Orchard Network

Traditional orchards that have escaped agricultural 'improvement' are very important within the historic landscape and may support a range of wildlife. To retain their value, the trees and grass sward in traditional orchards require regular management.

Orchard assessment

Before an orchard is restored it should be assessed and, if necessary, a management plan written. The assessment should record the condition of the trees and any other features present and will, together with the management plan, allow the management objectives to be set. In most traditional orchards these objectives will be fruit production and the preservation of trees for their cultural, historical, landscape and wildlife benefits. The fruit varieties present should be identified, particularly if they are thought to be rare.

Assessment of individual tree condition

Consider the health of each tree, recording the amount of dead and decaying wood, new growth and signs of disease, along with the trees' overall size and shape. Old trees are very important for landscape and wildlife and should be preserved for as long as possible.

Causes of poor condition

There are a number of factors that can contribute to the poor health of a tree. These include pests and disease, unsuitable soil conditions, poor nutrition, stock damage, shading and competition, and over- or under-pruning. Often a tree's poor condition may be for several reasons, or caused by a combination of factors. It may be an ongoing problem, or the result of something that happened several years previously. This means it is often difficult to identify the cause of the problem straight away.

Dead and decaying wood

These are not necessarily signs of poor health. Dieback and decay are natural processes that may actually prolong the tree's lifespan and create valuable wildlife habitat. Even dead trees are important for wildlife and should be retained wherever possible.

Restorative pruning

Restorative pruning can help maintain a balanced shape reducing the chances of windthrow. It can also rejuvenate a tree by letting in light and stimulating new growth. Remove diseased wood first, then poorly placed branches. It is better to make a few large cuts than lots of smaller ones. Remove any suckers. Spread the work over several years, to reduce stress on the tree and allow time to assess its response. Don’t remove more than one-third of the woody growth in the crown of the tree in one year.

Downloads

Restoration PDF - download the full guide