We had to remove our ailing Almond tree from
the orchard. It was a sad moment. Our orchard was planned to produce fruit and
nuts. Picking one’s own fruit and nuts is a luxurious experience. Almond
blossoms have a very distinctive fragrance, which I missed in the orchard this spring.
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| The road to Ashton from Bonnievale |
Another casualty this year was a Plum tree.
That left me with two spaces to fill. As usual I could not decide what to do.
The possibilities were endless. From avocado, pecan nut, mango, cherries to so
many trees I would love to have included in our orchard. After considering the pros
and cons of many options, we decided to bring back the almonds. Almond trees
need to cross pollenate and although there are other Almond trees in the area,
we decided to plant two to make it easier for the bees to cross pollinate the
trees in the same garden.
After doing my homework to ensure that I choose the correct two varieties that will cross pollinate, I ordered the two trees from Ashton Nursery. Ashton Nursery specialises in fruit trees and roses. Driving to Ashton provided for an incredible experience, with nature putting on a show of colour over wide swathes of the veld. The display forms a sharp contrast to the large vineyards that are standing bare and stark in the landscape. They are waiting for more serious sunshine before bursting out in their green finery.
I love the vineyards and orchards in the
valley. But the patches of veld bursting into colour is the best in late winter/early
spring. I wonder sometimes if we humans are worthy curators of this world. At
Towerwater, we try to live in harmony with nature. Hoping to leave a better
world for the generation after us. When I look at the scale of pollution that
is killing our world, I fear for what will be left when we are all gone.
We have found that a traditional way of
life is very harmonious with nature and the environment. Practices that were
used in the past never harmed nature. Regrettably, they have been replaced with
quick fixes that fit our current fast-paced lives. The blog is my way of
recording traditions that might otherwise be forgotten.
I sometimes wonder if there are enough
people that care about our disappearing crafts and traditions. The statistics
for the blog tell me that there is still a healthy interest in what we do at
Towerwater. After starting the blog six years ago it currently has more than
122 700 views.
I write for the joy of recording the small
things that makes life worth living. I appreciate the fact that somebody enjoys
reading it as much as I am its writing.
Congratulations on your blog's birthday. It is becoming quite a resource of interesting and helpful information. Keep the posts coming please. Well done.
ReplyDeleteIt is always so well written, you can close your eyes, see the sights, smell the fragrances and taste the delicious meals. All with Natures help and your guidance. Congratulations for regular inspiration!
ReplyDeleteThank you Cheryl, I always enjoy your comments and contributions.
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