Winter is "ripe in the Land of Oceana." December 21 was the winter solstice, when the earth is farthest away from the sun and it's the shortest sunlight day of the year. For many, winter began Thanksgiving evening with measurable snowfall and continued until last week. Corn harvest ended for those with standing corn. More than one farmer has corn yet to be run. The "January thaw" in December presents a window to complete harvest. Several local growers have indicated they have several hundred acres yet to harvest.
Snow cover is beneficial in many ways. The insulating effect keeps fruit trees dormant, thus prolonging them from "waking up" prematurely. Weather-related tree loss mainly happens in early spring cold snaps. Tree pruning began with the leaves falling and continues into springtime. The disappearance of big snowbanks will allow fruit growers to begin or continue hauling empty apple bins back to the farmyards.
As we prepare for another trip around the sun, from our farm to your farm, no matter the size, Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year.
