Monday, April 22, 2013

Espalier

I was out planting chard this morning when out of the corner of my eye I saw a spray of white against the south wall of the house.  It was the little apricot tree that I espaliered last spring.  It had survived the winter and the rabbit depredations, and overnight it had burst into bloom.

I took a closer look and saw no insects other than a couple of ants that I'm sure were looking for a way to get into the kitchen.  It's been so chilly--in the 20s last night--that the bugs aren't out yet. But the little apricot tree was clearly ready for them, so I got my trusty watercolor brush and pretended I was a bee.  I did a pretty good job pollinating the indoor lemon tree a couple of months ago, so I'm hoping that my attentions with the watercolor brush will be rewarded.

Warm from the sun, raspy in the hand, sweet and spicy on the tongue:  apricots!

6 comments :

  1. That looks very lovely and sweet and I hope the fruit tastes also. What a nice sight to see.

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    1. Keep your fingers crossed, Irene. We may still be in for some frosty nights. Is it spring already in Holland?

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  2. Love the way you take control and become an insect when that is needed.

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    Replies
    1. I'll do anything for an apricot!

      I remember how fabulous the ones you gave me last year were.

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  3. Yes, it's spring here and hedges and shrubbery are turning green and flowers are starting to abound. Now we are waiting for the trees to take on that green haze. It's a bit chilly yet, but we are full of hope for warmer days.

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  4. Yes, the trees are taking it slowly here too.

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