I manage to get in a temporary fix while there on this trip. I hope that gets me to spring without too much remedial work. French drains will go in asap. The camera is not really showing the angles and natural run offs. I will try get that into a video soon. They look good - there is a small risk of pooling in two or three small areas but there is nothing I can do about that in the short term as I am out of time to stay.
"Fun" fact regarding the stove: where I live there was this story all over the news two yeaes ago or so. A father built a stove into a leisure cabin. First users were his daughter and four friends for a sleepover. But he didn't install it properly and carbon monoxide accumulated, putting them sound to sleep forever. You might be a good handyman or lucky or both, but maybe get a carbon monoxide detector, it's always a useful thing to have with a fireplace, and they cost like 20 bucks.
my experience with planting olives is this: think about how you will harvest them. Leave at least 5m between trees, don't plant too close to a ditch or the edge of the terrace, plant them in straight lines to make cleaning between them easier with a tractor, think about watering them, maybe put some irrigation in, think about pruning which is a yearly job, make some steps on your terrace or a ramp for a tractor, buy olive trees that are the same type as your neighbour has, that way you know they won't have any problems, offer to help him with the harvest to gain some knowledge, don't plant more than you need (they're quite time/labour intensive harvest, watering/pruning). Good luck!
Yes yes and yes again people are surprisdd bythe work to maintain the trees and ground around them tail wagging dog if u get too many looks stunning tho well done
I manage to get in a temporary fix while there on this trip. I hope that gets me to spring without too much remedial work. French drains will go in asap.
Hi Richard, Grass mate, the farmers will know the best variety, it will grow fast, stabilize the banks and terraces. You can always dig a hole in the grass. If you get some serious rain those banks will be coming in the doors.
The camera is not really showing the angles and natural run offs. I will try get that into a video soon. They look good - there is a small risk of pooling in two or three small areas but there is nothing I can do about that in the short term as I am out of time to stay.
A set of steps up to an upper small terrace for your coffee spot might give the garden some added interest. Nothing fancy maybe a little gravel with a bistro set to get the morning sun and may be shaded in the midday sun by some trees in time.
You could plant herbs on the front of the terraces to hold them in place. Things like sage, oregano, thyme, rosemary. These will spread, smell great and won’t require that you mow grass on the front of the terraces which will be hard work. Herbs will attract pollinators which you may not want near an outdoor kitchen so keep that in mind.
Looks really good! First thing, plants you want are best but even weeds are better than nothing, you can kill them later - get something(s) growing all over the bare earth ASAP! Grass is quick... This will stop erosion, which will happen far more easily and far quickly that you realise, and once it starts it accelerates... Something we had in Zim was an open air Summer kitchen with a top roof and a lower ceiling, for the air to move between so the underneath stays cool. I've seen this in Greece too, not essential but it works well. Cracking project, keep it coming. 👍
That'll help for this year, but winter's almost here, he needs to shore up those levels with something more substantial than grass and he needs a deep trench on the bottom level. If you remember last year that rain water was literally a stream flowing from that deep corner closest to the house.
@@lagringa7518 Grass will do it fine, but I agree that time is the issue. To be honest anything, even some matting would be better than nothing, just in an effort to stop the erosion. A French drain, if of a decent size, would get around the need for the trench - but there needs to be something. Way back I suggested swales, bit of a win-win-win with them, they give a form of terracing, prevent erosion and hold water for the ground to absorb.
I manage to get in a temporary fix while there on this trip. I hope that gets me to spring without to much remedial work. French drains will go in asap. The camera is not really showing the angles and natural run offs. I will try get that into a video soon. They look good - there is a small risk of pooling in two or three small areas but there is nothing I can do about that in the short term as I am out of time to stay.
Cheers to you for planning your landscaping before you start digging. Pathways of sun, stormwater drainage (hope for the best - plan for the worst), hardscape, neighbors to screen out, soil needs, machinery to rent to dig holes (don't do it by hand), use of the flat area. Big stuff first, details later. You'll do well, I'm sure!
What a transformation! Great stuff Richard.....loads of lavender as I mentioned in a previous post - it loves the sun, the bees will love it too (lavender honey from your hive - delicious), smells wonderful, minimal maintenance (prune once - maximum twice - a year), and it will help stabilise the soil, loves scrubby conditions and propagates easily from cuttings too.
Landscaping looks great but I’d be worried about erosion. Maybe get down a ground cover, like a mix of fenugreek, vetch, flax and cowpeas - something to enrich and hold the soil? Just a suggestion. The terraces will look great in the future!
Aye, it doesn't have to be the permanent planting but fast growing. Vetch is great as it grows so fast & also fixes nitrogen. Add campanula, aubretia, lavender & hardy geraniums to your list & the bees will love it.
As others have said, you need weeds or grass to stabilise the soil, or it will probably wash away. And strimming steep banks like that will keep you fit. I've just spent a few hours doing exactly that at my house here in Liguria!
The camera is not really showing the angles and natural run offs. I will try get that into a video soon. They look good - there is a small risk of pooling in two or three small areas but there is nothing I can do about that in the short term as I am out of time to stay.
Big change! Get it planted as soon as possible. The weeds will move in. Parts of mine which I didn't get seeded up in October are already overgrown. I can see it on camera. Quick trip planned before Xmas. Plant rosemary on the banks. They have good roots and the mosquitoes don't like it. Lavender is another good one. Clover seed is great as it doesn't need much looking after. It's going to cost you a fortune with the amount of plants you're going to need! Hope to get to see you sometime. Roger
Drainage AWAY from the house Mate or they've created a funnel straight to it! Stone retaining walls for the terraces before planting and lots of shrubs to hold the soil or the first torrential rain will dissolve it all into a mud hole with your house as the dam which those olive trees won't hold back this winter for sure! Don't count your eggs before they're hatched, think of your hard scape first. Best of luck!
