An early summer’s day today. Seven degrees higher than normal. This follows a relatively warm period albeit a very wet period. The ground is sodden and where there are flat areas we have standing water. Far cry from the height of last summer.
Everything is growing. The sounds of line trimming and grass cutting all day long. Fruit trees are in blossom and it will be interesting to see how well they respond to Aknieska’s pruning. We have faith here. The first real pruning for some years. Two thirds of the lavender plants bought in the autumn have been planted. We were concerned that the remainder would be toast, but no, these may look sad but strong growth is coming from the base for most of them. Have begun planting these remaining plants so we should have a fantastic display come summer.
The Echinacea sown last year seem to have survived the winter as there is evidence of growth. Very pleased about that. Not so for the Aconitum and rudbeckia bought last year. Our overwintering regime was inadequate for them. Yet the geraniums have survived. Have replacements on order from NL.
The Olive trees too have begun to show growth other than suckers from the base. It will be interesting to see which and to what degree they flower this year. That should help planning for harvest time. Still want to pollard the next trance of trees, about 80, but waiting on a timeline from Giovanni.
The grapevines are showing signs of life and soon we’ll need to be spraying – hopefully be able to source organic treatments.
Hope to get flower seeds sown this week. Have been waiting on a heating wire to provide some bottom heat at night as the temperature does drop off rapidly. Focus is on sweet peas and sunflowers. No doubt will be planting these out wherever possible.
Pleased with the results of cardboard and mulching where we did this last year. No real sign of the persistent perennial weeds, and where weeds have rooted in the mulch, they are easily removed. The next section is now covered with cardboard and a thin layer of material. Have also managed to source some straw locally – 5 bales and a roll. Helps to have contacts and our thanks to Stefano.
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