We started 2024 by planting three new apples trees in the orchard. They are heritage varieties--Rosemary Russet, James Grieve and Ellison's Orange--all on MM106 rootstock, which is semi vigorous and means they will match the height of the other trees in time. They replace the Avalon plum trees which sadly, we lost as a result of the 2022 summer drought.
Rosemary Russet is a late dessert apple, first recorded in 1831 in Middlesex. The fruits are juicy with an excellent sharp but sweet flavour. Ready to pick early to mid October.
James Grieve is a dual use apple from Edinburgh which was first recorded in 1893. Its apples are very sharp early in the season but mellow without losing flavour by December. Pick early to mid September.
Ellison's Orange is a dessert apple from Lincolnshire which came from a Cox cross. It was first recorded in 1904 and used to be commercially available. It has a distinctive flavour, developing an aniseed taste by the end of October. Pick mid- Late September.
If you would like to become involved in caring for the orchard please email ladywellfields@yahoo.co.uk.