In August it’s time for harvesting the alpine grass at the alp meadows at 1,700 meters above sea level and also higher. The arnica blossoms are already faded and the plants have spread their seeds. Now the hard work really starts!
Depending on the steepness of the slopes, you can’t handle the motor mower anymore. It only helps to take the scythe.
A sharp edge is absolutely necessary. Therefore, already after a few cuts the edge is sharpened again.
To harvest with the scythe is a science in itself. The best even compete in a championship…
The most important thing is certainly a sharp edge! The scythe must be maintained in order to make the optimum use and enjoy it for a long time. Dills and broken spikes on the cutting blade are repaired during sharpening.
Peppi learned how to build a scythe from his father. Only very few people understand this traditional craft anymore. Even as a young boy he harvested the hay with his own child scythe.
This summer too, the family helped together again - even the kids were already there with their rakes! The weather was fine and so the hay could be brought in well.
We thank Peppi and his family for the insights into their work with hay in the steep mountain meadows of Fließ!
Interview by Alexandra Jehart and Anna Gritsch. Photos: Family Schlatter, Martin Jehart