I get asked a lot about what fruit we harvest each year. Below, I will give you a simplified version of what fruits and how we store them.
This season of life is one of my absolute favorites because all of the hard work that goes into doing this comes full circle. We see it through from being picked, washed, jammed or dehydrated, to the entire family enjoying it during the winter season. It is such a delight to share in the goodness of what God has blessed us with. When I see the smiles across the faces of my loved ones, it certainly makes my job all the more enjoyable.
From one peach tree we picked about 10 gallons. We picked almost 50 gal of pears and apples this year all from our little orchard. God was good to us this year. Our provision hasn’t always been so bountiful and that is why we are so grateful for what we do have this year.
Blackberries
Black Raspberries
Blueberries
Cantaloupes
Cherries
Gooseberries
Grapes
Mangos
Melons
Peaches
Raspberries
Strawberries
Watermelon
Jammed or Sauce:
Apricots
Blackberries
Black Raspberries
Blueberries
Cherries
Grapes
Peaches
Pears
Plums
Raspberries
Strawberries
Tomatoes (I can these)
As the children have grown, they tell me harvesting is some of their favorite memories on our homestead… and it doesn’t hurt that they know we all get to enjoy all of these goodies all winter long. This is really where the fun begins because all of that hard work is now paying off.
I hope you find this encouraging and it inspires you to pick just one fruit this year that you can jam or freeze. Your local orchard should have many different varieties to choose from if you don’t have anything established. However you do it, it is always more rewarding doing it together as a family and I believe you will find this to be true for you as well. Happy harvesting friends! 🙂
Natalie