Apple Blossom Time!

It seems many Springs have passed since the blossom period has actually occurred close to the long accepted ‘average’ timing for Crapes. Just now the blossom over all our varieties is at various stages, coinciding with the pollinator varieties like Worcester Pearmain and Discovery, well. Individual varieties actually blooming in the recognised sequence, for once! The frosty start to April appears not to have caused pre blossom damage to apples, though the earlier flowering plums may show some evidence later. Temperatures are holding up well, especially during nights and around dawn – this trend looks to be continuing towards mid May.

The recipe isn’t complete, however, without appreciable rainfall here as a matter of urgency. April has been very dry.

Derby Day, circa 6th June, is a long recognised date by apple growers for the initial gauging of crop prospects.