A New Beginning: Planting Fruit Trees with Nature’s Wisdom

Back in December, I wrote about the idea of cultivating fruit trees for community sharing (you can find that post here).

Today, I took the first real step: I planted three young fruit trees in our garden.

After spending some time choosing the right ones, I decided on a kiwi tree, a Japanese orange tree (mikan), and a persimmon tree. Each of them feels like a good fit not only for our climate but also for the spirit of what I hope to create β€” something that can be shared, enjoyed, and cared for together.

In planting them, I wanted to do more than just put trees in the ground. I chose to follow the principles of Masanobu Fukuoka, the pioneer of natural farming. Instead of clearing the land, removing the weeds, or adding artificial fertilizers, I left everything as it was. I planted directly into the living soil, trusting the natural ecosystem to support the young trees as they grow.

Will this work? I genuinely don’t know.

And maybe that’s exactly the point.

The only way to find out is to walk alongside them β€” to observe, to learn, and to adapt as needed. These trees are not just about fruit; they’re a reminder that life flourishes when we step back a little and allow nature to do what it knows best.

Today, a small, hopeful beginning has been made.

I’m looking forward to seeing how this journey unfolds β€” season after season, year after year.

Leave a comment

This blog is for thoughtful adults who are starting again β€” in learning, creativity, or life β€” and want to grow steadily without noise or pressure.

Here you’ll find daily reflections and practical guides shaped by lived experience. The focus is on learning through doing: building consistency, adapting to change, and finding clarity in everyday practice.

The stories and guides here come from real processes β€” creative experiments, hands-on projects, life in rural Japan, working with nature, and learning new skills step by step. Nothing is rushed. Nothing is polished for performance. The aim is steady progress, honest reflection, and practical insight you can actually use.

If you’re curious about life in Japan, learning new skills at your own pace, or finding a calmer, more intentional way forward, you’re in the right place.

Receive Daily Short Stories from Karl

You can unsubscribe anytime with a few button clicks.

Continue reading