The only thing not to like is the lack of rain. After the previous two low-rainfall years our wells are barely producing and the trees are stressed. So we wait impatiently, eagerly checking long range forecasts for some sign of relief. So far every projected storm has been a mirage, but we keep hoping. In the meantime there is nothing to do but enjoy the beauty of fall. Here are some recent orchard views:
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| Apricot trees are a blaze of yellow |
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| Peach trees combine red and yellow |
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| Persimmons leaves go all out to capture "best of show" |
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| We are picking Fuyu persimmons weekly for restaurant and on-farm sales |
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| Our Meyer lemons are showing their appreciation for the compost, kelp and minerals they received this year with great size, color and flavor |
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| Our winter wheat plot is off to a great start and we look forward to many great loaves of bread next summer |
A great book for the home orchard enthusiast
For anyone wanting to grow backyard or small scale fruit and nut trees, the book The Home Orchard, Growing Your Own Deciduous Fruit and Nut Trees is an invaluable resource. Published by University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources, this book offers a wealth of information from choosing the best varieties for your climate, to soils preparation and planting, to growth cycles and tree care, through cultural practices such as irrigation, fertilizing, pruning, thinning, harvesting and pest control. I recommend it highly, available here:
