June 01, 2024
When I decided to build my hügelkultur beds I knew it was going to take large amounts of branches and debris for the first layer. I had purchased my electric chainsaw to prune my trees, so I had this covered, even though I did not anticipate the amount of work involved. I also knew it would still take 3 yards3 (2.25 m3) of compost and an additional 1 yard3 (0.75 m3) of potting soil to fill the raised beds. Looking at the price of compost and potting soil in my local hardware store told me it would be cost prohibitive to buy the small bags offered (1 or 2 feet3, .03m³ or .06m³). However, I did find several locations which provide bulk amounts of both types of fills. The problem was I did not own a trailer or even a pickup to transport the fill to my yard. That was when Melissa reminded me our friend had a trailer that he used to transport his motorcycle. I called him and he was more than willing to let me use the trailer for as long as I needed. Several (long) days later the beds were full, and the trailer was washed and returned. My friend did not expect payment, but I felt I could provide some sort of renumeration. Since his gift enabled me to finish my containers, I thought the best way to respond was to provide them with some of the “first fruits” from my garden.
When I looked online, I found First Fruits is defined as a religious offering of the first agricultural produce of the harvest. In classical Greek, Roman, and Hebrew religions, the first fruits were given to priests as an offering to deity. In Classical Athens the First Fruits offering (aparche) was a major source of funds for the temples of the mystery (Eleusinian) goddesses, Demeter and Kore. Much of the agricultural offering was sold by the temple with the proceeds being used to pay for the daily upkeep of the temple complex. In Rome the first fruits of the field were offered to Priapus, a minor fertility god from Greek mythology who became a popular figure in Roman erotic art and literature due to his permanent erection (priapism). In ancient Judaism, first fruits (bikkurim) were a sacrificial offering, and the first grown fruits in each agricultural season were brought to the Temple and laid by the altar as commanded by the Torah (Exodus 23:19 and Deuteronomy 26:1–11). The Hebrew Torah became the Christian Old Testament and the practice continued. The Teachings of the Twelve Apostles (Didache) instructed first fruits be given of “money, clothes, and all of your possessions” (13:7). Having the First Fruits blessed at the church has been celebrated through the feast of Lammas (Loaf Mass Day) in Western Christianity and the Feast of the Transfiguration in Eastern Orthodox Christianity (August 6). It is still practiced by other cultures (by other names) today.
While I have begun collecting the first fruits from my raised beds, the only thing ready is radishes. While my friends may enjoy some (8) radishes, this did not seem like a proper dedication. I have other fruits that should provide a proper gift that should be ready (?) shortly (cauliflower, beans, peas, carrots, and brussels sprouts). I have also received the first fruits from my container crops as the cilantro and jalapenos are producing, but my friends have a large garden that will produce tomatoes and jalapenos. Instead, I made my first Pico of the season. I am looking forward to more.
THOUGHTS: Beginning in 1966 a unique “First Fruits” celebration brought the Ancient African harvest festivals to the US with Kwanzaa, celebrated from December 26 to January 1 and culminating in a communal feast called Karamu on the sixth day. This is based on traditions from various parts of West, Eastern, and Southeast Africa. A 2019 poll in the US by the National Retail Federation found 2.6% of people who planned to celebrate a winter holiday would choose Kwanzaa. First fruits celebrations are a reminder to be thankful for the earth’s bounty and for our willingness to share that bounty with others. Whatever you call it, it is a good reminder. Act for all. Change is coming and it starts with you.
A travelers odyssey 