Heatwave boosts plant growth, challenges baker

While some people are struggling to stay cool during the intense heat this summer, some plants are thriving in the hot and humid conditions. 

Brian Penner at FTF Farms is growing produce to sell at summer markets and he says the plants are starting to look good. 

“Our beans are blooming real well right now, our cucumbers are coming along, so by the end of July we should be seeing some good stuff coming out of there.” 

Penner says the warm weather is having a positive impact on the plants. 

“The lack of heat was the biggest struggle this spring. We have real sandy soil out at FTF where we are, so the water disappears pretty quickly.” 

Meanwhile, the hot and humid weather has created some challenges for his daughter Caitlin and her baking plans for summer markets. She tries to get her work done during the cooler times of the day. 

“I usually start early in the mornings, I’m up at 6:30 every day. We don’t have AC in our house, so I have a fan going and I have all the curtains closed. I try to get my baking done as early as I can. If not, then I wait until the evening and get it done then.” 

Caitlin Penner enjoys getting ready for the summer markets, even if it means heating up the house during a heatwave.

Her enthusiasm cannot be dampened by the heat. She is excited to attend a lot of markets this summer, regardless of the weather. 

More hot and humid conditions to end the weekend, and then it should be cooler for Monday before it heats up again.