The focus of this project was to re-instate an historic orchard with traditional heritage fruit varieties.
The project will also lay some Devon hedge banks. A roadside hedge which will open up views across the Coly Valley for road users, an orchard side hedge. This traditional management will conserve these landscape features for years to come. Previously laid hedges had dormice boxes placed within it and owl boxes placed in mature trees. The hedge pictured here will spring back to life with new vigour.
Devon has lost 90% of its orchards since the second world war so their reinstatement with fruit varieties such as Tom Putt, Pig’s Snout and Devonshire Quarrendine apples, Black Mazzard Cherry, Plymouth Pear, Dittisham (Ditsum) Plum; not only enhances the landscape but also preserves these varieties into the future. Orchards will also act as a source of nectar for pollinators and fruit for wildlife.
There is a very nice historical link with one of these varieties. Part of this farm was once owned by the The Reverend Thomas Putt who resided at Combe House, Gittisham. He perfected a very popular, general-purpose apple nicknamed the “cottage apple” as it was “the rosy apple that grew in every garden and orchard”.
This image shows the new orchard planted.
What FiPL outcomes were achieved?
Climate:
- More carbon is stored and/or sequestered.
Nature:
- There is a greater area of wildlife rich habitat.
- There is greater connectivity between habitats.
- Existing habitat is better managed.
- There is an increase in biodiversity.
Place:
- The quality and character of the landscape is reinforced or enhanced.
- Historic structures and features are conserved, enhanced, or interpreted more effectively