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We can talk about the weather with anyone in nearly anyplace around the world (providing they speak your language…if not, sign language will work). Nearly every region has a line that goes something like this: “If you don’t like the weather in (any location) just wait a while and it’ll change.” West Texas is one of the most changeable. I’ve seen a dust storm, converted to falling mud by rain, beaten into mush by pounding hail and covered by a snow blizzard…all in one day!
The last few days have been notable (understatement). Monday, the high temperature was a sizzling 93F (34C) followed by a nocturnal freeze 27F (-3C). Today we have tree-toppling high winds. To top it all off, we are in a serious drought. Certainly hasn’t been boring!
For the freeze, emergency measures were called for. Fourteen tender new tomato plants were gently set out just days ago. I slid a brown paper sack over each one and slopped dirt on the edges to anchor them in place in hopes of warding-off the frost. Thankfully, it worked.
After frying and freezing, today things were flying. Grit and grime from New Mexico has tinted the parched wind a light brown and toppled the mesquite next door on to our power lines. It was shocking! Currently, the damage is limited to a severely smashed chain link fence. Number 1 took off from work and helped me chainsaw it free (I think he enjoyed the break). Power is out all over our town and the countryside is filled with brush fires. Other than that everything is OK.
Paper sacks in place ready for frost
The morning after...safe and unfrozen
Danger! Mesquite over power lines!
Another electrifying view
July 15, 2009 at 4:13 pm |
Do paper sacks really keep the frost off tomatoes, eggplants, peppers?? What a novel idea! How low has it gotten for you (temperature wise that is) that the sacks have protected them? Thanks!
July 15, 2009 at 5:03 pm |
The sacks seemed to work this time, but the frost was lighter than anticipated. It was the first time I tried it. I took the idea from “HotKaps” that are also made of paper. I don’t set out tomato plants until the last average frost date…but late frosts can sneak up on us.