maine.rr.com

The Lockman Place Info and hours: Small batches of maples syrup made by guys and a gal who love this stuff. Our syrup is certified Kosher by the Rabbi of Congregation Shaarey Tphiloh in Portland. We have a simple, small operation that’s only open on Maine Maple Sunday®. Farm tours, sugarbush tours, handicapped accessible. Hours: March 25, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Contact: 274 N Gorham Rd, Gorham. 207-892-9432 • james@jameslockman.com www.facebook.com/thelockmanplace/

FRANKLIN COUNTY Day Mountain Maple

Info and hours: Watch as we make pure Maine maple syrup using a 4x10 wood fired evaporator without steam hoods. Tours of the sugarbush on a tractor drawn sled. Samples of maple products and refreshments. Find us on Rte 4, 2 miles south of Strong, 7/10 mile north of Tyler’s Body Shop. Watch for signs. Sugarbush and farm tours available; restrooms. Hours: March 25, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Contact: 399 Farmington Rd, Strong. 207-778-2716 • daymtnmaple@yahoo.com

Hall Farms Maple Products Info and hours: For more info, please visit Hallfarms.com Contact: 985 U.S. Highway 2, Dixfield. 207-645-2862 • rodney@hallfarms.com www.HallFarms.com

Jackson Mountain Farm Info and hours: Boiling sap and syrup to taste. Maple goodies. Hot coffee and hot chocolate. Sugarbush and farm tours. Hours: March 25, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. Contact: Orchard Hill Road, Temple. 207-846-4570 • jhodgkins5@myfairpoint.net

Maple Hill Farm Info and hours: Self- guided sugarbush tour and boiling demonstration in the sugarhouse. Maple syrup and products for sale along with a gift table. Call for description of events. Open March 24, 11a.m. – 4 p.m. and March 25, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Contact: 390 Titcomb Hill Road, Farmington. 207-778-4506

Maple Valley Farm Inc Info and hours: Maple syrup, taffy and candy for sale. Complimentary ice cream with syrup, coffee, maple coated peanuts and maple taffy on snow. Farm tours, restrooms, handicapped accessible, bus and school tours. Hours: March 25, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Contact: 1304 Franklin Rd, Jay. 207-645- 2328 • icouture@roadrunner.com

Mystic Valley Maples Info and hours: Old fashioned wood fired evaporator experience. Free snacks and Ice cream with maple syrup. Tours: bus and school. Handicapped accessible. Hours: March 24 and 25, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. Contact: 770 US RT 2, West Wilton. 207-645-4481 • jimharvell@yahoo.com

of maple being boiled with a wood fired evaporator. Sample maple syrup on ice cream! Maple syrup for sale and hot beverages available. Sugarbush tours, school tours and restrooms. Hours: March 25, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Contact: 148 Bog Brook Road, China. 207-968-2005 • gailtbbtts@yahoo.com

Wilson Family Maple Syrup Info and hours: Open both Saturday and Sunday. Maple syrup demonstrations, sugarbush tours, weather permitting. Plenty of Maple products. Farm tours, sugarbush tours, restrooms, handicapped accessible,bus and school tours. Hours: March 24 and 25, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Contact: 652 Benton Rd, Albion. 207-453-6969 • maplesyrup@roadrunner.com

Y’s Farm Info and hours: Come see how maple syrup is made in our backyard sugar shack and enjoy a sample of maple syrup over ice cream. Syrup will be available for sale. Maine Maple Sunday® 9a.m. – 4 p.m. Contact: 447 North Pond Road, Winslow. 207-872-6857 • lawnman432001@yahoo.com

KENNEBEC COUNTY

KNOX COUNTY

Info and hours: Boiling demonstrations, free samples of ice cream with syrup, coffee,donuts and hot chocolate. Handicapped accessible. Bus and school tours. Hours: March 25, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Contact: 132 Borough Rd, Jay. 207-758-0713 • plaisted.farm@gmail.com

Info and hours: Self-guided tour through sugarbush, demonstrations in sugarhouse. Free samples of syrup on ice cream. Pancake Breakfast Sunday only, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Restrooms available, school tours welcome. Hours: March 24 and 25, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Contact: 673 Razorville Road, Washington. 207-446-2408 • blueberryfieldsbandb@gmail.com www.blueberryfieldsbandb.com

Plaisted Farm Maple Products

Cobbs Hill Sugarhouse Info and hours: Come visit one of the prettiest little sugar houses in central Maine. Overlooking the majestic Kennebec Highlands, Cobbs Hill Sugarhouse boils sap gathered in buckets over a traditional wood-fired evaporator. Free ice cream, maple tea, samples and treats. Parking is 100 yards from the sugarhouse - a short walk. March 24 and 25, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Contact: 945 North Road, Mount Vernon. 207-620-2326 • hardwoodnectar@gmail.com

Poulin’s Maple Syrup Info and hours: Sample syrup over ice cream and other free samples of maple recipes. Sugarbush tours and restroom facilities available. Hours: March 25, 10 a.m.– 3 p.m. Contact: 319 Windsor Neck Road, Windsor. 207-592-9051 • mapleman@roadrunner.com

Raiders Sugarhouse Info and hours: Take a short walk to our “Backyard Sugarhouse,” enjoy the sweet aroma

Blueberry Fields Bed and Breakfast

LINCOLN COUNTY Sweetwoods Farm

Info and hours: Sugarbush Tours Available. Contact: 144 Lynch Road, Newcastle. 207-380-5228 • sweetwoodsme@yahoo.com

