February Upate

In addition to a tree’s obvious enemies, mice, rabbits, deer and the usual host of insects and diseases inflicting damage above ground, a silent , insidious threat in the form of water  threatens beneath. The tree that we can see is sustained by its root system. Surprising to some, the tiny root hairs  harness the nutrients within the soil around them, and, guess what – they need oxygen to function.

Our earthworms which have enjoyed the mild winter and been working away at the fallen leaves, and the remains of last years chopped up pruning debris, have not only introduced organic bulk around the root systems but, particularly importantly,created a ventilation system through their tiny holes.

Since the 1st December 2013 we have recorded just over 230mm.Most of our land drains were laid during Victorian times. Deeply laid and positioned to follow the line of our gentle south facing slope  just below shallow gravel seams. One, constructed with a flat tile along the base with a pipe of a horse shoe profile above it, is probably the oldest. The important thing is that they are running with force. However, it takes time for water to filter through the soil to the drain catchment. Recent heavy rains have caused some accumulation on the surface and this is the damaging situation as the air within those worm tunnels is forced out and fills with water thereby suffocating the root hairs, just as the buds on top are preparing to swell before breaking in March. Some strategic gulleys have been cut to lead water to nearby ditches. The larger, thick roots are responsible for anchoring the tree firmly, though waterlogged soil can lead to them losing their grip and the tree ‘rocking’ in the wind , creating a funnel around the trunk to attract and harbour water which in time can encourage canker.

In summary some drying weather desperately needed, not only for next seasons apples but so that our vegetable range can be started off. Available still Spring Greens, Apple Juice and  apples (though the very best are all gone now).

All eyes now for some fresh worm casts (a sign of optimism).