The fruit trees are producing in unprecedented abundance this year. 
This plum tree for example, has changed its shape, to become pendulous with the weight of its fruit. Branches that reached outwards in spring are now being supported with lengths of 3 x 2 timber to keep the fruit off the ground.
The trees have been nourished with a rich compost at their roots, from a mixture of hen-house sweepings and garden / household waste. The presence of bees from our hives has made a huge improvement on pollination this spring. 
One could be forgiven for mistaking the bunch of plums on the right for grapes.
It is going to be such a tangle to cover these trees with strawberry netting! We encourage birds in the garden at most times of the year – but please leave our soft fruit for us!!
There will be a busy day of jam-making very shortly.
Equally, the apple trees are producing like never before… unfortunately some of the smaller branches are beginning to snap with the weight of the fruit.
This is such a wonderful time of the year. It’s no wonder we celebrate harvest.
There will be lots of apple jellies and jams, I hope we’ve collected enough glass jars… 