Tim’s Sugarshack Info and hours: Come and watch a back yard sugar house. Walk through the sugar bush and watch us make syrup on a wood fired evaporator. Enjoy a dish of ice cream with hot syrup and check out all of our different maple products. Sugarbush tours, handicapped accessible, school tours. Hours: March 24, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.; March 25, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Contact: 23 Grand Army Rd, Whitefield. 207-549-5016 • marthatim@roadrunner.com www.grandarmyweather.com

OXFORD COUNTY A Wrinkle in Thyme Farm

Info and hours: Open Saturday and Sunday. Pancake breakfast 8 – 11 a.m. Farm store and sugar house open 8 – 3 p.m. Demonstrations and tours all day – both days. Farm and sugarbush, school and bus tours, restroom facilities and handicapped accessible. Open March 24 and 25, 8 a.m. – 3 p.m. Contact: 106 Black Mountain Road, Sumner. 207-212-4058 • thymefarm321@gmail.com

Cabane A Sucre Bergeron Info and hours: Demonstration and explanation in the complete process of producing maple syrup and maple products. Sugarbush tours. Hours: March 25, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Contact: 431 Merrill Hill Road, Hebron. 207-576-3003 • jbergeron@insabrefractories.com

Dunham Farm - Velvet Hollow Sugar Works Info and hours: We will have our annual pancake breakfast Saturday and Sunday: Gluten free Maine blueberry pancakes, scrambled eggs, bacon and other selections served in our warm sugar house. We operate a dedicated gluten free bakery. Maple syrup and maple confections for sale (gluten free baked goods, mixes, and maple granola.) Both afternoons, we’re serving maple BBQ turkey chili with gluten free cornbread. We’ve been told we have the best view so come and enjoy. We will be boiling sap all day. Restroom. Days/ hours: March 24 and 25, Breakfast: 8a.m - noon; Chili: 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. Sugarhouse demo 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. Contact: 29 Dunham Road, Greenwood. 207-515-0514 • dunhamfarm@msn.com www.dunhamfarmstead.com

Maple Mills, LLC Info and hours: Join our family on Saturday and Sunday. Warm doughnuts and syrup samples. Demonstrations and guided tours. Syrup and other confections available in our gift shop. March 24 and 25, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Contact: 163 Wilson’s Mills Road, Wilson’s Mills • 207-486-9500 • maplemillsllc@yahoo.com

Rocky M Farm Info and hours: Hours: Saturday March 24th Sales only 9 – 3 p.m. Sunday, March 25, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Sample apple crisp or ice cream with maple syrup. Restroom facilities available. Contact: 431 Colcord Pond Road, Porter Plantation. 207-625-8035 • LMetcalf@myfairpoint.net

Sap Hound Maple Company Info and hours: Join us for a fun weekend in our second year of operation! Take a tour of our sugarhouse and see our maple production. Sample some organic maple syrup in our

SPRING IN MAINE • Bangor Daily News Special Advertising Section • March 16, 2018

“maple bunker” and indulge in some maple goodies! Sugarbush tours, restrooms, handicapped accessible, bus and school tours. Hours: March 24 and 25, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. Contact: 414 Center Conway Road, Brownfield. 802-558-5385 • corrie@saphoundmaple.com

PENOBSCOT COUNTY Cider Hill Maple Farm

Info and hours: Information on how maple syrup is produced from tree to table. Equipment demonstrations, snacks, maple syrup tasting and more. Sugarbush tour by appointment. Restroom facilities available. Handicapped accessible. School Tours available. Hours: Maine Maple Sunday 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Contact: 247 Cider Hill Road, Exeter. 207-270-2130 • ciderhillmaple@yahoo.com

Lucerne Maple Products Info and hours: Watch maple syrup being made. Sample foods made with Maine maple syrup. Hours: March 25, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Contact: 252 Lower Dedham Road, Holden. 207-951-3702 Mark 207-745-0253 Tim lucerenemp@gmail.com

Maine-Lee Maple Info and hours: Showing our maple syrup operation at the sugar house. Free samples of our maple products. Stop in and try some maple cream and maple cotton candy. Dress warm and have fun! Farm and sugarbush tours available. Restroom Facilities. Hours: Sunday March 25, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Contact: 602 Arab Road, Lee. 207-538-8847 • maineleemaplejess@yahoo.com

Maxwell’s Maple Syrup Info and hours: See how maple syrup is processed over a wood-fired boiler. Sample our maple syrup over ice cream. Farm and sugarbush tours; school and bus tours. Hours: March 24 and 25, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Contact: 3142 Lee Road, Lee. 207-794-5465 • amax69@hotmail.com

Nutkin Knoll Farm and Sugarworks Info and hours: Scenic family farm,wood fired evaporator, antique barn, farm animals with spring lambs. Sugarbush tours in award winning managed wood lot. Syrup on ice cream, maple milk, free samples. Maple cotton candy, maple molded candies, fresh syrup, maple coated peanuts available to purchase. Wear boots and outdoor clothes for fun in the snow and mud of springtime in Maine. Sugarbush tours, restrooms, school and bus tours. Hours: March 24, noon – 5 p.m., March 25, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Contact: 269 Chapman Rd, Newburgh. 207-234-7268 • nutkin@uninets.net www.maine-christmas-trees.com

PISCATAQUIS COUNTY Bakers Maple Syrup

Info and hours: Tours of maple trees and sap house and samples. Farm, sugarbush and school tours. Hours: March 25, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. Contact: 26 North Road, Shirley. 207-717-7372 or 207-695-2460 • bakersmaple@gmail.com www.sites.google.com/site/bakersmaplesyrup/home

