Learn to Apply Tu B’shvat to Your Own Land

Feb 5

When we first moved to Texas, someone gifted us a small olive tree. We planted it lovingly in a new pot, unaware of its age but eager to watch it grow. Over the years, it became part of our family’s story, a living testament to new beginnings and growing roots. This Tu B’Shvat marks four years since we planted it, and while we may never know its exact age, we cherish the rhythm of counting its years alongside this special day.

The Agricultural History of Tu B’Shvat

Tu B’Shvat falls on the 15th day of the Hebrew month of Shevat. In Biblical times, this date marked the beginning of the agricultural year for trees in Israel. The rainy season would have sufficiently nourished the soil, allowing trees to start drawing nutrients and preparing for new growth. This timing was significant because it determined the age of fruit trees, which directly impacted the tithing laws described in the Torah.

In Leviticus 19:23-25, we read:

"When you enter the land and plant any kind of fruit tree, regard its fruit as forbidden. For three years, you are to consider it forbidden; it must not be eaten. In the fourth year, all its fruit will be holy, an offering of praise to the Lord. But in the fifth year, you may eat its fruit. In this way, your harvest will be increased. I am the Lord your God."

This commandment instructed the Israelites not to eat the fruit of a tree during its first three years. The fruit of the fourth year was to be dedicated to God, and only in the fifth year could they enjoy the harvest freely. Tu B’Shvat served as the “birthday” of trees, helping farmers keep track of these important agricultural timelines.

One way to apply this ancient principle is by counting the years of new trees you have planted on your property using Tu B’Shvat as an annual marker. While it may not be the exact “birthday” of each tree, it offers a consistent rhythm to reflect on growth, both in nature and in our own lives.

For our olive tree, Tu B’Shvat has become a milestone. We might not know how old it was when we planted it, but we know it’s been with us for four years now. This simple practice has deepened our appreciation for the passage of time and the steady growth happening right in our backyard.

Different Fruit Bearing Cycles

Understanding the age of your trees isn’t just a sentimental exercise—it has practical benefits, especially for fruit-bearing trees. Different species have unique growth cycles and fruiting patterns. Here are a few examples:

Olive Trees: Often begin producing fruit after 3-5 years, with yields increasing as the tree matures.
Apple Trees: Typically start bearing fruit around 4-6 years old, depending on the variety and growing conditions.
Fig Trees: Can produce fruit as early as 2 years old, but quality and quantity improve with age.
Citrus Trees: Usually begin fruiting within 2-3 years, with peak production occurring after 5 years.

By tracking the years, you can better anticipate when your trees will bear fruit, adjust care routines, and celebrate the milestones of growth. It also helps in understanding the health and productivity of your trees over time.

How to Count the Age of Your Trees on Tu B’Shvat

If you’ve planted trees on your property recently, or are about to this year, here’s a simple way to start counting their years:

Choose Tu B’Shvat as Your Marker: Regardless of when you planted the tree recently, use Tu B’Shvat as the annual date to count its age. This aligns with the Biblical rhythm and provides a consistent reminder.
Create a Tree Journal: Keep a dedicated journal to record the planting date, type of tree, and observations each year. Note changes in growth, flowering, and fruiting patterns.
Celebrate Milestones: Just as we celebrate birthdays, take time to acknowledge your tree’s growth each Tu B’Shvat. Reflect on how it has changed and what it has taught you about patience, resilience, and God’s provision.
Involve the Family: Make it a family tradition to walk around your property, observing and documenting the trees. This practice not only teaches children about nature but also instills a sense of stewardship and gratitude for creation.

Final Thoughts

Tu B’Shvat offers a beautiful opportunity to reconnect with ancient rhythms, even in modern life. By counting the years of your trees, you honor both the agricultural heritage of Israel and the timeless lessons nature teaches us about growth, resilience, and faith.

As we mark four years with our olive tree this Tu B’Shvat, I’m reminded of how much life can change and how much remains steadfast. The tree grows slowly, quietly, yet persistently.

May we all find ways to root ourselves deeper, grow stronger, and bear fruit in season.

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