Farming organically in Rumsey for more than 30 years has taught John and Gretchen Ceteras how to best play the hand nature deals them. At Blue Heron Farm, located on an elevated bank along Cache Creek at the mouth of Rumsey Canyon, they grow some of the finest oranges available anywhere. Their Washington Navel oranges are juicy, sweet and a beautiful deep orange color. Given the extreme chill they endured just over a month ago, we are especially thankful to have them this year.

The danger zone for oranges starts at temperatures of 25 degrees. On December 7^th, the coldest in a series of hard frost evenings, the temperature settled to 24 for a few hours and dropped to a crop-threatening 21 for an hour just before sunrise. During cold stress, orange trees pull moisture from the fruit saving its trunk, which, in turn, can ruin the fruit leaving it dry and bitter. John was determined to do all he could to save the crop — in his words, “hydrate.”

Anticipating a sustained frost period that he has come to expect in December, John meticulously irrigated the grove — using his water-conserving micro-sprinklers — to accomplish two things. First, warm the grove’s microclimate with 50 degree well water. Second, prevent fruit desiccation by ensuring the 15-30 year old trees had a well-watered root system. Since oranges are shallow rooted, despite their taproot, John believes it is the latter strategy that made the difference. Particularly since on that cold December evening, the valley’s power went out due to a downed limb — quite literally a cold snap! — leaving John’s pump idle at the crucial hour.

John and Gretchen started raising almonds at first, and then oranges and walnuts, as well as tomatoes, figs, and hand-decorated gourds. Their operation has been certified organic since 1981. Over the years, they’ve learned how to work with nature to yield wonderful produce.  If you come across one that isn’t quite as sweet, now you’ll know what might have caused it and perhaps appreciate these wonderful oranges even more. Enjoy Blue Heron’s oranges through early February!

- Thomas Nelson

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