What Doesn’t Kill You Makes You Stronger
The dry spell has negatively impacted many plants, including tree crops. However, some plants seem to have been energized by the harsh conditions. Our tamarind trees typically have a small crop at the beginning of the year. A second crop is produced in the year’s second half. Initially, the trees experienced flower drop in winter frost and dry summer. These occurrences led to limited yields in the years with extremes in temperature or drought. However, as the plants have gotten older, they have slowly shifted the month of blooming. Sometimes, they put through another set of flowers to experiment if they will get better results. Instead, they will probably produce a smaller crop in the year’s second half.
Adapting to Match the Most Favourable Conditions
The tree in the harshest, most unprotected position produces the largest yields. Probably to have many seeds to keep its lineage going should it succumb to the extreme conditions someday. They stored their resources throughout summer until we experienced at least three downpours that soaked into the ground. The changes in fruiting timing happened gradually over the years by a few days. Eventually, they seemed to have settled for the times favouring the lowest flower drop. They were leaving the harshest months for fruit ripening and drying. It is beautiful to see how plants are gradually adapting to the changes in climate. Not only to keep up with challenges but also to thrive.
Lesson Learned
I am reminded that resilience is not about denying challenges but accepting them for what they are. With acceptance, we can find solutions to make the best of them. All this happened as we reduced the care they received and diverted resources to the more vulnerable potted plants. We have much to learn and be encouraged by observing and working with nature. Think of the future, not just today. The conditions that may break others may give you and your kin a better chance. We shall not count our chicks before the eggs hatch. Still, a good start, if sustained, can lead to a good finish.
“A society grows great when old men plant trees in whose shade they know they shall never sit.”
“A man doesn’t plant a tree for himself. He plants it for posterity”. Alexander Smith
#LoveHomeGrown