Longer Articles | Orchard Notes

Identifying a Mystery Apple Tree on Plot #79

In which I apply a three-step apple i.d. process to see if I can find a match for these not-as-labelled apples.

Wondering how to i.d. a mystery apple or pear variety? Here’s a guide to: doing it yourself, asking an expert, and DNA testing.

With harvest season starting, here’s a reminder of how to pick apples and pears without doing undue damage in the process.

In which I have a go at re-creating a historical orchard recipe for the first time… with rather delicious results.

Here’s a great way to make something warm, spicy and delicious out of all your under-ripe windfall apples.

The first apples of 2021 are ready for picking and in the Plot #79 orchard, that means it’s time for ‘Beauty of Bath’

With apple fruitlets a little on the small size, it was time to re-thin the pot-grown apple trees.

The fourth of this year’s Cotswold orchard visits takes in the orchard in the walled garden at the Museum in the Park in Stroud.

Excess apple loads can cause serious problems at this time of year; a leaning tree is one of the easier ones to remedy.

This in-depth study of ‘warden’ cooking pears tells the fascinating story of a historical orchard staple.