AAAAAAH!!! Richie, When you started this journey and shared your thoughts for this area of the house, this was exactly what I hoped you would do. Man what a beauty!. It's exactly the rite plan, the trees (olives of course) and patio, sun and shade workin' together for year round access. The flat area at the bottom (near the wood deck) so much potential. Man you don't need ideas from us, yours are pretty good. Pat on the back. Chin up and go for it. Cheers well done
Before planting the olive trees, I suggest to head over to your neighbor, help with the harvest and have a chat about how they manage their grove and take some measurements. It looks neatly kept, the trees appear to be 2,5 by 4 meters, if you dont trim them, they grow three times the size at least and fast. I have seen properties in Abruzzo with massive ones 6x12 meters, roughly estimated, that probably haven't seen a trim in ages. You need to consider this in your spacing.
A few have called by all offering the same advice. I am lucky with the space that I have to spread them out well. I thought I showed this, or maybe it is in the next video. 👍
@threeacresofmarche All good, you can plant them as close or as far as you want, I just recognized the wide pattern compared to what for example your neighbors do. They keep them in orchard style, trimming them, while based on the spacing, you seem to go for hands off approach, and give them full reign to grow how big they want and the will grow big, if let unchecked.
Richard, truly amazing...until you scaled the terrace I couldn't determine the height!!! Great plans ahead, one could feel your excitement and vision for the area. Some folks have mentioned drainage , hopefully you've addressed it.👍
I manage to get in a temporary fix while there on this trip. I hope that gets me to spring without to much remedial work. French drains will go in asap.
Drainage & retaining so important, will you do some stone walls? We built on a large piece of land & once the digger moved the soil it turned into a waterfall every time we had heavy rain, involved French drains, swales, lots of planting & laying bark to keep the water away from the house. A tank is a good idea to catch rain water for the garden. Love the idea of lots of olive trees & fruit trees, always great when your garden gives back! Great work it’s a stunning place. Beautiful bike ride too.
As this goes on, my admiration grows, like your weeds 🙂 House "projects" as a 'solo', I've done - and there's those moments... when you're on your todd... Still, the achievements are great. Plenty of good advice will come from others. I would just say that, if you have an afternoon or two, visit a "posh open Villa/ Italian garden" in your district--- and you will see what really grows well/pretty/architectural etc and what sizes things can get to and where they face. It's like a free vision of what could work ...and what 'angle' of raw bank will hold up under severe rain..and what roots 'secure the banks nicely etc. My family has Olive trees - and you just need room around them to get the ladder up - and shaking/raking to harvest
Hey Bud, re trees. Get them in early. They take time to establish so plant a few every trip to get ahead and start with the slowest growers first. Some fruit tress when first planted will do nothing for 2 or 3 years while their root ball establishes. Consider excess fruit mess and don't put fruit like figs too close to where to plan to dine or where they can touch the house. Some fruits won't produce edible produce from market trees or seeds. For those special trees you want good eating fruit from, go to a farm producer of the fruit variety you want and buy grafted stock eg (Avacardos, Mangos and some oranges). Some fruits are suseptible to diseases, so researxh what varieties do well in your area before investing in tree you want only to find they don't so well where you are.Some trees need pollinators (trees of their family near by or male female etc). If you want to use grapes as cove over a pergola, there is a good 4 ton5 year training process to make that work, so plan for temporary shade options while your planted shade fills out. I hope that helps Take care D
I was only there for a few days on this trip but do plan on getting trees in asap. The field needs tilling and drainage put in before I can really set out where the big stuff will go. Lots to do, but this is a good start.
Fab Richard, Opens the whole site up beautifully. I'm feeling you should live with it for a while and then decide what goes where. Kitchen garden, vines, fruit trees, patio, pergola, outdoor kitchen as you've mentioned?? The possibilities are almost limitless. Well done. The mini digger man knew what he was at!! 😂😅
Apart from planting the trees that you're sure of, I'd cover the area with ground cover to hold the dust as well as stop erosion and then work gradually area by area. This will be magnificent in ten years. Great to have a long term plan.
I try a temporary ground cover on parts of this before I leave. I will try get that video out soon. I have no idea if that will work over this first winter but was limited with options because of time and budget.🤞
That bike ride looked incredible Rich, not sure i could handle all that climbing!! The views and that sky colour 😍. Love your channel, exciting times ahead with the landscaping!!
I have been silently enjoying your adventures since the start. Love the progress you’re making. This is a big step in the whole plan. Agree with those who warn about proper drainage and the risks of erosion. Start with grass: fast growing, easy to change later or to plant trees in. Was in Le Marche, a little more to the south, just two weeks ago helping friends to harvest their olives. Very nice and relaxing to do. Particular good harvest this year, ended up with lots of very good olive oil. So, good plan to plant those. I suggest some flowering bushes too, oleander maybe. Loved your cycle tour! Keep up the good work and the videos. Lots of success!
Really Chuffed for you, seeing such a massive visual progress is obviously a massive motivation boost! Slightly worried about the drainage reading other comments but im sure you will have it covered! Cant wait to see how it looks next summer !
The camera is not really showing the angles and natural run offs. I will try get that into a video soon. They look good - there is a small risk of pooling in two or three small areas but there is nothing I can do about that in the short term as I am out of time to stay.
Defo as baby trees will need watering for a year or so when no rain...Water harvesting also good to keep plants going - also look around ar the plants that do well in the area and/or ask farmer/local nurseries or plant markets
The landscaping looks great. But the cycle ride - that was amazing! That is what it is all about - cycling in the Italian mountains. Absolutely loved it.
Greetings - weirt RUclips here today. Would not show comments or let me add a comment...Good to see you and quite a great project ahead. ,I think uf I were you I would go to visit the fatm up hill from you during the olive season.. Interesting and they may offer incite of what you shoukd do wuth your tree ourchases , plantings AND spacing. Ie for harvesting...
You really need 30 olive trees to make it worthwhile. It's roughly six kg of olives to make one litre of oil. Some mills only accept 100 kg as a minimum but not all. Drainage around the house as a priority and CO detector.
CO dectector is in that area - you should see it on my desk or on the mantle. I am not sure of the minimum required by the local mills so thanks for the stats on the typical yield - I did wonder how much you can typically get. 👍
OM my, what a job is lying ahead,, Well done, and good luck in planning. For me it's a daunting project,,I will keep following you to see the progress and end result.
