Spring Planting Begins: Fruit Trees
Every growing year has started out the same for us here on the homestead – we plant perennials. Much of these have been fruit and nut trees and bushes while others have served other functions, like bamboo around the pond or nitrogen-fixing bushes on the front side of swales. 
Every year we plant a little more, taking stock of what survived last year and what seems to do well in our climate. Last year we were all excited about the jujube and how well it stood up to the summer heat. Figs, pears, and peaches are also holding up and so we stick with some of what we know has worked in the past. 
But it’s hard to not get excited about southern apple varieties, nectarines, and apricots; so those find their way into the mix as well.
Our first order arrived from Legg Creek Farm recently. It showed up unexpectedly early so the boys were eager to help with the unforeseen hole-digging that day. I am often shocked at how much physical labor a six and eight year old can accomplish when they are excited about it. And they were most definitely excited about it.
Many of these new trees are being planted before the food forest, expanding it towards the pallet garden, chicken coop, and chicken field.
Each of the children got to pick out a couple of trees this year and when I wandered out with Ruthie to see how things were going, the excitement was palpable. They told me about the varieties they chose and which aspects they were helping out with. The sun was getting low, supper was cooking, and I had sourdough bread rising so I only caught a few minutes of the action.
From what I could tell, I think everyone was happy to get their hands (and faces) dirty as planting begins in earnest.
Oh, and I hear another order from Burnt Ridge Nursery is on its way… something about strawberries and crab apples has got the crew all riled up.
I’m planting fruit trees right now too! I just planted a bunch of paw paws, figs, and kiwis, a couple of peaches, and a citrus called a Yuzu that is native to northern China and will (allegedly) grow gorgeously outside here in the foothills of the Cascades. Plus I’m obsessed with the idea of old fashioned, four season hedgerows, so I’m working on those too.
We need to chat, my friend.
Paw Paws… and are those Hardy Kiwis? Yes, we need to talk. Our parallel lives are starting to creep me out – 4 children, red hair, a love for raw cream. The only thing I’m missing is those cream puffs you tortured me with the other day. 😉
Shannon, your posts are among the few that I truly read. Even though this is a time when I am (trying to) unsubscribe so that my Inbox will not fill up, I am always happy to see posts from you.
In this one, I so love the photos, too – especially the ones of Stewart interacting with the children. Adorable. And, terms such as “food forest” are delightfully mysterious.
Is there any possibility that you might draw us a map of the property, so that we can see where things are?
Thank you for sharing your lives with us.
Ouida Lampert
Ouida – You are very kind. I will look into drawing a picture of the property. Stewart would be better at than I, but I think it’s a great idea!
I, too, devour your posts and look forward to them so much. I know it is a sort of vicarious living but it feels as though every triumph your family shares somehow symbolizes hope for the planet’s future. I am sure your readers all wish you every success!
Cynthia – Aww that’s very kind. I appreciate y’all more than words can say.
This is my favorite too! I am always attempting to get “unsubscribed” but your family has become very special to me.