The only good thing about the 100+ degree temperatures arriving is that it means peaches, peppers and tomatoes are coming. This year I got my bird netting out soon enough that I haven't seen any bird-related casualties on the peach tree yet. This is the third season for that peach tree and the peach crop increased from 10-15 peaches the last two years to about 50 this year, and that's after losing a third of the tree (a large branch fell off under the weight of all the peaches, after that I propped up the other two main branches) and thinning the rest by more than half.
I have been making applesauce and canning it and was surprised at how easy it was (though the peeling, coring and slicing are a bit laborious). Basically, peel, core and slice thinly about 12-14 large apples, put those and about 1/3 cup water in a large pot and simmer for about 20 minutes then run through the food processor with some cinnamon, can and process in a boiling water canner for about 15 minutes. Next step is to do all the simmering in the solar oven.
I ordered a postal scale from ebay so I can start weighing all the food and keeping track. It was 96 cents, plus about $17 in shipping. :) I am excited to have an objective way to monitor my year to year progress.
1 comment:
Ooh I love peaches! It's been hot here too but we only have salad greens so far (in the Northwest). I loved the chicken post below too that you did. Very exotic looking some of them! We have 4 hens but next year I think I will get 2 chicks because 2 of them are getting up there in age. :)
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