Dr. Bashioum’s Traveling Bees
March 13th, 2015
While it might not be warm enough for native bees to go to work in Minnesota yet, my traveling bumblebees have arrived from Biobest. I’ve installed the hive in my Wayzata garage greenhouse for my non-cold hardy trees that are protected from freezing temps in the garden. The bees don’t bother people, but provide a way for the potted fruit trees to get pollinated before the local bees are active. This is my second time using the bees, it’s a bit easier than doing it myself with a little brush! Gardening in Minnesota can be challenging, but the rewards are many.
Early blossoms await ‪#‎pollination‬. Peaches, plums, apricots and nectarines..
Early Bud Break in Napa
March 4th, 2015
An unseasonably warm Spring has marked the vines with early bud break at Kitchak Cellars in the Napa Valley. On a recent visit with Peter Kitchak during a vineyard walk, we noticed the vines coming to life after being dormant this winter. Our hope is that the valley stays frost-free now so the tender blossoms are not bothered. A late frost can seriously affect the yield. Grapes are just another agricultural crop, with the all the same perils of farming. I never cease to be amazed every time I open a bottle of nice wine!
Photo: Kitchak Cellars Cabernet Block, Napa CA
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