Patience is bitter, but it's fruit is sweet... and so begins our orchard planting

We have a great location for an orchard, just far enough away from the house and shop to keep the birds and other foragers at bay, but close enough to keep an eye on things. There is much to do to prepare the soil which is mostly clay mixed with large rocks so we're pretty sure it's in need of some good organic supplementation to make it a more fertile soil. Probably the best option is to send out a soil sample for analysis to make sure our investment in fruit trees is not wasted. (And also to make sure they begin thriving rather than just surviving.)

For some reason, I am more excited about picking apples from our own trees, than any other fruit so we're thinking of making a larger initial investment by purchasing a few trees that are old enough to start bearing fruit right away. In researching which apples will do the best in our zone, I think we'll start with Arkansas black and Gala apples. We'll then plan on adding a few other varieties as we come across the right deal at the right time.  Next, on the list of must-haves, are peaches, pears, and cherry trees.  I am not quite as anxious to harvest these right away, so we're willing to buy younger, more affordable stock and wait "patiently" for the sweet reward!

The plan also includes a grape arbor, and various patches of blueberries, red and black raspberries and strawberries.  Not only do I love perennial gardening, but harvesting our own fresh fruit will be an incredible reward that just gets better with each passing year.

I can remember as a young child climbing into my grandparents' pear tree, as well as our neighbors cherry trees, to eat the fresh fruit right off the branch. I want my children and grandchildren to share in those same memories.  There is an incredible feeling of satisfaction to have your pantry well stocked with homegrown, organic fruit to get you through the wintry months.  Warm bread fresh from the oven smothered in homemade jams...well you get the picture!

Speaking of pictures actual photos are coming soon, I promise, as we continue to document this journey into homesteading and our orchards begin to take shape.