Winters used to last longer in deep South Texas and it
usually wasn’t until mid-March that the duraznillo (doo-raz-nee-oh) began blooming.
That was the time to mark the locations of each plant and start watching
for the little peaches appearance. It
was always—and continues to be—a contest between potential consumers. The birds always win out but other critters
like deer and humans claim a few peaches if they are quick and observant. But this year the duraznillo blossoms have
arrived far too early. Scientists
worldwide have accurately predicted a chaotic climate where weather extremes
strafe the planet, i.e. one area is bombarded by a massive winter storm while
another endures extreme drought. The Northeast
is about to suffer a blizzard while parts of the Southwest go without rain. I had a relative tell me recently that
someone she knows does not “believe” our chaotic climate is being influenced by
human behavior. I responded that science
is not based on what people believe but instead on what the data tells us. Supportive data or lack of supportive data is
the plank on which scientists rest their determinative fulcrum. And in this case the data is overwhelming:
Our chaotic climate is indeed a product of human deeds.
So here we are in early February and the duraznillo is
flowering. Yes, I was surprised to see
the blooms but other plants are blossoming as well. Way too early and definitely out of kilter, I
am now wondering if this means that a torturous summer lies ahead. Of course, my in denial relative will continue with her quintessential head in the
sand (as will others) but the data is clear and continues to mount.
I will be watching the plants and in a few weeks the little
peaches will be ripe and the birds will gather in hordes and the deer will
arrive as well and the old Woods Roamer will be there too. We’ll eat the peaches ripe and, if the birds
give me a chance, I’ll make some tasty jam.
I’ll keep you informed.
Family: Rosaceae
Scientific Name: Prunas
texana
Folk Name: Duraznillo (little peach); Brushland Peach
