A Spring of mixed fortunes and change.

Since I took over from my father, here at Crapes, I have witnessed most weather which could have been thrown at us, both decimating extremes and, just as challenging, the marked contrasts not just from week to week but within an individual week itself.

For once we had a decent dose of cold winter temperatures, at the right time, with rainfall keeping the land topped up until mid March. Then the sun broke free which in itself is no bad thing, except that temperatures both day and night climbed. Blossom was much earlier than during the mid 1980s. Incidence of frost was unbelievably rare. Even the insects rose to the occassion. Fruit is there to be seen and hopefully it will grow through the June Drop period as we enter July.

The one part of the growing equation missing is any appreciable rainfall since mid March. It serms to have been replaced by wind which is aggravating the situation – drying everywhere and increasing the transpiration rate of already struggling trees.

Here the second half of July can be the most difficult – the most likely time for apples to be bleached or ‘cooked’ by the sun as moisture levels are often very low.

A challenging season ahead for whatever is being grown.

Now to changes afoot, imminently. I am retiring. Much of the orchard is being taken on by two seperate local families. There will still be apples here. Obviously there will be changes with a much younger generation getting to grips introducing new ideas.

Please note a change in the contact email to crapesfruitfarm@gmail.com for further information.

Thank you for your support through many years.

Andrew