A Brief Update

April 2021 is proving to be quite chilly, let alone lacking in precipitation. Regular sharp frosts have been a concern. Lack of rainfall can be accepted for now as soil moisture not so far down is holding well – in the fruit tree rooting zone.

The good news, at the moment, is that the apple trees are not blooming anywhere on the orchard – yet. Some ‘pink buds’ are now showing on odd trees. Unusually, apple blossom looks to be expected no earlier than our conventional average , possibly a day or two later. This is in marked contrast to some recent Aprils’ when much of the apple blossom has been through its peak by the end of the month.

There is no room for complacency, especially for the next four weeks. It is sobering to read of severe frosts in the fruit growing areas of Italy, France and Germany causing much damage last week to blossoms and fruits.

Conventional average full bloom date for Cox at Crapes is 5th May with Sturmer Pippin about a week before (looking unlikely this morning)

22nd April 2021.