Great video as always, especially enjoyed seeing the newly done landscaping which i was not expecting just yet. Stunning views during the bike ride, truly awe inspiring.
Planning these things in Italy is tough. This should have happened months ago and the windows should have been delivered now. That was reversed so getting used to things happen when they happen is part of the experience of adapting to life in Italy.😂
Fantastic blank canvas. Everyone is right about water run-off; need to get a plant which soaks up water and provides lots of shade. The new flat area has huge potential as well. Bear in mind when choosing locations for things like your morning coffee spot, that the sun moves a little each day and what is an ideal location in early November, maybe unbearable in the height of summer.
I have now been there during every month of the year and sunrise / set angles are well studied...over coffee or wine.😂 The run offs should be ok - I will try show this clearer in a video soon.
A RV hookup area for friends, little private area for them. Grape Garden area and huge Pergola and Fire pit area. Flagstone pathways Strategic Unique Shad Trees, and flowering trees Some type of Water Feature small pond or little stream Outdoor wine bar Small Rose Garden Rustic Fencing in areas to enhance your landscape Unique Carport area to cover your vehicle Make some cute walking trails throughout your property
in Italy the cypress is seen as a cemetery tree... don't put too many of them, and remember to also evaluate where to put the olive trees, because during flowering they produce a lot of pollen, everything underneath them turns yellow 😅
Additionally, consider ground Dutch Clover for erosion protection for those retaining walls and lawn. It’s a drought-tolerant lawn, the best type of ground clover to use is white Dutch clover (Trifolium repens), particularly considered a "drought tolerant" strain of white clover; it's a versatile option that can function as a ground cover and is effective at preventing erosion while also handling dry conditions well. Put down a ton of seeds to get started on holding those walls in place. Also, if they haven’t already done it when they did all of that work it would be good to put some drain pipes in around the house to divert the water away. I’m hoping they did that when they did the work seems like they would have they should’ve known to do so but you didn’t say so. I’m questioning anyway looking fabulous.❤
Now I can understand why you were so keen to get it done, it changes everything around your house. You can finally start planting and getting a feeling for the whole area. Fantastic.👍❤️
Wow. Amazing space to develop now! Yeah, plant those trees asap. That’s what I’ve learnt. All the other landscaping can be quite quick to build etc, but ye olde trees take time to grow.
Great step forward Richard. I am worried about the rainwater you'll experience. I think retaining walls and steps. I have seen land slides on my sisters newly planted vineyard in the past in Piedmont about 8yrs ago. I know it's an expense but it would be good if you could get some mature shrubs in as soon as possible.
The camera is not really showing the angles and natural run offs. I will try get that into a video soon. They look good - there is a small risk of pooling in two or three small areas but there is nothing I can do about that in the short term as I am out of time to stay.
Hello! Hubs and I are in Florida, USA. Hubs and I are looking in Italy for a place as well. Found your channel and you describe exactly what we’re looking for! I have cousins in Ascoli Pecina in the Le Marche Region. Anywho, hubs has 40 years in construction and recommends that you put a French Drain along the bottom terrace, for run off to the road, or away from the house. We’re enjoying your vids! Great information for future Expats! 😊
Wow Richard what a big Progress so happy for you!! You have plenty of time to figure out what you want to do and how you will do it you certainly waited long enough to get your permits ! The property looks more bigger it’s going to be amazing!! Good luck and we will definitely be right here waiting. Thanks for sharing ❤🇺🇸
OMG! It just crazy to see the difference. I would be excited as I love to do landscape and having a fresh clean start would be so awesome. You’re so lucky! I am executed for you and I can’t wait to see your progress. Love it, love it, thanks for sharing your life with us.
Have checked to see if Italy has anything close to the Master Gardener program that we have in States. They usually have a wealth of information available on soil,growing conditions and suitable plants for your area. They also might have display gardens.
When I lived in the Santa Cruz Mountains we built a little wooden shed for a sauna, heated by a cast iron log burner. Outside of the shed we had a cast iron clawfoot bathtub filled with ice cold well water. That was out plunge pool. Then back into the sauna again. We cut a piece of plywood to fit in the bottom of the bath and in winter a fire could be built beneath the tub heating the water. Gorgeous way to take a bath, with the crisp winter air and stars above 🌜🌠
Amazing content thank you.🙏 I would go & have a look at some terraced gardens give you some ideas maybe some steps pools trellis etc. really really great episode 👍👍🙏🇬🇧
Think what plants live in the med. herbs hibiscus and mimosa is beautiful. In Italy in early summer they give out tiny poses of mimosa for the women I thinks it’s a kind of lady’s day. Smells divine beautiful lemon colour. Those tall pointed cypress trees are also very Italian with statues amongst them. Gorgeous
The farmer that uses the main field does this for me. There is usually 3 or 4 that run accross and diagonally to take the water away to various run offs. I show this in some of my earlier videos.👍
I like comfrey. The roots go down 15 feet or more. The roots bring up elements from millions of years ago. You can harvest comfrey leaves, mulch them, and they make great fertilizer. 100% organic, and free --- except for the labor. Some people make tea from comfrey leaves. Not me. Too many unknowns I really enjoy watching your productions. I'm sending good thoughts in your direction. Thank you for reading my contribution from Minnesota.
Fantastic you have your blank canvas. Olive trees are quite slow growing I would suggest aswell some lemon trees orange trees figs maybe some grape vines. Maybe get some professional advice as trees are hard to move. Very exciting for you 👍👋🏻
Great progress, Richard! And you're getting some wonderful advice, I see :) I think a patch of sunflowers, off in the distance near your tree, would be gorgeous. Keep dreaming!
start with erosion prevention on the steep edges of your terraces. Not easy, and the soil looks heavily compacted. Try to get that grass/other vegetative cover in before the rainy season, hopefully it will be warm enough to sprout even in Nov. That's my gut quick reaction at all of 2:42 minutes in with the aerial shots. Stormwater retention/diversion measures?
2:42 in... 😂 I love the honesty. Many skip stuff and then ask questions or comment on this bits they skip.😁 I manage to get in a temporary fix while there on this trip. I hope that gets me to spring without too much remedial work. French drains will go in asap.
