An orchid has been spotted growing in the orchard. It may be a Common Spotted Orchard and we will update this post when this has been confirmed. Another example of the diverse wild life flourishing in the Orchard.
Update! This is a Common Spotted Orchard and we found another one when looking for the first orchid!
Two of our Orchard members set an early alarm so they could watch the Summer Solstice from the Orchard. Standing in front of the Walnut tree was the ideal place to watch the sunrise.
Several years ago we planted a walnut tree. This year there is a hint that we might have our first walnuts in the Autumn. We also have a special oak tree growing by the entrance to the Orchard. In 2012 trees were planted all around the UK as a way of celebrating the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee. We received an oak tree which is now thriving. The oak tree is situated to the left of the entrance gate.
After a wonderful display of blossom during May there are now lots of apples forming on the trees around the Orchard. Hopefully it will be a good harvest in the Autumn.
In March members of the Orchard and Allotments joined a willow weaving workshop and produced willow pyramids. Some of them are now in use around the allotments supporting beans, peas and flowers.
The hard working volunteers who look after the Community Orchard have finally finished renovating the raspberry bed. It looks amazing and no doubt will soon be producing lots of lovely raspberries.
Four weeks of rain, sun and some dedicated mowing has created a beautiful wild flower meadow maze in the central square in the Orchard. If you want to visit the maze, the Orchard is open from dawn to dusk every day. Everyone is welcome.
Last year we left a large part of the central square un-mowed. Nature created a beautiful wild flower meadow.
This year we have gone one step further. One of our orchard members has designed a wild meadow maze for our enjoyment and puzzlement! A few weeks ago the maze was measured out and mowed. Two weeks on and the design is now showing. Watch this space for updates about it’s progress.
On Friday evening, 10th May, many of us were outside late in the evening watching for a rare glimpse of the Aurora. One of our orchard members was able to capture this image from the orchard.
Our fruit trees are starting to blossom. Soon the orchard will be a sea of pink and white blossoms and well worth a visit.
Lanchester Community Orchard 