April was previously touted as the target month for planting some produce that met certain criteria in light of the irrigation water challenges and the higher-than-normal temperatures.

Gardeners are keenly aware of the limitations and changes in the conditions presented by our environment and are trying to adapt in order to cultivate some favored produce. Knowledge of produce growth requirements and cycles, predicted weather and faith in one’s skills and ability and in Mother Nature coming through for us all is necessary.

Available irrigation water has spurred gardeners to plant early and choose produce that is frost-hardy and can reach maturity rather quickly. El Vecino has planted his early pea crop and is planning to plant his onion sets. Both are relatively frost-hardy and the sets will take some time to germinate so they reach a period of warmer temperatures.

El Vecino has taken a leap of faith in planting his landrace chile at the earliest ever, April 10. Chile takes 22-26 days to germinate and sprout, which takes it into May 10. This early planting resulted from the perceived need to get the planted seed irrigated four times over a 28 day period and to do so while irrigation water is available and temperatures are unseasonably high. This is an adaptation to conditions in the environment in an attempt to successfully cultivate.

Cabbage and Brussels sprouts are two other produce items that can be planted or transplanted as they are frost-hardy. The many other leafy produce items must be put on hold until their mid-May time period. One last produce item to plant at the end of April is potatoes. It is early mid-May before they sprout. This planting gives gardeners plenty to start with and the ability to use available water to give their gardens a good start.

Early planting takes a bit of brevity and faith that conditions can improve to reach some measure of success. Weather is predicted to enter an El Niño year, which portents elevated moisture levels.

April moisture, so far, is 1.20 inches, fully 10% of the long term yearly average in El Rito. The showers have bolstered creek and river flow a bit and that is a welcome surge. Snow pack is at an all-time low, so showers will be looked upon to help raise creek flow. Growers look for Mother Nature’s benevolence.

Many are questioning whether to cultivate. The decision to do so is based on one’s knowledge of produce, long-term weather predictions and a little faith in what we do. Andenle (come on).

April To Dos

1. Plant the early peas and onion sets.

2. Plant the chile crop.

3. Transplant cabbage and Brussels sprouts.

4. Irrigate the plantings.

5. Prep furrows for leafy plantings in May.

6. Monitor long-term forecasts.

7. Hoe and till the garlic crop.

8. Administer weekly irrigation to orchard trees.

9. Enjoy the wonderful fragrance of the bountiful lilac blossoms.