Breakneck Ridge Farm Info and hours: Come on over for crock pot french toast, sap tea, maple syrup over ice cream, pork marinated in maple italian dressing. We’re open during the warmest part of the day. Steve will be boiling at the sugar house. A great time to pick up your stash of Maine Maple Syrup. Contact: 160 Mountain Road, Abbot. 207-977-3922 • breakneckridgefarm@gmail.com

SAGADAHOC COUNTY Cafro’s Maple

Info and hours: Syrup making demonstrations and syrup sales. Pancake breakfast 9 – 11 am. Farm, bus and school tours available. Restroom facilities, handicapped accessible. Hours: March 25, 9 a.m. – 4 pm. Contact: 288 Chopps Cross Road, Woolwich. adam@cafrosmaple.com • www.cafrosmaple.com

Maine-iac Maple Farm Info and hours: Watch maple syrup made the old fashion way on wood fired evaporator, walk the sugarbush and try ice cream with syrup. Sugarbush tours available. Hours: March 25, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. Contact: 56 Mitchell Road, Richmond. 207-229-2590 • mcmeagher@gmail.com

Real Good Maple Syrup Info and hours: Maple syrup and other maple products for sale. Free ice cream cup with warm maple syrup. Quick sugarhouse and sugarbush tours. Hours: Sunday, March 25, 9 – 3 p.m. Contact: 326 Post Road, Bowdoinham. 207-666-3343 or 207-449-2654 wwells9@myfairpoint.net

SOMERSET COUNTY

Contact: 198 Webb Road, Pittsfield. anthony@corsonfarms.com

Eureka Farms Info and hours: We will be boiling. Horse drawn sleigh rides, maple candy, maple popcorn, maple donuts, Gifford’s ice cream with maple syrup. Restrooms, handicapped accessible. Farm, sugarbush and school tours. Hours: March 24 and 25, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Contact: 220 Shy Road, Palmyra. (207) 944-2186 • info@eurekafarmsmaine.com

Haulk’s Maple Info and hours: See maple syrup being made, witness the use of filter press, get your questions answered. Maple goodies available to sample: ice cream with maple syrup, baked beans, hot dogs, coffee, cookies, breads, and more. Buy maple products like maple syrup, maple cream, maple candy, maple breads, and maple sugar. Farm and sugar house tours. Restrooms, handicapped accessible, school tours and bus tours. Hours: March 24, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m., March 25, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Contact: 882 Lakewood Rd, Madison. 207-474-8047 • haulksmaple@gmail.com

Hay’s Maple Shack Info and hours: We are a small family run sugar house nestled on Lord’s Hill in Athens. We have over 750 taps between pipeline and buckets. Come see our traditional wood fired evaporator and sample some maple treats and coffee. Open Maine Maple Sunday, weekends or whenever boiling. Sugarbush tours and school tours. Open March 24 and 25, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Contact: 54 Lords Hill Circle, Athens. 207-654-3804 • galhay@tds.net

Luce’s Saphouse Info and hours: Come help us celebrate 35 years of Maine Maple Sunday®. Saphouse tours, see how maple syrup is made, maple treats to sample and buy, maple sausage, maple cotton candy, ice cream with maple syrup and more! Sugarbush tours, restrooms, handicapped accessible, bus and school tours on Maple Sunday. Hours: March 25. Contact: 54 Sugar Maple Drive, Anson. 207-696-3732 • info@mainefarmbrands.com

Corson Farms

Moscow Maple

Info and hours: The Corson family welcomes you to our annual open house. Come see our ever expanding 4,000 tap business and how syrup is made. Take a tour, ask questions and enjoy our free samples. We will have a variety of treats and syrup for sale as well. Restrooms and plenty of parking. 1/2 mile down off Main Road. March 24 and 25, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Info and hours: Come join us on Maple Sunday and sample some Moscow Maple Syrup along with a tour of our sugar house and how we make maple syrup. Restroom facilities, handicapped accessible. Open Maple Sunday 9 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Contact: 1451 Canada Road, Moscow. 207-592-5320 or 207-592-5220 moscowmaple2@gmail.com

North Star Orchards Info and hours: Maple syrup and apples – a great combination! You will find them both and much more when you visit our post and beam sugar house and farm store. We plan to boil sap in our wood-fired evaporator on weekend days throughout the season, including Maine Maple Sunday®. Our store is open year round on Saturday and Sunday 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Information about boiling times and other activities will be posted on our Facebook page - phone calls welcome. Farm and sugarbush tours. Restrooms, handicapped accessible. Hours: March 24, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., March 25, 9 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Contact: 97 Orchard Road, Madison. 207-696-5109 • northstarorchards@gmail.com

Sawyer’s Maple Farm Info and hours: Weather allowing, we will be boiling syrup. Maple products for sale and sugarhouse tours. Farm tours, school tours, and restrooms. Hours: March 25. Contact: 45 Head Pond Rd, Jackman Plantation. 207-668-7705 • kurt@sawyersmaple.com

Smith Brothers Maple Info and hours: Sample ice cream with maple syrup and other maple products. Watch maple syrup being made with oil fired evaporator in the traditional method. Visitors are welcome anytime we are boiling. Usually end of February through March. No restroom facilities. Handicapped accessible. Open March 24, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. and Sunday March, 25, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Contact: 52 Rowe Rd, Skowhegan. 207-474-3491 • smithbromaple@gmail.com

Strawberry Hill Farms Info and hours: 10,000+ tap organic maple operation. Outdoor and indoor demonstrations and sampling. Maple producer since before 1840. Farm, sugarbush and school tours. Restroom facilities available. Hours: March 25, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Contact: 163 Rowe Road, Skowhegan. 207-431-1481 • mainemaple@aol.com www.puremaple.com

WALDO COUNTY Beaver Hill Plantation

Info and hours: Events: Maine Maple Sunday® sugarbush tours, wagon rides on both days; syrup making demonstrations on our wood fired evaporator, ice cream with maple syrup, maple goodies, coffee and hot chocolate. Maple syrup for sale. Portable restroom is available and plenty of parking. March 24-25, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Also open for business the Saturday before and after Maine Maple Sunday® weekend.

