Long time no write

 Another spring is approaching and we did have some successes with our plans for last year. 

While the dogs continue to run rampant over my improved soil I did manage to get a small square fenced in OUTSIDE that area.  So instead of my well fenced improved area I have a 15 by 15 ft square of unimproved soil.  The three trees I ordered were planted inside that small area and I have the room around them.  Nope it is not the plan I have envisioned but it it what I got.  Two of the apple trees didn't survive our spring/summer weather but one was doing well before winter... 

One thing that did work out MUCH better then I expected was the Greenstalk.  We have two set up in the tree yard.  They are on each side of the gate so easy to harvest.  They will be even easier when we get the spinning bases installed. Honestly I love these which is why I have bought 2 more that we will set up in the spring.  This one had strawberries, tomatoes, nasturtiums, peppers, and baby bok choy all in a 2 ft square space.  Yep love um but make sure that is good quality potting soil you fill them with. 

The other stalk had beans, lettuce, and tomatoes in it.  The concrete pad is actually a large stepping stone and was used to ensure the Greenstalks had a level base so the watering system inside would work properly.  

The two new ones will be set along the fence and yes will have the spinner bases also.  One is a pale bright green, the other is a deep red violet. I can hardly wait for spring to get them in place. 

While I lost at least of 2 of my 3 trees I am not too badly upset.  I am hoping the other tree will survive our winter and start growing with vigor in spring.  If it does I will get another tree to provide pollination for it and see what happens. 

There is a lot of open space inside the small fence but most of the soil is totally compacted and hard to dig or even for weeds to grow in.  I have two plans for the area.   One is to toss out root crops and see if any takes and can survive that area to help break up the soil a big.   I am also planning on using that open space for Squash.   I have a vining type summer squash landrace that needs room to sprawl.  IF It is happy to grow in that dirt it could be a nice soil cover and later a chop and drop plant when winter gets here.   I may also try a couple of hills of bush winter squash giving each about a 3 sq foot sq space to sprawl and grow happily but I have a feeling I will need to fertilize and give them a bit of care to get them going and staying happy

The Greenstalks will have beans, lettuce, bok choy, strawberries, and some mini tomatoes,  PLUS whatever we need room for ....  

Potatoes in the front yard, corn near the squash even if that is icky dirt...  Tomatoes, greens, and root crops in the metal beds.