Iona Orchard Volunteer Workday – Saturday 2 April, 11am-2pm

Everyone is welcome to a morning of trimming, pruning, planting and maintenance.  Meet by the community orchard in the south of the Park, at the r/o Bourneville Road, SE6. Equipment will be provided, but come wearing sturdy footwear.

Orchard news

The apple and pear trees in the Ladywell Fields orchard have received their springtime pruning and are now better prepared than ever for vigorous growth and bountiful harvest.  Thanks to all the volunteers who helped on the day.

Orchard Day, 27th Feb 11am-1pm

We will continue our orchard maintenance by pruning the trees on 27th Feburary, 11am-1pm, weather permitting.  
The community orchard is located in the south field, right beside the Bournville Road entrance (SE6) and the children's playground. 
Everyone is welcome.  Some tools are provided but if you happen to have your own gardening gloves and secateurs, please do bring them along.

Ladywell Fields Tree Walk: Part 2

We continue our series from part 1, introducing the twenty most interesting trees in Ladywell Fields. 

As you reach the footbridge at the southern perimeter of the hospital grounds, cross to admire the trees on the eastern bank. Downstream is a Mimosa (4), with tiny fern-like leaves, although it is currently somewhat obscured by ivy. It originates from Australia and probably likes this sheltered position. 

Upstream is a fine row of Grey Poplars (5) growing along the river bank. Because they are growing so close together they have become very tall and bend easily in the wind. They have beautiful silvery grey bark.

Continue from the bridge to the playground. Standing in the playground is what used to be the tallest tree in the park, a fine female Black Poplar (6), probably a hybrid. In the summer of 2015 she was given a radical pollarding after a branch dropped on the playground. She should recover from this in a few years and resume her annual snow of seeds each June, covering the playground and creating a magical effect for children.

This content is based on the observations of an enthusiastic amateur. Any corrections and further suggestions will be gratefully received.

Next Ladywell Fields User Group Meeetings

Our next meetings will be held on Wednedays 23rd March and 22nd June, as usual upstairs in the Art Gallery behind the Ladywell Tavern from 7.30pm.
Everyone welcome.