SPRING IN MAINE • Bangor Daily News Special Advertising Section • March 16, 2018 Contact: Sibley Road, Freedom. 207-382-6129 • sben@fairpoint.net www.beaverhillplantation.com

Simmons and Daughters Maple Syrup Info and hours: Our rustic sugarhouse with wood fired evaporator overlooking the Camden Hills. We will be giving cups of ice cream with maple syrup and selling maple syrup, candy, cotton candy, whoopie pies and other maple treats. Bus and school tours. Hours: March 24 and 25, 10 a.m – 4 p.m. Contact: 261 Weymouth Rd, Morrill. 207-342-2444 • info@simmonsmaple.com

WASHINGTON COUNTY

Chandler’s Sugar Shack LLC Info and hours: Please join us for a tour of our sugarhouse and experience the taste of spring produced by our wood- fired evaporator. Free samples will be available. Sugarbush tours will be offered. Maple products will be available for sale. Sugarbush tours and restrooms. Hours: March 25, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Contact: 1116 US Hwy 6, Kossuth Twp. 207-796-2724 • bart@chandlerssugarshack.com

YORK COUNTY Alderwood Farms Info and hours: Meet and greet. See our NEW Sugarhouse! Contact: 47 Elm Street, Limerick. 207-929-0029 • alderwoodfarmforestry@hotmail. com or vickiecarroll@roadrunner.com

Brookridge Boilers Info and hours: Syrup making demonstration, free syrup sample, maple syrup and maple products for sale including French Canadian favorites. Tire a’l’erable (maple taffy) making demonstration at noon (weather permitting). Farm tours, sugarbush tours, handicapped accessible. Hours: March 25, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Contact: Route 111, Lyman. 207-490-2957 • rachelcecile@gmail.com

Chase Farm

Hilltop Boilers LLC

Info and hours: Come enjoy our wood fired maple syrup making process with free samples. Pancake breakfast. Take a wagon ride with Belgian horses to the sugarbush, faceprinting, visit the animals in the barn, food and much more! Maple products and more available for purchase at out on-site farm market. Farm, sugarbush, bus and school tours. Restroom facilities available and handicapped accessible. Hours: March 24 and 25, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. Contact: 1488 North Berwick Road, Wells. 207-646-7888 • info@chasefarmswells.com www.chasefarmswells.com

Info and hours: Be our special guest for Celebrate Spring Sales Event (March 17, 2018) and Maine Maple Weekend®. Tour our beautiful new sugarhouse and see how our award winning maple syrup is made. On both Saturdays, Axe Women Loggers of Maine will be putting on four demonstrations. See axe throwing, log chopping, and sawing demonstrations in a family friendly atmosphere. Wildlife Encounters will also be with us on both Saturdays for their wildlife exhibits. Enjoy the many contests, samplings, and farm animals that you have come to love. Scratch the pigs, pet a calf, play on a John Deere tractor, enjoy a maple whoopie pie. All activites are FREE. Farm tours, restrooms, handicapped accessible, bus tours, school tours. Date and Time: March 17, and March 24 and 25, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m, March 31, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Contact: 157 Elm St, Newfield. 207-793-8850 • hilltopboilers@myfairpoint.net www.hilltopboilers.com

Dunn Family Maple Info and hours: There will be maple syrup making, sap gathering, sugarbush tours (we get busy, so please ask) syrup sales and food. Farm tours, sugarbush tours, restroom facilities, handicapped accessible, bus and school tours. Hours: March 24 and 25, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Contact: 419 Chicopee Road, Buxton. 207-671-4262 • dunnfamilymaple@gmail.com www.dunnfamilymaple.com

Harris Farm Info and hours: Pancake breakfast made with homemade whole wheat recipe. Maple donuts, candies, syrup, horse drawn wagon/sleigh rides and dairy store. Sugarhouse open for viewing. Farm and sugarbush tours, restrooms, handicapped accessible, school and bus tours. Hours: March 24 and 25, 8 a.m. – 2 p.m. Contact: 280 Buzzell Road, Dayton. 207-499-2678 Farm 207-929-4088 (cell) farmmaine@gmail.com

Hidden Roots Maple Farm Info and hours: Open Sugarhouse with plenty of maple products. Come enjoy our new establishment and share our first year together! Restroom and handicapped accessibile. Open March 24 and 25, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. Contact: 28 Tufts Rd., Limington. 207-206-5206 • storermaple@gmail.com www.hiddenrootsmaple.com

Maple Hill Sugarhouse Info and hours: Sugarbush tours and handicapped accessible. Open March 24 and 25, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Contact: 93 Hicks Road, Newfield. 207-793-2773 • leahdgerry@gmail.com

