Sir:
Thank you for your continuing work.
1. How would you suggest we research micro-climates in areas of interest in the American Redoubt?
2. For those of us in the 50-60 age group, single, and raising grandchildren is there a place for us? I don’t believe I have the physical strength/endurance and certainly not knowledge to forge out a place in the “wilderness” at this age. How about the possibility of teaming up with a family who needs a “grandma” and extra pair of hands to help with domestic/garden duties?
Yes, I do have skills I could make a living most likely as long as there is high speed internet access. But would prefer not to rely on its existence if I could.
May I suggest that you add a FAQ on the American Redoubt Page?
The Lord’s Blessings on you and your family. – Maggie B.
JWR Replies: The old saying is: “Climate is what you expect, and weather is what you get.”
To start your research, see:
The widely-cited Climate zones map (from the publishers of Sunset magazine.)
Microclimates (“In the real world, we garden in micro-climates, not hardiness zones.”)
Western Regional Climate Center (and drill down to the wealth of information here: Historical Climate Information)
Gardening in the Inland Northwest
Be sure to also look at soil maps
Then, moving down to the state and local level, see:
Introduction to short-season gardening in Idaho
Cold Climate Gardening – how we do it here in Wyoming
Gardening in Eastern Washington
After you do your basic research at the state level, it is best to check with the NRCS extension office in each of the counties that you are considering, for their insights on microclimates.