Permaculture Gardening at Maytag Mountain Ranch

The Permaculture Garden will be Blooming Soon!

From Ava our Gardener:

    We have entered a perfect time of year to begin the winter pruning of the various fruit trees. In addition to removing branches broken by snow or wandering herds of deer and elk, selective thinning should channel more of each tree’s resources into the fruit. This should allow the plums, peaches, apricots, apples, cherries, and pears to be larger and sweeter when the fruit ripens this summer and fall. Careful thinning also allows more sunlight to reach the leaves and air to circulate. This movement of air and warmth from the sunlight helps prevent mold and fungus on the leaves and branches.

Changes to the grape arbor are coming along nicely. The grapes should be well supported with the minor improvements we are making to the structure. Similar to the fruit trees, I hope to have larger and sweeter grapes than ever before. We are experimenting with companion planting among the grapes. Clover can be found near the grapes; this gives the grapes more nitrogen from clover. Chives are being planted to help with insect control; chives act as a deterrent to insects that are detrimental to grape vines.

Nature’s choice of first stage ground cover and soil builders have worked very well in our garde. Bindweed and wild grasses have been holding moisture and converting subsoil into richer top-soil. The garden is now ready for more broad-leafed plants, such as comfrey, squash, pumpkins, and even fields of strawberries. The tiny burrowing mammals have been diligently tilling the soil, bringing air and water to the microscopic life forms that turn lifeless rock into a feast for plants of all kinds.

The plants with very deep roots, such as hollyhocks, valerian, and dandelions are doing their work, as well. Everything works together to make the garden a place of beauty and harmony. This is the essence of a Permaculture garden. If you have been to the garden before, you will find it somewhat changed this spring. If you have never visited, you will find it to be a place most enjoyable to wander and relax. I in-vite you to visit and ask me questions about the plants and their uses. If I don’t know the answer, I will find out and let you know. Visitors in the garden, including children, are always welcome.