Maple Moon Farm Info and hours: Sugarbush and school and bus tours. Tour the sugarbush, help collect sap and stoke our wood-fired evaporator. Enjoy maple tea, a pancake made on our 1920’s wood cook stove, and sugar-on-snow. Live music by acoustic duo, Black Water Moon on Sunday afternoon. Products available for purchase: 100% pure maple syrup, maple butter, maple sugar and maple candy. March 24 and 25, 10 a.m.– 4 pm. Contact: 289 Chick Road, Lebanon. 978-376-3032 • maplemoonfarmllc@gmail.com www.maplemoonfarm.com

Morin’s Maple Syrup

how maple syrup is made. Buy our very own maple syrup, goodies that include maple candies, maple sugar cakes, maple cotton candy and our own maple peanuts. Enjoy a nice tractor ride hosted by the Lions Club of Limerick. Can’t wait to see you there! March 25, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. Farm tours, restroom facilities available. Contact: 45 Morin Road, Limerick Plantation. 207-793-8420

Pingree Maple Products Info and hours: Open Saturday’s and Sunday’s the month of March including Maine Maple Sunday®. We will have samples of maple syrup on ice cream and demonstrate how pure maple syrup is produced. Our product line consists of pure Maine maple syrup, maple cream, maple candy and granulated maple sugar, which are for sale the entire year. We can ship maple products for your convenience around the holidays or any time of year. Sign up for door prizes and sample our maple syrup on ice cream. Farm tours, school tours, restrooms and handicapped accessible. Hours: Saturday and Sunday March 24 and 25, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m., or anytime steam is rising! Contact: 90 High Rd, Cornish. 207-625-8584 or 207-651-4118 tpingree@myfairpoint.net

Thurston and Peters Sugarhouse LLC Info and hours: TAPS (Thurston and Peters Sugarhouse) makes maple syrup the new fashioned way (tubing, vacuum, reverse osmosis, oil-fired evaporator) with old fashioned hospitality! Stop by for a tour and sample our maple syrup and maple soft serve! Maple candy, maple cream too! Sugarbush tours, restrooms, handicapped accessible, bus tours, school tours. Hours: All weekends March 3 through March 31. 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Other times by appointment. Contact: 299 Bond Spring Rd, West Newfield. 207793-8040 or 207-793-8886 • taps@metrocast.net thurstonandpeters.com

Info and hours: Please join us for ALL DAY Pancake Breakfast indoors. Demonstrations on

SPRING IN MAINE • Bangor Daily News Special Advertising Section • March 16, 2018

Maple Apple Grilled Cheese Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 8 minutes Servings: 4 1/4 cup maple syrup Pie Spice 1/4 teaspoon McCormick Apple 3 ablespoons butter 8 slices whole-wheat bread (1-ounce slices) 8 slices sharp cheddar cheese le, cored and cut app s 1 medium Golden Deliciou into 16 thin slices chopped 4 slices cooked bacon, coarsely

Have you been considering purchasing a greenhouse? From our 100% solar powered, self contained and automatic watering benches that makes for an almost "hands-off" experience, to our smaller, less sophisticated models, and everything in between, we are sure to have a greenhouse that will meet your needs!

Call us at 207-613-2973 C www.mainegarden.com · wendy@mainegarden.com

Mix maple syrup and apple pie

spice. Set aside.

e. Layer two slices of cheese Butter one side of each bread slic bread slice with buttered side and four slices of apple on each n then drizzle with maple down. Sprinkle with chopped baco ng bread slices with aini syrup mixture. Top with rem buttered side up. or griddle on medium-low Place sandwiches in large skillet until bread is browned or , heat. Cook 3-4 minutes per side if necessary. hes, batc in k and cheese is melted. Coo Source: McCormick, #13961

SPRING IN MAINE • Bangor Daily News Special Advertising Section • March 16, 2018

Honk and Read for Maine!

COURTESY OF MAINE AG IN THE CLASSROOM

his March, the grassroots program Maine Ag in the Classroom (MAITC) will match farmers and others involved in Maine agriculture with classrooms across the state to share the story of Maine agriculture thanks to the Maine agricultural specialty license plate. That story is part of a larger, nearly decade-long story taking place in classrooms across Maine. It is a story guided by other stories—some written, some spoken. It includes volunteers and educators working to share even more stories and information about the role agriculture plays in the quality of place and space in rural communities and their economy. The heart of the story is the program, Read “ME” Agriculture, an annual event organized by Maine Ag in the Classroom.

Mainers of all ages support this memorable program that has reached more than 100,000 pre-k through fourth grade students in more than 700 classrooms across the state since Read “ME” Agriculture began in 2008. Each year, teachers, farmers and others in agriculture gather at area schools for a day to read a book—this year, the theme is apples, and the book, “Applesauce Day,” by Lisa Amstutz, is illustrated by Talitha Shipman. The book features one of Maine’s specialty crops. Past themes included wild blueberries, agriculture in Maine, dairying, aquaculture and agriculture in Maine. Classrooms receive the book as a donation, along with lesson plans that relate to various disciplines. Volunteers reading at participating classrooms can provide some additional first-

PHOTOS COURTESY OF MAINE AG IN THE CLASSROOM

hand experience. Farmers and others working in Maine agriculture who volunteer to visit classrooms and read the stories also share their insight about the role of Maine farms in rural communities. Each classroom receives a donated copy of the book, with lesson ideas and links to online materials from volunteer readers in Maine agriculture. In addition to Read “ME” Agriculture, MAITC also provides other agricultural education opportunities for Maine classrooms. Grants are distributed to educational programs for over $60,000 in four different categories including: school gardens and greenhouses, agricultural awareness and agricultural leadership. Learn more about the Read “ME” Agriculture program and MAITC, at agclassroom.org/me.

