The Grounded Orchardist

I conducted an autumn assessment on the trees a week or so ago. Just trying to figure out what’s going on within each tree and come up with a bit of a plan going forward.

Whilst it was only the pears going into dormancy, the apples had the odd curled up yellow leaf on very green trees. So I unfurled a few expecting late aphids.

I was surprised to see lots of different species hibernating in those curled leaves. Most are beneficial to the orchard, though im not fooled, theres an infinite number of aphid eggs overwintering, readying themselves for their attack next year!

I guess the leaves then drop and they continue to hibernate in the leaf litter. A lot of the leaves had spiders in with the other species (very angry ones who clearly didnt appreciate being disturbed…sorry!).
I’ve sadly lost my mini, light up microscope but a closer look would have given more clues.

I found it fascinating and very beneficial. Whether you have one tree or thousands, I would urge any organic grower with fruit trees to get up close and fully learn what is going on in your orchard setup. In every season and seasonal change!