WINTER GARDENING

Well not really my favourite activity but I must admit I do love raking up the leaves that have fallen on my Orto and building a bonfire to burn them up. The smell takes me right back to my childhood, and of helping m Nonno in his garden. Next is planning what fruit to plant next year as I try to build up my little orchard....

May I suggest some cherry trees? They seem to do very well in our area of Northern Tuscany. And they are lovely trees.

You are right, Antinello, a cherry tree covered with white blossoms is one of nature's most beautiful sights. And the fruit is delicious. I remember that a few years ago, we were renting a home at Boveglio and the neighbours gave us a box of cherries from the communal trees. They were absolutely superb! Much better than commercial varieties.

I agree about cheery trees they are beutiful in blossom, but I already have 4 one of those being the small sharp variety that are great for cooking and schnapps; so I have more cherries than I can shake a stick at when in season, also figs, walnuts and cob nuts. I am trying to introduce some fruit trees to a smaller area on the bottom terrace at the house, I have a pear and apple tree along with blueberries and gooseberries, oh and the ubiquitous Cachi tree. I was thinking of something else but not Olives.

The "Meyer" lemon stands cold climates better than other varieties. So you may be lucky with those and it is always very handy to have a lemon tree in your orchard. Other citrus trees are very much affected by frost; however, check with the local nursery as they are always coming up with new varieties suited to all types of climates. Still, some protection from northerly winds may be preferable.

This can give you some more information and confirms what I said about how hardy a Meyer lemon tree is:www.kathyrmiller.com/meyer_lemon_tree.htm

Thanks Gala, you apppear to have the answers to my prayers. I have a samll lemon tree taht we keep in a pot by the house and move under cover in the winter when a certain Mr J Frost pays a visit; just wonder how hardy they are as no one around here leaves lemon trees out in winter or plants them in the ground. Still may give it  a go if I can find the variety as our terraces are south facing and sheltered.