As we look forward to 2024, here are a few things to know. Cowsmo has a good supply of well-composted compost on hand that was made in 2023. We piled our last three windrows on the finished pile in early January. We will begin composting again in February, when it is warm enough, to prepare for 2025.
The supply chain issues we faced in previous years, including trucking delays and many pandemic-caused problems, seem to be behind us. However, we have begun reluctantly to assess the issue of interest on accounts unpaid after 30 days. As always seems to happen, some people abuse the credit we extend and have used us as a bank. Moving forward, the rate will be 18% on balances past 30 days.
Last year was quite dry here and our compost has been piled a bit drier than most years. We store everything outside. This means if we get a lot of snow, it will melt into the compost, which will add moisture.
Potting soil has also been working well over the last year, and we continue sourcing our ingredients from trusted suppliers. In addition, the compost we use is about a year old. Over the past fall, we experienced issues with our compost turner, which we use to blend our potting soils. We found an alternative solution by using a mixer behind a tractor until it was fixed. We anticipate fewer problems with our redesigned turner.
New retail bags are here! We must buy in 12,000 bag quantities with a 4-5 months lead time. This year, we have adjusted the weight and volume of the bags to better reflect the actual amount in them. They now read 1.5 cubic feet and 45 pounds.
The trucking companies also seem to have more time to service our needs, so delivery may happen a day or so faster than in the last few years. Speedee still does not offer liftgate service in St Paul or Minneapolis.
Over the years, the way our customers have ordered Coswmo has evolved. What used to be 100% phone orders has changed to predominately text and email communications. I will try to send your invoices by email or text when you order.
Finally, I will be at the Marbleseed Conference in February and the Minneapolis Home and Garden Show around the same time. Stop by for a visit as we will be giving out samples for you to take home!
