An apple a day...

The garden cries out for definition and structure.  Until the main ground works begin in September, all I can do is play around the edges and do what I can.  To at least create the sense of structure with what we have and the promise of what will be.

This applies specifically to the new fruit garden and orchard.  This area will be largely unaffected by the bulk of the landscaping and we have already allowed the grass to grow long cutting paths through.  It already has a certain sense of place.  But by adding some fruit trees this effect will be greatly enhanced.

So, this weekend we purchased two apple trees and a crab.  I confess that I was a little worried that apples would do well on our very alkaline soil but the local nursery who are quite reputable and respected say that they are able to grow apples on their fruit nursery with no ill effects.  So, let’s give it a go.

The varieties I purchased and planted were:

Royal Gala (MM106) – Originates from New Zealand.  Cross breed developed Cox's Orange Pippin and Golden Delicious

Discovery (MM106) – Dessert Apple.  Early season flowering. Scarlet and juicy fruit in August. 

Crab Apple (Malus hupehensis) – Small tree with ascending branches.  Abundant fragrant soft pink flowers opening white in May and June followed by small deep red fruits.

I ensured I dug a good planting hole (I tend to make these square based on latest advice) and filled it with good thick organic matter.  I then removed the fruits, teased out the roots, stuck in a stake, filled the hole, watered thoroughly and mulched well.  I then uttered the words advised by Alan Titchmarsh...”Grow you bugger, grow!”