SPRING IN MAINE • Bangor Daily News Special Advertising Section • March 16, 2018

Maine is Growing New Gardeners!

COURTESY OF PLANT SOMETHING MAINE AND THE MAINE LANDSCAPE & NURSERY ASSOCIATION

aine kids are playing an important role in creating a new generation of Maine growers. At Plant Something Maine, an important part of our mission is cultivating the next generation of farmers, landscape designers, community gardeners, and stewards, and to increase their awareness of the role that planting, growing, and agriculture plays in the economy and their community. There’s no better time to get kids rooted in planting than springtime! Tom Estabrook, owner of Estabrook’s in Yarmouth and Kennebunk and chairman of Plant Something Maine, believes that “when kids are involved in garden-based learning programs, not only do they develop an interest in growing, getting outside, and learning about where food comes from, but their parents take an interest as well, beginning a chain of improved quality of life in neighborhoods and communities.” Garden-based learning uses school-based or community-based gardens and agricultural operations as a platform to get kids engaged in learning through hands-on activities and teach them about many different disciplines at once. Garden-based learning strengthens academic, social and life skills in areas of nutrition, leadership, and decision-making. In Maine, many organizations are doing important work in agricultural education. Maine

Agriculture in the Classroom helps Maine kids improve their agricultural literacy, Maine School Garden Network promotes and supports educational gardens for youth, and ReTreeUs plants orchards with local schools and provides educational programs that empower young people and their families to grow their own home orchards and gardens. Why should Maine kids plant something? • Keeps kids active through wholesome and fun activities • Provides fresh, nutritious food and teaches them about local food reliance • Enhances kids’ well-being and reduces stress • Activities are tied to learning achievements such as ecological skills, science skills and more • Establishes a sense of stewardship • Builds essential social and life skills • Helps kids understand the link between plants and the world around them • Instills a sense of pride • Helps kids’ families stay active and involved in growing so they can benefit as well! Are you an educational organization interested in partnering with Plant Something Maine? Contact us at don@plantsomethingmaine.org.

SPRING IN MAINE • Bangor Daily News Special Advertising Section • March 16, 2018

4 Great Reasons to Plant Something this Summer!

BY PLANT SOMETHING! MAINE AND THE MAINE LANDSCAPE & NURSERY ASSOCIATION

Plant for Better Health: These days, most of us are spending way too much time indoors, and a lot of that time is spent in front of a screen. This usually means we are sitting still and socially isolated. It’s bad for the eyes, body, as well as our social engagement system. Developing a healthy hobby that gets you outdoors, gets you moving, and helps encourage social interaction is one way to be more active. Gardening helps maintain a healthy weight and does wonders for mental health. It’s calming, and it has been found to reduce stress, improve mood and support brain health as we age. Those who plant have improved nutrition as well and tend to eat more fruits and vegetables. Plant for Economic Value: Planting something around your home could increase your property value as much as 15 percent. Even if you aren’t selling immediately, most landscaping projects take time to plan, plant, install and mature. It’s an investment in your home like any other, one that will increase with time. Find landscapers and garden centers closest to you with our Directory at www.plantsomethingmaine.org.

Plant for The Environment: Adding vegetation around your home can reduce storm runoff, remove carbon dioxide from the air, decrease pollutants from the air and soil, and preserve the natural environment for wildlife, birds, and valuable insects. We created a special campaign this year for the Maine Flower Show called “Plant a Pollinator Garden!” and will continue giving away our Mystery Seed Packets at the 2018 Maine Flower Show on March 22-25 in Portland! Plant for Your Community: Gardening can also be a great way to engage with your community. Why not plant an extra row of veggies to donate to your local food bank? Perhaps you’d like to organize an annual seed swap with your neighbors or plan a day to beautify your town with sidewalk or roadside plantings or even a community garden. Any of these activities will get you outdoors, providing a healthy dose of sunshine, soil, and social connection.

2018 Spring in Maine Publisher: Richard J. Warren Editor: Matthew Chabe Special Sections Sales: Jeff Orcutt, Linda Hayes Creative Manager: Michele Dwyer Creative Services: Amy Allen, Marcie Coombs, Coralie Cross, Ben Cyr, Callie Picard, Carolina Rave

SPRING IN MAINE • Bangor Daily News Special Advertising Section • March 16, 2018

Maple Facts for Maine 1. Season, Duration and Setup:

4. Celebrate and Learn! Maine Maple Sunday:

• Maple season begins when the night temperature is below freezing and the daytime temperatures are about 40-45° F. As temperatures rise into the 40s, syrup making begins. - Ideal is 40° F in the day and 20° F at night. Syrup season = Mud season. • A good yield is about 1 - 2 quarts of syrup per tap. • Taps are set at 1 tap per 12 inches of tree diameter. • To make maple syrup, you must reduce sap from about 40 parts to 1, depending on the sweetness of the sap. About 40 gallons of sap will provide one gallon of syrup. • Sugarmakers take pride in striving for the best quality syrup possible. • Sap is perishable so sap must be boiled down to syrup quickly. • Keeping equipment clean makes the best tasting and lightest colored syrup. • Ultimately, Mother Nature is in control and as the season progresses, syrup often gets darker and more robustly flavored.

This day is always the fourth Sunday in March and usually happens at midseason. It is a special day set aside to connect with the public about maple syrup and the syrup-making process. Many sugarmakers are open both days of the weekend. Wear your boots! Over 100 sugarhouses are open with samples, demonstrations, tours, meals. • March 25, 2018 is the 35th anniversary of Maine Maple Sunday® • For a map of sugarhouses and links to social media open go to: www.mainemapleproducers.com • You can also get maple information, buy fresh products & meet the producers via their websites.

