Tamarack Feathers

If you are near a tamarack larch in spring, please do stop and notice the buttons of buds all along the branches. Today the little needles are forcing their way through the brown buttons and in a couple days there will be small clumps of purple feathery fringes that feel like the softest texture nature can provide.

Speaking of trees, I have ordered bundles of two year old tree saplings, bundles of pine and spruce, birch, larch and poplars. I am going to clear small patches and try to replant in the old forest around our house. The ancient tall black poplars keep crashing down in winds and willows are taking over without much for tall growth trees except for some spruce along the edges. The flowering apple and pear left from Gordon Rowan pioneer days are splintering off and breaking down.

I shall plant spruce and experiment with pine and put large fast growing poplars in the middle of the bush and tamaracks around the wet low spots where the fern grow. I'm considering replacing the flowering trees with fruit-bearing types. I will walk our small bush with machete and watering can this summer and I hope I can revive our tree growth to protect us from highway noise and unnecessary eyes. If you are experienced in tree planting or you have any tips on permaculture forest , please help me with your advice.

Most of everything, please take time to admire and touch the new growth of tamarack needles this spring. 🪶