We're hooked! We love our CSA experience, even though we're generally a meat-and-potatoes family.
Freshness and flavor, first. The spinach and fresh greens are so good, they rarely make it past the first 48 hours after box pickup. Peppers, asparagus and heirloom tomatoes have convinced us to eat in season, or not at all. And the cantaloupe? It's only May, but my mouth is watering in anticipation.
Responsiveness, second. Alan and company do their very best to work out any problems--and we should know. Our home has hosted one of their drop sites for a couple of growing seasons; it's nice to know somebody listens when a member has a problem.
That's why some of the previous reviews--written at times when we've been a member--really surprised me. On reflection, I think the issues they raise are more those of "CSA newbies" who may not understand what to expect.
Yes, this produce is coming straight from a farm, so it will contain garden dirt. (That's why God invented kitchen sinks, if you know what I mean!) A good salad spinner makes short work of it.
I appreciate the fresh herbs, and even though our household of two holds a medium share, it's easy to dry or freeze any extras for later use. (Household tip: place fresh-chopped herbs in ice cube trays and add water. Place in freezer; dump cubes into plastic bags when frozen hard. Add to soups, casseroles or sauces for instant fresh flavor!)
Wilting? Well, we live in an area that sees 100+ degree days. A nice soak in the kitchen sink refreshes just about any wilted veggie and makes it cleaner to store in the refrigerator.
Bottom line: if you're eager to live the CSA lifestyle--and have no illusions that you're getting supermarket-packaged produce--you can't go wrong with Schreiber and Sons.