See that? That’s me, standing in my little urban wheat field just three and a half months after it was planted. Running my hands along the top of the spiny heads of golden wheat as I walked the rows. Living the dream, folks.
The whole process – of turning and prepping the soil, planting, weeding, and now, finally, harvesting – has been an incredible experience. This is perhaps overly simplistic, but I now have a much deeper appreciation for the work that goes into producing the grain we consume.
I also have a new appreciation for, and interest in, the potential for grains in the ornamental garden. You can’t tell me wheat isn’t beautiful! I can easily see it integrated into an edible landscape.
Anyway, this is all to say that we had a successful harvest. Thanks to help from friends from the Lawns to Loaves project and Cedar Cottage Garden, we managed to cut and bundle all 1,500 sq ft of Red Spring wheat in no time flat. Threshing, however, is going to take a little longer.
More on that later this month.
Zoe says
These are fantastic pictures. You’re right: it’s beautiful stuff. I love wild grass scenes anywhere this time of year – the colors are warm and lovely – but this is even more appealing as part of an urban landscape, because it’s edible. Cool project.
Kim C. says
That’s it. You need to move to the prairies with me. We’ve got grain a plenty here!
Andrea Bellamy says
Zoe – thanks! I’m totally taken with grasses, too!
Kim – I bet! The romantic notion of the prairies is what inspired me to do this!
Sam Sotiropoulos says
Great project and post! How did your neighbours feel about your wheat field? I hope that is them in the reaping photo?
Andrea Bellamy says
Hi Sam,
Overall, the response to the project (by immediate neighbours and other Vancouver residents) has been positive. People are intrigued and amused. And yes, those are some wheat-field neighbours in the photo!
Phil says
So cool! I’m experimenting with oats, winter wheat and buckwheat right now to see what is happiest in my soil, but I haven’t had the guts to go as big as you have yet. Look forward to following this project.