Willows need to be woven or cut and saved for projects around the farm, or replanted into new fences, structures, and hedgerows.

 

March is an interesting time of year on the farm. The first fruit trees are starting to bud out, and we see some beautiful warm days. However, just as often, we see freezing nights and (hopefully) moisture either in the form of rain or snow.

 

So much about farming is doing the right thing at the right time.

 

On the days we can, we are weeding in fields of perennials, fertilizing garlic, and starting to prep our earliest fields for planting. So much about farming is doing the right thing at the right time. It’s seeing windows in the weather and getting work done that we know will need to get done, while also hoping for more inclement weather. A farmer can never complain about rain, or snow; unless, of course, it’s too much rain and snow.

 

A farmer has to trust in so many things that are out of their control.

 

We also spend a lot of time these days in the propagation greenhouses. Mixing soil, filling trays, planting seeds, watering flats, and hoping that the seeds we’ve planted will germinate. There is a lot of faith that takes place in these months as we slide between winter and spring. A farmer has to trust in so many things that are out of their control. As the seeds start to germinate, we feel a sense of relief, followed by the responsibility to new life. Opening the greenhouse because it’s too hot. Closing it because it’s going to be too cold. Watering enough, but not too much. It’s a dance we farmers do.

It’s also a the time of year we prune our trees. Fruit trees needing to be kept in balance – opening them to light and trimming off dead wood. Willows need to be woven or cut and saved for projects around the farm, or replanted into new fences, structures, and hedgerows. It’s a wonderful time of year as we dance within these windows of time, gifted moments to do the work we want or need to do. As one season closes, another begins. As we weave together the seasons… 

 

~ Jeff, Elise, & the Oshala Farm Crew