The Almond Blossom Appreciation Society

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Almond tree

Returning from emptying the ash pan from our fireplace into the compost bin, I heard this almond tree buzzing energetically. It is a hotspot for foragers today. Mostly honey bees, but a queen bumblebee was on the scene too.

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I planted this tree when we moved here so it must be about six years old now. It grows almonds, but I grow it for the blossom rather than the nuts. I planted an almond tree at our previous apiary too, which was also welcomed by the bees in early spring.

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P.s. The Almond Blossom Appreciation Society is a great book by Chris Stewart. I hope he doesn’t mind my borrowing his title.

Moulded candles

Molten wax in moulds

Chopsticks keep the wicks central

Cooling

Candles removed from moulds

and wicks trimmed

We added drops of essential oils to make scented candles - one cedar, one lavender.

The candles were quick to pour so this method is faster than making dipped candles, but it still begins with the long process of melting the wax, which warms the kitchen and provides a gentle aroma of honey.