Great work but plant more fruit trees as Italy i scovered in olives you can buy anywhere. Herbs on the banks even strawberries will grow there. What about how to water all these plants too . Great work tough been watching since the beginning your doing a great job. I'm in Queensland Australia.
A little bit of everything would be nice. I hope to get in some water storage half way up and at the top corner so that I can naturally irregate what gets planted. I can top these up from the well during summer . Another grand plan on the list !😂
I great tool in NZ for holes is a fence post hole digger. It’s a little like two inverted shovels facing each other what are hinged. Saves heaps of time. Maybe they have similar in Italy?
They do - they have all the same, or similar tools. I am buying and adding to my tools as I go (and save). Materials are expensive so often I have to make do with what I have. Slow progress.
This has to be one of your best videos. Love you are laying out the future of your little farm to be such a beautiful place some day. Epic bike ride. I bet that staging of your camera to ride past and then go fetch to relocate again was double the work of just riding it without your videoing work. I can't wait to return to your Three Acres again.
Careful that u have inadvertently created water fall and pond around your home. But, great to see progress and your vision and passion coming to life. All power to you.
The camera is not really showing the angles and natural run offs. I will try get that into a video soon. They look good - there is a small risk of pooling in two or three small areas but there is nothing I can do about that in the short term as I am out of time to stay.
I manage to get in a temporary fix while there on this trip. I hope that gets me to spring without too much remedial work. French drains will go in asap.
I manage to get in a temporary fix while there on this trip. I hope that gets me to spring without to much remedial work. French drains will go in asap.
Man, everything‘s looking good. I follow your channel good stuff. As for what to do with that back half of the house man I’m concerned about the flow of water directly to your house so I agree with everybody terrace and drainage to make sure that water doesn’t flow right to your house which it looks like it’s gonna. As for the front of the house you can create access front front parking through the bushes and trees to the flat area and have that be your parking lot instead of right in front of the house. Good luck!
The camera is not really showing the angles and natural run offs. I will try get that into a video soon. They look good - there is a small risk of pooling in two or three small areas but there is nothing I can do about that in the short term as I am out of time to stay.
Richard , you are living the life. The house will be wonderfully. Consider directing the water away from your house- drainit away!!! Best regards from Sweden
Wonderful landscape feature. I might suggest a cover grass before the winter and spring rains. Absent that weeds could take over and then it's a battle against blight as you can appreciate. That and a proper ground cover prevents erosion. It will be very entertaining to watch this side of the project take form. Good luck, there are no wrongs here.
I manage to get in a temporary fix while there on this trip. I hope that gets me to spring without too much remedial work. French drains will go in asap.
Love the earth works!! I did the same to my property in Australia, and it's a typical bloke thing wherever you live. Grab a coffee and stand on it, sit on it, walk over it, marvel at it. Was doing this for days. Reckon I'll do the same on your property.
Been watching your channel since the start. For a few years now, since lockdown, I guess I've just been looking for something more in life but something that brings me peace and joy. I've been looking at the typical Sicily route for a few years, but since your channel started, I've added Marche to that list. It's not something I can do in the near future but it's what I'm now working towards. Just having that, gives me more motivation to ensure it happens. Thanks for helping me find that. Put me down for a bottle of the old olive oil 😁
Hi @chadberserk1050 . That plan sounds great - I hope it all comes off for you. The journey of this, although very challenging, is rewarding. Dive in. Good luck!
That looks like great riding country. I haven't ridden in Marche, but last month I did some climbs that have been in the Giro in Abruzzo and Veneto - also rode to San Marino. We're vaguely thinking of buying a place in Italy and proximity to good cycling is important!
Retaining walls and drainage ASAP!
That was also my first thought. Especially the drainage.
I manage to get in a temporary fix while there on this trip. I hope that gets me to spring without too much remedial work. French drains will go in asap.
The camera is not really showing the angles and natural run offs. I will try get that into a video soon. They look good - there is a small risk of pooling in two or three small areas but there is nothing I can do about that in the short term as I am out of time to stay.
"Fun" fact regarding the stove: where I live there was this story all over the news two yeaes ago or so. A father built a stove into a leisure cabin. First users were his daughter and four friends for a sleepover. But he didn't install it properly and carbon monoxide accumulated, putting them sound to sleep forever. You might be a good handyman or lucky or both, but maybe get a carbon monoxide detector, it's always a useful thing to have with a fireplace, and they cost like 20 bucks.
I have a carbon monoxide alarm in that area.👍
my experience with planting olives is this: think about how you will harvest them. Leave at least 5m between trees, don't plant too close to a ditch or the edge of the terrace, plant them in straight lines to make cleaning between them easier with a tractor, think about watering them, maybe put some irrigation in, think about pruning which is a yearly job, make some steps on your terrace or a ramp for a tractor, buy olive trees that are the same type as your neighbour has, that way you know they won't have any problems, offer to help him with the harvest to gain some knowledge, don't plant more than you need (they're quite time/labour intensive harvest, watering/pruning). Good luck!
Yes yes and yes again people are surprisdd bythe work to maintain the trees and ground around them tail wagging dog if u get too many looks stunning tho well done
Great blank canvas. My strongest suggestion is to stabilize those terrace walls.
I manage to get in a temporary fix while there on this trip. I hope that gets me to spring without too much remedial work. French drains will go in asap.
Hi Richard, Grass mate, the farmers will know the best variety, it will grow fast, stabilize the banks and terraces. You can always dig a hole in the grass. If you get some serious rain those banks will be coming in the doors.
The camera is not really showing the angles and natural run offs. I will try get that into a video soon. They look good - there is a small risk of pooling in two or three small areas but there is nothing I can do about that in the short term as I am out of time to stay.
A set of steps up to an upper small terrace for your coffee spot might give the garden some added interest. Nothing fancy maybe a little gravel with a bistro set to get the morning sun and may be shaded in the midday sun by some trees in time.
Many zones on the terraces linked simply - that is in my head....now to just execute the vision!😂
You could plant herbs on the front of the terraces to hold them in place. Things like sage, oregano, thyme, rosemary. These will spread, smell great and won’t require that you mow grass on the front of the terraces which will be hard work. Herbs will attract pollinators which you may not want near an outdoor kitchen so keep that in mind.
