Journal | April 15, 2020

Hardscrabble Journal

April Snow

Waking up to snow is wonderful in the winter. Not so wonderful on April 15. It’s still pretty, but consequences have changed. We now have some green shoots on the Chardonnay and Cabernet Franc. Some of them are covered in ice and snow.

We’ll know if there is damage by this afternoon. Once it warms up any damaged tissue will immediately turn black and desiccate. However, I’m staying cautiously optimistic as the thermometer registered 32°F as the coldest temperature. The newly emerged shoots can handle down to 30°F. That is cutting it close.

It is an odd relief to worry about the familiar.