The olives are in. Many thanks to our volunteer crew who took a big chunk out of the hardest work. It also created an opportunity shortly thereafter for the three of us, alongside Farmer William, to enjoy planting a few as a family. We we’re motivated: October weather was expected to provide ideal growing conditions, and it sure delivered. We had one good rain prior to planting, our daytime highs remained throttled in the mid-eighties, and the overnight lows were very comfortable.

Oh Deer

Prior to planting, we spent a good portion of our Summer securing the most vulnerable portions of our property from deer. Shortly after planting, we noticed that the deer had taken a liking to our little trees. We moved in quickly to place tree cages around each planting and began using
motion-activated sprinklers (which I LOVE) to deter pests. We’ll monitor munching activity this Winter to ensure that all deer access is blocked prior to planting the grapes.

Only the Strongest Survive

We followed the same process for each tree: (1) dig a healthy clearance and remove rocks, (2) build a mound of good soil with a mineral dust amendment, and (3) water in each tree with a mixture of beneficial bacteria, kelp extract and molasses. Even prior to feeding our deer, we had 1-2 plants show signs of unhappiness fairly early. Farmer William reminded me that “If they don’t make it, they don’t belong.” He’s right. For the trees that got a nibble, I’m sorry. But those that bounce back in the Spring will be ready for the world.