Thanks - I think all of this near the house would be great.
Excited for you. Finally, a dramatic change. Quickly get it shored up. You don’t want risk of mud slides. Best of luck
Looks really good! First thing, plants you want are best but even weeds are better than nothing, you can kill them later - get something(s) growing all over the bare earth ASAP! Grass is quick... This will stop erosion, which will happen far more easily and far quickly that you realise, and once it starts it accelerates...
Something we had in Zim was an open air Summer kitchen with a top roof and a lower ceiling, for the air to move between so the underneath stays cool. I've seen this in Greece too, not essential but it works well.
Cracking project, keep it coming. 👍
That'll help for this year, but winter's almost here, he needs to shore up those levels with something more substantial than grass and he needs a deep trench on the bottom level. If you remember last year that rain water was literally a stream flowing from that deep corner closest to the house.
@@lagringa7518 Grass will do it fine, but I agree that time is the issue. To be honest anything, even some matting would be better than nothing, just in an effort to stop the erosion. A French drain, if of a decent size, would get around the need for the trench - but there needs to be something. Way back I suggested swales, bit of a win-win-win with them, they give a form of terracing, prevent erosion and hold water for the ground to absorb.
I manage to get in a temporary fix while there on this trip. I hope that gets me to spring without to much remedial work. French drains will go in asap. The camera is not really showing the angles and natural run offs. I will try get that into a video soon. They look good - there is a small risk of pooling in two or three small areas but there is nothing I can do about that in the short term as I am out of time to stay.
Cheers to you for planning your landscaping before you start digging. Pathways of sun, stormwater drainage (hope for the best - plan for the worst), hardscape, neighbors to screen out, soil needs, machinery to rent to dig holes (don't do it by hand), use of the flat area. Big stuff first, details later. You'll do well, I'm sure!
Greetings from Italians in Wolverhampton! Enjoy the sunshine! It's grey here!
What a transformation! Great stuff Richard.....loads of lavender as I mentioned in a previous post - it loves the sun, the bees will love it too (lavender honey from your hive - delicious), smells wonderful, minimal maintenance (prune once - maximum twice - a year), and it will help stabilise the soil, loves scrubby conditions and propagates easily from cuttings too.
Landscaping looks great but I’d be worried about erosion. Maybe get down a ground cover, like a mix of fenugreek, vetch, flax and cowpeas - something to enrich and hold the soil? Just a suggestion. The terraces will look great in the future!
Aye, it doesn't have to be the permanent planting but fast growing. Vetch is great as it grows so fast & also fixes nitrogen.
Add campanula, aubretia, lavender & hardy geraniums to your list & the bees will love it.
I only had a few days there. I try a temporary fix to get me to spring where I hope to get in all the full drainage etc.🤞
As others have said, you need weeds or grass to stabilise the soil, or it will probably wash away. And strimming steep banks like that will keep you fit. I've just spent a few hours doing exactly that at my house here in Liguria!
I don't think there is such thing as flat in Liguria!
@@vic6820 😂
The camera is not really showing the angles and natural run offs. I will try get that into a video soon. They look good - there is a small risk of pooling in two or three small areas but there is nothing I can do about that in the short term as I am out of time to stay.
Big change! Get it planted as soon as possible. The weeds will move in. Parts of mine which I didn't get seeded up in October are already overgrown. I can see it on camera. Quick trip planned before Xmas. Plant rosemary on the banks. They have good roots and the mosquitoes don't like it. Lavender is another good one. Clover seed is great as it doesn't need much looking after. It's going to cost you a fortune with the amount of plants you're going to need! Hope to get to see you sometime. Roger
Thanks for the tips. I manage to get in a temporary fix while there on this trip. I hope that gets me to spring without to much remedial work.
Drainage AWAY from the house Mate or they've created a funnel straight to it! Stone retaining walls for the terraces before planting and lots of shrubs to hold the soil or the first torrential rain will dissolve it all into a mud hole with your house as the dam which those olive trees won't hold back this winter for sure! Don't count your eggs before they're hatched, think of your hard scape first. Best of luck!
Agree, think with a downpour the house will become a pool unless drainage will take care of this!
Gabion cages would fix any concerns. After seeing the recent rains in Spain we don’t want any devastating weather to wreck Richard’s hard work. 👍
@@geofftaylor9193 Those aren't very esthetically pleasing close to the house where you'd like it to be pretty.
Makes absolutely sense! You need to keep the terraces in place. Hell of a job since they look big space but it will be worth it.
For a cheap quick fix to hold back mud you could use straw bales. They can eventually be used as mulch or composted.
AAAAAAH!!! Richie, When you started this journey and shared your thoughts for this area of the house, this was exactly what I hoped you would do. Man what a beauty!. It's exactly the rite plan, the trees (olives of course) and patio, sun and shade workin' together for year round access. The flat area at the bottom (near the wood deck) so much potential. Man you don't need ideas from us, yours are pretty good. Pat on the back. Chin up and go for it. Cheers well done
Cheers @eziotaddeo1726😁
OMG ,😮 I did not expect this. What a difference, this will give you a great boost.
So much for the lawnmower.😂🤣
Before planting the olive trees, I suggest to head over to your neighbor, help with the harvest and have a chat about how they manage their grove and take some measurements. It looks neatly kept, the trees appear to be 2,5 by 4 meters, if you dont trim them, they grow three times the size at least and fast. I have seen properties in Abruzzo with massive ones 6x12 meters, roughly estimated, that probably haven't seen a trim in ages. You need to consider this in your spacing.
A few have called by all offering the same advice. I am lucky with the space that I have to spread them out well. I thought I showed this, or maybe it is in the next video. 👍
@threeacresofmarche All good, you can plant them as close or as far as you want, I just recognized the wide pattern compared to what for example your neighbors do. They keep them in orchard style, trimming them, while based on the spacing, you seem to go for hands off approach, and give them full reign to grow how big they want and the will grow big, if let unchecked.
