February, 2010. Mid-Winter News

On reflecting on the past season events, I recall three visits to the orchard that were documented by well written and informative blogs.

The first was a visit in September for a fun day picking apples:
http://houndsinthekitchen.com/2009/09/28/picking-apples-at-windy-hill-farm/

The second was an evaluation of the Hard Cider we craft at Windy Hill Apple Farm:
http://sensoryscience.blogspot.com/2009/10/cider-evaluation-windy-hill-apple-farm.html

The third is a blog on a visit in search of hard cider in Ohio.   You be the judge:
http://ciderworks.blogspot.com/2008/10/best-freaking-ohio-cider-ever.html

November, 2009. Season 2009 Completed

First of all, a hearty thank you to all the customers who visited the orchard and appreciated the crop even though it was somewhat sparse.  All the apples have been sold mostly directly off the trees.  We also sold all the vinegar, cider syrup and most of the hard cider made in 2008 for the year 2009.   While we still have a few cases of hard cider left, we expect it to be all sold by Thanksgiving.  It is a good idea to call us first at 740-587-3632 before visiting.

We have learned a lot this year.  First, we need to always bring in hives of bees to guarantee adequate pollination.  Second, we need to apply a full amount of calcium as a nutrient even when the crop is light. And finally, we will add several new strategies to the control of insects plus add another insect to the list of those we control through mating disruption.  While the damage by the tufted apple bud moth is superficial, the feeding by the  insect opens the skin of the apple providing a place for fungal rot to occur in time.  So it goes with my self-funded research project!

With the hope that 2010 will be better, we bid you stay tuned and hope to see you next season.