CANDLEMAS DAY“BETTER KNOWN AS GROUND HOG DAY”

Well February 2nd is here already. Halfway through winter should still have half a mow of hay and half your wood pile. So far wood piles have not been hit too hard but how are those forage supplies? Last year’s weather has left some challenges with both supply and quality. What will 2017 bring as with the ground hog? Things are not that predictable.

Should the ground hog see his or her shadow (sunny day) turns tail and there will be six more weeks of winter and if no shadow (cloudy day) then spring will arrive before the Vernal Equinox. Wait — by my calculations the Vernal Equinox is March 20 2017 that is 46 days after Feb 2 or 4.6 weeks.  Looks like either way there is the possibility of 6 more weeks of winter. Typical weather man hedging their bets.

Throughout Europe Candlemas Day is observed in early February or mid winter in Scotland “If Candlemas Day is bright and clear there’ll be two winters this year” and in Germany.
“ For as the sun shines on Candlemas Day
So far will the snow swirl until May
For as the snow blows on Candlemas Day
So for will the sun shine before May”
All I know is that spring has always arrived — some early some not so early—and the window of opportunity to plant and harvest always seems too tight. Over the past weeks and continuing past Ground Hog Day Carovail’s shops are busy readying for spring.  Equipment repair and replace to ensure that timely delivery and applications will be made, reviewing needs for nutrients and supplies of NPK, crop protection materials and personnel are ongoing. How are those aspects of spring preparations going for your operation?

Having that plan and some alternatives, reviewing goals, soil tests, personnel etc. can help negotiate those uncertain weather conditions. Fine tuned equipment helps navigate through adversities, tune up planters, tillage equipment, and power units will keep things running smooth and safe whenever the window opens.