Richard, truly amazing...until you scaled the terrace I couldn't determine the height!!! Great plans ahead, one could feel your excitement and vision
for the area. Some folks have mentioned drainage , hopefully you've addressed it.👍
I manage to get in a temporary fix while there on this trip. I hope that gets me to spring without to much remedial work. French drains will go in asap.
Drainage & retaining so important, will you do some stone walls? We built on a large piece of land & once the digger moved the soil it turned into a waterfall every time we had heavy rain, involved French drains, swales, lots of planting & laying bark to keep the water away from the house. A tank is a good idea to catch rain water for the garden. Love the idea of lots of olive trees & fruit trees, always great when your garden gives back! Great work it’s a stunning place. Beautiful bike ride too.
Walls, steps, and a lot of planting. I will try an explain in more detail once I figure out the space and put the french drains in.
As this goes on, my admiration grows, like your weeds 🙂 House "projects" as a 'solo', I've done - and there's those moments... when you're on your todd... Still, the achievements are great. Plenty of good advice will come from others. I would just say that, if you have an afternoon or two, visit a "posh open Villa/ Italian garden" in your district--- and you will see what really grows well/pretty/architectural etc and what sizes things can get to and where they face. It's like a free vision of what could work ...and what 'angle' of raw bank will hold up under severe rain..and what roots 'secure the banks nicely etc. My family has Olive trees - and you just need room around them to get the ladder up - and shaking/raking to harvest
Maybe a pergola with grape vines on your patio to stand over a nice long table?? And some stone steps up to the various levels. Will all be fabulous.
Classic, but really really messy.
@@lagringa7518 Not to forget bird poop too.
Sounds great !
Hey Bud, re trees. Get them in early. They take time to establish so plant a few every trip to get ahead and start with the slowest growers first. Some fruit tress when first planted will do nothing for 2 or 3 years while their root ball establishes. Consider excess fruit mess and don't put fruit like figs too close to where to plan to dine or where they can touch the house. Some fruits won't produce edible produce from market trees or seeds. For those special trees you want good eating fruit from, go to a farm producer of the fruit variety you want and buy grafted stock eg (Avacardos, Mangos and some oranges). Some fruits are suseptible to diseases, so researxh what varieties do well in your area before investing in tree you want only to find they don't so well where you are.Some trees need pollinators (trees of their family near by or male female etc). If you want to use grapes as cove over a pergola, there is a good 4 ton5 year training process to make that work, so plan for temporary shade options while your planted shade fills out. I hope that helps Take care D
I was only there for a few days on this trip but do plan on getting trees in asap. The field needs tilling and drainage put in before I can really set out where the big stuff will go. Lots to do, but this is a good start.
Wow, never did I think the landscaping would look like that! So much room!!
Fab Richard, Opens the whole site up beautifully. I'm feeling you should live with it for a while and then decide what goes where. Kitchen garden, vines, fruit trees, patio, pergola, outdoor kitchen as you've mentioned?? The possibilities are almost limitless. Well done. The mini digger man knew what he was at!! 😂😅
So happy for you. Major progress! It is going to be tremendous when it is planted and the trees start to fill in. 👏🏼
Apart from planting the trees that you're sure of, I'd cover the area with ground cover to hold the dust as well as stop erosion and then work gradually area by area. This will be magnificent in ten years. Great to have a long term plan.
I try a temporary ground cover on parts of this before I leave. I will try get that video out soon. I have no idea if that will work over this first winter but was limited with options because of time and budget.🤞
That bike ride looked incredible Rich, not sure i could handle all that climbing!! The views and that sky colour 😍. Love your channel, exciting times ahead with the landscaping!!
I have been silently enjoying your adventures since the start. Love the progress you’re making. This is a big step in the whole plan. Agree with those who warn about proper drainage and the risks of erosion. Start with grass: fast growing, easy to change later or to plant trees in.
Was in Le Marche, a little more to the south, just two weeks ago helping friends to harvest their olives. Very nice and relaxing to do. Particular good harvest this year, ended up with lots of very good olive oil. So, good plan to plant those. I suggest some flowering bushes too, oleander maybe.
Loved your cycle tour! Keep up the good work and the videos. Lots of success!
Thanks for watching Eric.😊
Holy moley, that is an amazing change for your property! Well done!!
Really Chuffed for you, seeing such a massive visual progress is obviously a massive motivation boost! Slightly worried about the drainage reading other comments but im sure you will have it covered! Cant wait to see how it looks next summer !
The camera is not really showing the angles and natural run offs. I will try get that into a video soon. They look good - there is a small risk of pooling in two or three small areas but there is nothing I can do about that in the short term as I am out of time to stay.
Fantastic landscape, those terraces are going to be gorgeous. Property value just went up. ❤
Put some basic trickle irrigation onto those new trees too!
Defo as baby trees will need watering for a year or so when no rain...Water harvesting also good to keep plants going - also look around ar the plants that do well in the area and/or ask farmer/local nurseries or plant markets
The landscaping looks great. But the cycle ride - that was amazing! That is what it is all about - cycling in the Italian mountains. Absolutely loved it.
Yes! The downtime is what this is all about. Cycling here will never get boring.
Greetings - weirt RUclips here today. Would not show comments or let me add a comment...Good to see you and quite a great project ahead. ,I think uf I were you I would go to visit the fatm up hill from you during the olive season.. Interesting and they may offer incite of what you shoukd do wuth your tree ourchases , plantings AND spacing. Ie for harvesting...
Perfect weather for the bike ride Thanks for sharing!
You really need 30 olive trees to make it worthwhile. It's roughly six kg of olives to make one litre of oil. Some mills only accept 100 kg as a minimum but not all.
Drainage around the house as a priority and CO detector.
CO dectector is in that area - you should see it on my desk or on the mantle.
I am not sure of the minimum required by the local mills so thanks for the stats on the typical yield - I did wonder how much you can typically get. 👍
OM my, what a job is lying ahead,, Well done, and good luck in planning. For me it's a daunting project,,I will keep following you to see the progress and end result.
Great video as always, especially enjoyed seeing the newly done landscaping which i was not expecting just yet. Stunning views during the bike ride, truly awe inspiring.
