The origin of wine produced from grapes dates back as far as 9,000 years ago in Asia where remnants of fermented rice, honey, grape, and hawthorn berries were discovered on pottery fragments in Central China. A few thousand years later regions throughout Europe began cultivating the winemaking craft while identifying the most favorable grapes that are still...
Often our desire to grow a particular plant or group of plants is far greater than our ability to actually do so in whatever climate we might live in. It seems that no matter where you live, whether it’s in the cold bitter winters of the northeast or the warm,...
Like all living organisms, plants need certain conditions in order to live and develop. Sun and water are important resources that plants need to receive above the surface in order to grow, however, what lies below the surface is just as essential in providing plants with the proper nutrients and components to truly thrive. Soil...
Fruit Tree Chill Hours Chart *this chart is based on the average range, some cultivars do vary Almond: 400-600 Walnut: 800-100 Filbert (Hazelnut): 800-1300 Chestnut: 300-500 Pistachio: 550-800 ————————————– Apple: 700-1000 (Low chill varieties between 200-500) Apricot: 500-800 Peach: 600-1000 (low chill varieties between 300-500) Nectarine: 100-500 Asian Pear: 400-500 European Pear: 600-800 Japanese Plum: 500-900 European Plum: 700-1000 Pluot: 400-800 (Low chill...
Imagine a winter where fresh vegetables and herbs can be harvested even when snow is falling outdoors! This time of year may always require a bit more patience and resilience for those of us who find joy in tending to our gardens and caring for fruit trees outdoors, but we can continue growing indoors all...
The taste of banana, guava, or pineapple can quickly transport any imagination to a warm, sunny location, lounging on a beach, and sipping margaritas. Tropical flavors aren’t usually available to us here in the north, but many subtropical plants grow quite easily here if given some winter protection. Now is the time to expand the possibilities...
Although the stereotypical weather in the Pacific Northwest is grey, rainy skies, there is a surprisingly long period of drought every year. Though the skies can sometimes still be a bit grey in June and September, there is no significant rainfall for most of our growing season. If it wasn’t already known...
Summer is a wonderful time to witness fruit trees flourish. The increase in sunshine provides a major dose of energy for plants to grow, thrive, and produce an abundance of tasty fruits to harvest and enjoy. Pruning isn’t always the first thing that comes to mind when tending to fruit trees in...
With summertime arriving, fruit trees are actively growing, developing fruits, and producing their buds and branches for next year. The fruit tree’s roots are drinking in the beneficial nutrients from the soil and their leaves are absorbing the energy from the sun’s rays needed to keep them growing and thriving....
Growing Oca in the home garden can be an easy and rewarding experience. Originating in the Andes, Oca has been treasured for its multi-colored tubers, abundant production, and as a key source of beneficial nutrients. This tuber continues to be appreciated in the culinary community for its flavor and versatility....
