We got a new apple tree yesterday the final link in our plan to wrap the farmhouse in young green trees. The space where the apple tree is was the last big space in the green circle.

If nothing else, the farm has taught me multi-tasking. My plan for new trees as the official garden waterer for Bedlam Farm is simple and intense, and it has been successful.

I soak the tree with water for two months. The tree is buried with fresh soil, some peat moss, and mulch in a sort of moat around the base to hold water.

Soaking means filling up the little pond hole above ground with the tree in the middle and soaking the basin, letting it shrink, then soaking it again.

I do this four or five times to make sure the water sinks down before I fill the small basin again. I also have a bluebird family living in the Blue Bird House right near the tree.

So I’ve decided to combine my afternoon meditation with the tree soaking. And sit comfortably at the same time. I might have some scotch every one in a while.

While the Blue Bird buzzes back and for to the lilac tree, I hold the hose nozzle in my hand and soak the base and the rootball, waiting for the puddle to soak down. Then I do it again.

I do this for 15 or 20 minutes and will do it every day until the beginning of August.

It’s pretty neat to sit out there, close my eyes, listening to the flapping and squeaking of the bluebird. This tree will be a great addition to the farm, I can feel it.