The season usually lasts 4 to 6 weeks with about 15 good sap flow days.

2. Maine Maple Statistics:

• Sugarbushes provide a source of a natural sweetener, wildlife habitat, pulpwwod, firewood, jobs, sustainable incomes and sustainable forest management for the communities in which they are found. • Maine has about 1.3 million acres of land with 38.5 million maple trees that could be tapped to produce Amaple syrup. • 709,000 gallons were produced last year, worth $20.25 million • Maine’s industry has an annual statewide economic Acontribution, including multiplier effects, of an Aestimated $48.7 million in output, 805 full-and partAtime jobs, and $25.1 million in labor income. • Maine has the third largest syrup industry in this country. Maine has the largest maple - producing county in the country – Somerset County • Maine has around 1.89 million taps • A quart of syrup weighs about 2.75 pounds

Maine has about 450 licensed producers of maple syrup and syrup products.

3. Color Coded—What Does it Mean?

• All Maine syrup is Grade A and the different grades have different uses. Golden Color/Delicate Taste syrup = value added products like candy and cream and is also good on ice cream, Amber Color/Rich Taste and Dark Color/Robust Taste = Table syrup because of the full bodied and well balanced maple flavor, Very Dark Color/Stong Taste = Ingredient for cooking because of its strong maple flavor that blends well with other flavors.

5. Maine,s Official Sweetener!

• Maple is the most nutrient dense sweetener and has been discovered to contain antioxidents and phenolic compounds thought to provide health benefits. Pure maple syrup is a 100% natural food. The sap is a clear liquid, which provides the trees with water and nutrients prior to the buds and leaves opening in the spring. In the boiling and filtering processes, all the nutrients remain in the syrup. Sugars: Sugars are an important source of energy. The main sugar in pure maple syrup is sucrose - 88-89%. The darker grades contain small and variable amounts of fructose and glucose from 0-11%. Minerals: Minerals have nutritional functions in the body’s metabolism. In pure, filtered maple syrup the main minerals present are: calcium, potassium, manganese, magnesium, phosphorus, and iron. Vitamins: In pure maple syrup trace amounts of vitamins are present, mainly B2 (riboflavin), B5 (pantothenic acid), B6 (pyridoxine), niacin, biotin, and folic acid. Total Solids: The total solids in pure maple syrup are 66.5%, with the remaining 33.5% being water. • Maple Syrup has 50 calories per tablespoon. • To substitute maple syrup for sugar in a recipe use ¾ cup of syrup for a cup of sugar and decrease the dominate liquid, milk or water, by 3 tablespoons. Decrease the cooking temperature by 250 F because baked goods brown quicker as the syrup carmelizes. You can find recipe suggestions on the Maine Maple Producers website, Facebook page, Pinterest page and Twitter feed.

SPRING IN MAINE • Bangor Daily News Special Advertising Section • March 16, 2018

Celebrate Maine Maple Sunday

SPRING IN MAINE • Bangor Daily News Special Advertising Section • March 16, 2018

MELNA / Plant Something Maine Upcoming Events PORTLAND Premiere Night for 2nd Annual Maine Flower Show, presented by the Maine Landscape and Nursery Association, March 21, 6:30 p.m. – 9 p.m. at Thompson’s Point in Portland. Benefits Good Shepherd Food Bank. Premiere Night kicks off the festive fourday event by providing an exclusive first look at the talented participants whose attentiongrabbing displays are highpoints of the show. Features more than a dozen cash awards in many categories including native plants, annuals, and hardscape. Enjoy hors d’oeuvres, cash bar, music and mingling with fellow horticulture enthusiasts. $50 per person, buy online at http://bit.ly/2svDW7X. PORTLAND 2nd Annual Maine Flower Show, presented by the Maine Landscape and Nursery Association, March 22 – March 25 at Thompson’s Point in Portland. Benefits Good Shepherd Food Bank. Featuring 14 vibrant display gardens on the theme “Rooted in Maine,” this year’s show will also include 120 exhibits of plants, hardscape, arbor, and garden supplies, as well as hands-on workshops and seminars led by experts in growing and outdoor living. Doors open at 10 a.m. $20 general admission, includes free parking. FMI: www.maineflowershow.com. ED ZELINSKY FOR MELNA

SOUTH PARIS McLaughlin Garden & Homestead Winter Lecture Series, March 7 – April 4, Wednesdays from 4 p.m. – 5 p.m. McLaughlin Home, 97 Main St., South Paris. Sessions are free and open to the public. FMI: email info@mclaughlingarden.org or call (207) 743-8820. STATEWIDE Plant Something! Weekend 2018, June 22 – June 24. Maine’s local Independent Garden Centers (IGCs) are hosting Plant Something Weekend to help you kick off the gardening season with the latest and greatest plants, shrubs and trees, expert advice and just about everything you need to succeed when you plant. To find your local IGC and get information on special discounts and giveaways, visit www.plantsomethingmaine.org/ get-planting/.

ED ZELINSKY FOR MELNA

CAPE ELIZABETH Cape Elizabeth Garden Tour 2018, July 14, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. at Fort Williams Park. Tour private and public coastal Maine gardens in Cape Elizabeth and South Portland, starting at the Children’s Garden and Cliff Walk Landscape in Fort Williams Park. Early-bird tickets are $30, $40 at the door. FMI: https://fortwilliams.org/product/garden-tour-2018tickets/ for tickets and more information.