Planning these things in Italy is tough. This should have happened months ago and the windows should have been delivered now. That was reversed so getting used to things happen when they happen is part of the experience of adapting to life in Italy.😂
Fantastic blank canvas. Everyone is right about water run-off; need to get a plant which soaks up water and provides lots of shade. The new flat area has huge potential as well. Bear in mind when choosing locations for things like your morning coffee spot, that the sun moves a little each day and what is an ideal location in early November, maybe unbearable in the height of summer.
I have now been there during every month of the year and sunrise / set angles are well studied...over coffee or wine.😂
The run offs should be ok - I will try show this clearer in a video soon.
Well done Richard. You really are selling the dream of Italy.
A RV hookup area for friends, little private area for them.
Grape Garden area and huge Pergola and Fire pit area.
Flagstone pathways
Strategic Unique Shad Trees, and flowering trees
Some type of Water Feature small pond or little stream
Outdoor wine bar
Small Rose Garden
Rustic Fencing in areas to enhance your landscape
Unique Carport area to cover your vehicle
Make some cute walking trails throughout your property
Great ideas to add to the list. Thank you
in Italy the cypress is seen as a cemetery tree... don't put too many of them, and remember to also evaluate where to put the olive trees, because during flowering they produce a lot of pollen, everything underneath them turns yellow 😅
Gabion / local stone filled retaining walls - from a welshman watching from afar in Malaysia. Epic transformation.
Additionally, consider ground Dutch Clover for erosion protection for those retaining walls and lawn. It’s a drought-tolerant lawn, the best type of ground clover to use is white Dutch clover (Trifolium repens), particularly considered a "drought tolerant" strain of white clover; it's a versatile option that can function as a ground cover and is effective at preventing erosion while also handling dry conditions well. Put down a ton of seeds to get started on holding those walls in place. Also, if they haven’t already done it when they did all of that work it would be good to put some drain pipes in around the house to divert the water away. I’m hoping they did that when they did the work seems like they would have they should’ve known to do so but you didn’t say so. I’m questioning anyway looking fabulous.❤
Now I can understand why you were so keen to get it done, it changes everything around your house. You can finally start planting and getting a feeling for the whole area. Fantastic.👍❤️
Hats off Richard! Wonderful progress! 👏👏👏
Wow, Richard 🤩 What a big project! But at the end it will be great 👍The bicycle tour was sure very taff 😜 Greetings from Austria
Wow. Amazing space to develop now! Yeah, plant those trees asap. That’s what I’ve learnt. All the other landscaping can be quite quick to build etc, but ye olde trees take time to grow.
Great step forward Richard. I am worried about the rainwater you'll experience. I think retaining walls and steps. I have seen land slides on my sisters newly planted vineyard in the past in Piedmont about 8yrs ago. I know it's an expense but it would be good if you could get some mature shrubs in as soon as possible.
The camera is not really showing the angles and natural run offs. I will try get that into a video soon. They look good - there is a small risk of pooling in two or three small areas but there is nothing I can do about that in the short term as I am out of time to stay.
You are living me dream life. heheheh. Glad to see your property taking shape.
Hello! Hubs and I are in Florida, USA. Hubs and I are looking in Italy for a place as well. Found your channel and you describe exactly what we’re looking for! I have cousins in Ascoli Pecina in the Le Marche Region. Anywho, hubs has 40 years in construction and recommends that you put a French Drain along the bottom terrace, for run off to the road, or away from the house. We’re enjoying your vids! Great information for future Expats! 😊
I'm so excited for you with these most recent changes. Congrats mate.
Wow Richard what a big Progress so happy for you!! You have plenty of time to figure out what you want to do and how you will do it you certainly waited long enough to get your permits ! The property looks more bigger it’s going to be amazing!! Good luck and we will definitely be right here waiting. Thanks for sharing ❤🇺🇸
yep, that's how i would have done it! 😂😂 they've done a great job, olive trees at the ready.
Amazing transformation. Well done. Defo has potential now. It’s coming together.
Great drone shots, Richard!
OMG! It just crazy to see the difference. I would be excited as I love to do landscape and having a fresh clean start would be so awesome. You’re so lucky! I am executed for you and I can’t wait to see your progress. Love it, love it, thanks for sharing your life with us.
Cheers !
ohhh bello finally!! so nice so air so space so beautiful BRAVO!!! now you really change the value of this place… breath it GRANDE Richard!
Lovely video. The bike ride was spectacular 😊
Holy Moly, that's going to be amazing. 😍
Have checked to see if Italy has anything close to the Master Gardener program that we have in States. They usually have a wealth of information available on soil,growing conditions and suitable plants for your area. They also might have display gardens.
When I lived in the Santa Cruz Mountains we built a little wooden shed for a sauna, heated by a cast iron log burner. Outside of the shed we had a cast iron clawfoot bathtub filled with ice cold well water. That was out plunge pool. Then back into the sauna again. We cut a piece of plywood to fit in the bottom of the bath and in winter a fire could be built beneath the tub heating the water. Gorgeous way to take a bath, with the crisp winter air and stars above 🌜🌠
That sounds fantastic.
Quite a huge change. Looks great. Just hope that part of Italy does not get the rain that they've been having down in Catania area.
Amazing content thank you.🙏
I would go & have a look at some terraced gardens give you some ideas maybe some steps pools trellis etc. really really great episode 👍👍🙏🇬🇧
Living vicariously until my homes sell in Montana. Your property is glorious.
Think what plants live in the med. herbs hibiscus and mimosa is beautiful. In Italy in early summer they give out tiny poses of mimosa for the women I thinks it’s a kind of lady’s day. Smells divine beautiful lemon colour. Those tall pointed cypress trees are also very Italian with statues amongst them. Gorgeous
Che trasformazione!! OMG, that's a job you have right there in an instant, that'll be wonderful to see transformed, in 'Italian time'. 🤩
I suggest you dig a 300mm deep v shaped cut-off ditch at the edge of the field to guide run-off away from the terraces.
