posted 3 years ago
I am in zone 3 in New Hampshire. It might be becoming zone 4, really, but I have seen -30F with my own eyes, so I think zone 3. I'm trying to integrate more perennial plants into my farming endeavors by planting shrubs and trees into some existing hugels. I'm curious about how people prepare to plant peach trees, pear trees, apple trees, high-bush cranberry shrubs, elder shrubs, and anything else I can think of to guild a hugel community. I'd appreciate finding out what others are doing.
Last year, we incorporated hazelberts, two current bushes and 4-5 gooseberry bushes. The currents and gooseberries are really thriving despite drought last year and the beginning of this year. The hazelberts suffered some japanese beetle damage, but are growing pretty well. I also planted three hardy kiwi, but I haven't seen any flowers yet and I'm afraid I can't figure out if they are male or female--so I need some advice on that, also.
I obviously have more questions than answers, but perhaps that makes for a good conversation. Thanks in advance for reading and answering.
-Ellen
Ellen
Music, Farming, Community! How do I choose? Oh wait, I choose all three.....