SPRING IN MAINE • Bangor Daily News Special Advertising Section • March 16, 2018

Cabbage Cultivation Contest Inspires

Home Gardening and Cooking

olden Elementary School student Aidan Howe cultivated a cabbage as part of a program that helps third-graders and their teachers across the country learn about gardening, healthy eating, and the environment. Holden Elementary teacher Jacquie Palmer signed up for the program, which is an annual education event for elementary students across the country. A seedling donated by Bonnie Plants is given to each student to cultivate for the growing season. At the end of the season, teachers from each participating class select the student who has grown the “best” cabbage, based on size and appearance. The winner receives a $1,000 prize from Bonnie Plants. In 2017, more than 4,000 students across Maine participated in the program. “The program aims to directly expose children to agriculture and demonstrates, through hands-on experience, where food comes from. The program also affords our youth with some valuable life lessons in nurture, nature, responsibility, self-confidence and accomplishment,” said Stan Cope, Bonnie Plants’ president. This year’s winner, Aidan, had a memorable experience learning, growing, and eating the cabbage he cultivated. Aidan’s family tilled a spot in the yard last April, and Aidan and his uncle built a four-by-four-foot raised bed for the cabbage seedling. Aidan mixed in extra soil and planted his cabbage plant. He laid mulch all around to retain moisture, and checked his plant every day for bugs and disease. He watered it when needed and used plant food every 10-14 days. “Aidan did the maintenance and upkeep on his own and has gained incredible knowledge and appreciation for the earth. He has further taken responsibility of caring for the rest of our garden,” said Aidan’s mom. In addition to learning about how to grow in a backyard garden, the family enjoyed Aidan’s cabbage with a few recipes and delicious meals. The cabbage was harvested last July, and weighed seven pounds, 12 ounces. Aidan thought the cabbage looked bigger than it was, said his mother, “but Aidan was pleased that we were going to eat it that night. We sautéed the cabbage in butter and vinegar. We also made cabbage rolls in the crock pot and enjoyed that as well.” The outer leaves were taken to a friend’s farm and fed to pigs and horses. “This was a very pleasing experience not only for Aidan, but our whole family.”

March 19-23, 2018 March 25, 2018 April 22, 2018 April 28, 2018 May 20, 2018 June 7, 2018 June 26 - 29, 2018 May 17, 2018 July 22, 2018

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE HOWE FAMILY.

Aidan Howe of Eddington, a Holden Elementary School student, recently won the Bonnie Plants Cabbage Contest for Maine. More than 4,000 students participate statewide as part of the national contest that encourages students to learn about where food comes from and how to grow it. Winners are selected at random from the best-of-the best and receive a $1,000 award.

Save the date!

Read “ME” Agriculture Maine Maple Sunday® Earth Day Maine School Garden Day Maine Academy of Natural Sciences Hinckley, ME Maine Arbor Day Maine Ag in the Classroom Grant Applications Due National Agriculture in the Classroom Conference Portland, ME Northeast Livestock Expo Kids Day — Windsor Fairgrounds, Windsor, ME Open Farm Day— Statewide

Find other farm, food and agriculture events at getrealMaine.com!

SPRING IN MAINE • Bangor Daily News Special Advertising Section • March 16, 2018

Rooted in Maine:

2nd Annual Maine Flower Show returns to Portland March 22-25!

COURTESY OF PLANT SOMETHING! MAINE AND THE MAINE LANDSCAPE & NURSERY ASSOCIATION

pring is fast approaching! The milder temperatures and longer days are reminders that winter will soon be ending.

In anticipation of the second annual Maine Flower Show, taking place March 22-25 at Thompson’s Point in Portland, producers across Maine are working to “force grow” many of the plants and bulbs that will be used to bring the “Rooted in Maine”-themed display gardens to life.

PHOTO COURTESY OF PLANT SOMETHING! MAINE.

Jeffrey Marstaller of Cozy Acres Greenhouses in Yarmouth explains the layout of a “cold greenhouse,” used to slow down the force growing process. Four sodium vapor lights give plants that need extra light the equivalent of full sun for four hours each night, leading up to the Maine Flower Show and the start of the spring sales season.

Forcing plants and flowers to bloom and leaf out in the depth of winter is a tricky science, involving much more work than people may realize. To explain the process, Plant Something! Maine visited Cozy Acres Greenhouses in Yarmouth, Maine, and spoke with Jeffrey Marstaller as he prepared for the show. Walking into a heated greenhouse, Marstaller explained some of the plants being force grown ahead of the Maine Flower Show and the start of the spring sales season. “We have a number of woody plants here – some birches, spruce, apples, and number of other things (blueberries, etc.),” said Marstaller. According to Marstaller, after 1-3 weeks depending on conditions, the plants start to break bud. “Some plants flower, some don’t,” said Marstaller, “so different plants are different, as far as how easy they are to work for forcing for the show. The woody plants we have, some have been in since Christmas, some we got in two weeks ago.” The plants are monitored throughout their stay in the heated greenhouse, until such time they reach a ready point ahead of the show. “Except for day length and light intensity, which are out of our control, the plants feel they’re in growing season so they start to bud and break flower,” says Marstaller. Once the plants reach a point where they are ready enough for the show, the growers will move the plants into a “cold house” typically set at 60 degrees Fahrenheit to slow down the process. At plantsomethingmaine.org, you can watch Jeff’s full tour and buy tickets to see the process come full circle at the Maine Flower Show. We hope to see you there!

PHOTO COURTESY OF ED ZELINKSY