The farmer that uses the main field does this for me. There is usually 3 or 4 that run accross and diagonally to take the water away to various run offs. I show this in some of my earlier videos.👍
I like comfrey. The roots go down 15 feet or more. The roots bring up elements from millions of years ago. You can harvest comfrey leaves, mulch them, and they make great fertilizer. 100% organic, and free --- except for the labor. Some people make tea from comfrey leaves. Not me. Too many unknowns I really enjoy watching your productions. I'm sending good thoughts in your direction. Thank you for reading my contribution from Minnesota.
Wow, amazing how it has opened up your property. I can see a terrace with olive trees, lavender & rosemary 😊❤
Good idea to landscape it out and decide where the larger trees/ shrubs will go,
Video semplicemente bellissimo. Complimenti Richard.
I have 26 olive trees at my place in abruzzo, produced 45l of oil this year
Fantastic! Olive oil on every dish in your house. Lovely.😊
Fantastic you have your blank canvas. Olive trees are quite slow growing I would suggest aswell some lemon trees orange trees figs maybe some grape vines. Maybe get some professional advice as trees are hard to move. Very exciting for you 👍👋🏻
Wow, that looks great! I'm looking forward to seeing it in person.
Cheers Joseph! See you soon.
It’s going to be so good
Great progress, Richard! And you're getting some wonderful advice, I see :) I think a patch of sunflowers, off in the distance near your tree, would be gorgeous. Keep dreaming!
start with erosion prevention on the steep edges of your terraces. Not easy, and the soil looks heavily compacted. Try to get that grass/other vegetative cover in before the rainy season, hopefully it will be warm enough to sprout even in Nov. That's my gut quick reaction at all of 2:42 minutes in with the aerial shots. Stormwater retention/diversion measures?
2:42 in... 😂 I love the honesty.
Many skip stuff and then ask questions or comment on this bits they skip.😁
I manage to get in a temporary fix while there on this trip. I hope that gets me to spring without too much remedial work. French drains will go in asap.
Absolutely stunning, I don't think any camera can do it justice though. What a great place to cycle.👌
What a transformation 😊
Great work but plant more fruit trees as Italy i scovered in olives you can buy anywhere. Herbs on the banks even strawberries will grow there. What about how to water all these plants too . Great work tough been watching since the beginning your doing a great job. I'm in Queensland Australia.
A little bit of everything would be nice. I hope to get in some water storage half way up and at the top corner so that I can naturally irregate what gets planted. I can top these up from the well during summer . Another grand plan on the list !😂
Great views,stuff it with trees,😎 good luck
Remember olive trees need to be well spaced because they need to be pruned in way that helps with the harvest. So wide and low.
I great tool in NZ for holes is a fence post hole digger. It’s a little like two inverted shovels facing each other what are hinged. Saves heaps of time. Maybe they have similar in Italy?
They do - they have all the same, or similar tools. I am buying and adding to my tools as I go (and save). Materials are expensive so often I have to make do with what I have. Slow progress.
The terracing is very nicely done. Beautiful. What a transformation.
This has to be one of your best videos. Love you are laying out the future of your little farm to be such a beautiful place some day. Epic bike ride. I bet that staging of your camera to ride past and then go fetch to relocate again was double the work of just riding it without your videoing work. I can't wait to return to your Three Acres again.
Careful that u have inadvertently created water fall and pond around your home. But, great to see progress and your vision and passion coming to life. All power to you.
The camera is not really showing the angles and natural run offs. I will try get that into a video soon. They look good - there is a small risk of pooling in two or three small areas but there is nothing I can do about that in the short term as I am out of time to stay.
Terracing is very nice. You may need a french drain! But you will find someone to help you. Beautiful piece of land. Exciting.
I manage to get in a temporary fix while there on this trip. I hope that gets me to spring without too much remedial work. French drains will go in asap.
massive space it really opens up the view but looking at all that soil and I really worry about mud and drainage. Hopefully you've got plans for that?
I manage to get in a temporary fix while there on this trip. I hope that gets me to spring without to much remedial work. French drains will go in asap.
Finally, you're back! 😊
That ride though. 😘👌
Man, everything‘s looking good. I follow your channel good stuff. As for what to do with that back half of the house man I’m concerned about the flow of water directly to your house so I agree with everybody terrace and drainage to make sure that water doesn’t flow right to your house which it looks like it’s gonna. As for the front of the house you can create access front front parking through the bushes and trees to the flat area and have that be your parking lot instead of right in front of the house. Good luck!
The camera is not really showing the angles and natural run offs. I will try get that into a video soon. They look good - there is a small risk of pooling in two or three small areas but there is nothing I can do about that in the short term as I am out of time to stay.
Richard , you are living the life. The house will be wonderfully. Consider directing the water away from your house- drainit away!!! Best regards from Sweden
Wonderful landscape feature. I might suggest a cover grass before the winter and spring rains. Absent that weeds could take over and then it's a battle against blight as you can appreciate. That and a proper ground cover prevents erosion.
It will be very entertaining to watch this side of the project take form. Good luck, there are no wrongs here.
I manage to get in a temporary fix while there on this trip. I hope that gets me to spring without too much remedial work. French drains will go in asap.
Love the earth works!!
I did the same to my property in Australia, and it's a typical bloke thing wherever you live.
Grab a coffee and stand on it, sit on it, walk over it, marvel at it.
Was doing this for days.
Reckon I'll do the same on your property.
Been watching your channel since the start. For a few years now, since lockdown, I guess I've just been looking for something more in life but something that brings me peace and joy. I've been looking at the typical Sicily route for a few years, but since your channel started, I've added Marche to that list. It's not something I can do in the near future but it's what I'm now working towards. Just having that, gives me more motivation to ensure it happens. Thanks for helping me find that. Put me down for a bottle of the old olive oil 😁
Hi @chadberserk1050 . That plan sounds great - I hope it all comes off for you. The journey of this, although very challenging, is rewarding. Dive in. Good luck!
That looks like great riding country. I haven't ridden in Marche, but last month I did some climbs that have been in the Giro in Abruzzo and Veneto - also rode to San Marino. We're vaguely thinking of buying a place in Italy and proximity to good cycling is important!
looks like they have done a good job Richard, I like it.