Nomad blackboard: Winter orchad

This particular blackboard showcases various plant species that thrive in a winter orchard and are planned to be harvested mostly during spring time. Although winter temperatures in Blanes can drop to around 0 degrees Celsius, this does not limit the variety of plants that can be cultivated during this season. This diversity becomes especially evident when examining the plants on display in Marimurtra’s orchard.

Plants in winter gardens typically grow more slowly than those planted in summer due to suboptimal conditions, such as reduced sunlight. However, during this cold season, certain plants can continue to grow, as they are well-adapted to such conditions. Depending on the species planted in winter, some can already be harvested in spring, while others may take until summer.

While most plants in winter orchards can survive frost, they fare better in milder temperatures. This makes Blanes an ideal location for a winter garden; Its proximity to the sea creates a maritime climate with moderate seasonal temperature fluctuations, in contrast to a continental temperate climate where such differences are more pronounced. Furthermore, the Marimurtra Botanical Garden enjoys slightly higher temperatures than the town of Blanes or other regions of Catalonia, thanks to its unique geography: on one hand, a terrestrial barrier of Mediterranean forest shields it from cold northern winds, while on the other hand, the cliffs and the Mediterranean Sea serve as maritime buffers, maintaining a relatively stable and favorable climate.

Additionally, here are some key insights into some of the species highlighted on the blackboard:

• The Radish (Raphanus sativus var. sativus) is known for its dark-pink, elongated or round edible roots. These roots make it an excellent choice for small vegetable gardens, as radishes require minimal space to grow. Moreover, they are remarkably fast-growing, often ready for harvest just weeks after sowing. When planted in late summer, radishes can be harvested continuously from winter through spring.
• The Celery (Apium graveolens) has a longer growing cycle compared to radishes. It features long, pale green stems and bushy leaves. Interestingly, celery requires an extended cold period to flower and produce seeds. Some scientific research has identified two specific genes in celery that enhance its resistance to cold stress, which likely contributes to its ability to grow in winter conditions. Additionally, celery has been shown to absorb more toxins than many other plants, making it useful as a bioindicator of pollution. When sown in March-April and transplanted in June-July, celery can be harvested from August to December.
• The Swiss chard (Beta vulgaris var. cicla) is a leafy vegetable notable for its vibrant stalks, which range in color from red to purple and even yellow, depending on the variety. It is both visually appealing and an easy-to-grow plant, renowned for its frost resistance and general hardiness against pests. Swiss chard is unique in that it allows for prolonged harvesting over several months if picked correctly. When sown in mid-summer and overwintered outdoors, it can be harvested in the early spring of the following year.

To sum up, this blackboard highlights the diversity and resilience of winter garden plants, emphasizing how climate and geographic conditions can contribute to their successful growth. Each species represents a fascinating example of nature’s adaptability, offering both practical and ecological benefits. Through this project, we aim to inspire a deeper appreciation for the potential of winter gardens and encourage sustainable gardening practices year-round.