Even though winter officially started only a few days ago, it’s been pretty cold for a bit. May days on the farm can be sunny and mild one day, then cold and grey the next. Since I prefer to be outside as much as possible, I’ve outfitted myself with warm clothes, boots, gloves, and hats. This allows me to work outdoors comfortably during the winter. I can spend a good hour or even two before a really cold day drives me inside to household chores.
To those living on the periphery of the food and farming world, winter’s toll on the land may seem like an opportunity for producers to take a long nap and rest before the ground thaws and it’s time to grow again. The truth? It’s anything but that.
My favourite and most productive outdoor winter farm activities are not major projects. Rather, I prefer smaller practices that produce big results. These include tree management, clearing invasive plants, catching up on chores, maintenance and other administrative tasks, and, of course, planning. Now we go behind the scenes to do the real work and shape what the future looks like.
Tree Management
One of the key activities during winter is managing the trees on the farm. This involves pruning, which is crucial for maintaining the health and productivity of trees. Pruning helps to remove dead or diseased branches, allowing more sunlight and air to reach the healthy parts of the tree. This not only improves the tree’s structure but also promotes better fruit production in the coming seasons. Winter is an ideal time for pruning because the trees are dormant, making it easier to see their structure and make precise cuts.
Clearing Invasive Plants
Winter brings a bit more rain, which softens the ground, allowing easier removal of invasive species. The past few months, I’ve been focused on Sifton bush, which is a nightmare as studies have shown a single mature plant in one square metre is able to produce 4100 million seeds. Before I bring in the big chemical guns, and while I have some time, I’m committed to pulling these out of the ground by hand. Sounds insane, I know, but in about 20 minutes I can pull 100 small to medium plants. This hands-on approach not only helps control the spread of invasive plants but also gives me a chance to inspect the health of the soil and surrounding vegetation.
Chores, Maintenance, and Other Administrative Tasks
Many experts in agriculture agree that winter work is just as important to a farm’s success as the months spent out in the field. Planning a winter to-do list filled with tasks that will help expand and strengthen the farm’s presence is crucial. This includes routine maintenance of equipment, repairing fences, and organising tools and supplies. Winter is also a time to handle administrative tasks such as updating records, reviewing finances, and planning for future investments. Ensuring everything is in order during these slower months sets a solid foundation for the busy growing season ahead.
Planning
Winter offers a chance to reflect on the season past and hone our plans for the next growing season. This is a period of evaluation and strategy, where we analyse what worked well and what didn’t. It’s an opportunity to research new techniques, order seeds, and plan crop rotations. Detailed planning during the winter months can lead to a more efficient and productive growing season. Whether it’s exploring new markets or diversifying crops, the groundwork laid in winter plays a significant role in the farm’s success.
In conclusion, winter on the farm is far from a period of rest. It’s a time for critical maintenance, thoughtful planning, and essential groundwork that ensure the farm’s productivity and sustainability. From managing trees and clearing invasive plants to handling chores and preparing for the next season, winter activities are vital for a successful year in farming.
