I’ve been somewhat lax in getting this site updated again since the end of harvest but just wanted to let everyone know that although harvest is over, plans are developing for the orchard in the coming year. Our fruit season closed the middle of November with the pickup of the last orders of Black Twig Winesap. It was a good harvest and with the help of our customers at market we were able to have a good opportunity to provide a wholesome product to many consumers.
Although we are presently in the throes of winter, we are not without things to do. Pruning is the task at hand. Weather permitting we take the equipment to the orchard and give each tree a good “cut.” When we prune trees we use air powered tools and cut out dead, diseased branches and past growth that is not necessary for the trees’ development. Pruning fruit trees is necessary for several reasons. Pruning opens the trees to better receive sunlight and air flow. Seasonal applications of pesticides and fungicides are more able to penetrate the limbs and reach the developing fruit if trees are properly pruned. There is also better fruit development and a more even fruit distribution on the tree with proper pruning. The limbs removed or “prunings” are left on the ground and usually chopped with a flail mower as Spring approaches. This incorporates the organic matter back into the orchard’s soil. It has been a challenge to get moving down the rows this year. Mother Nature has been putting a “nix” on most of our attempts this winter. However, with longer daylight hours and warmer temperatures in the future forecast we will be able to get busy again real soon.