The Horfield Organic Community Orchard (HOCO) calendar is shaped by three special public events. June is the month of midsummer, when days are longest and the sun is at its peak. Our summer open day feels like a calm oasis during this high energy season. The orchard is full of life – abuzz with insects and the eager creatures that feed on them. Millions of leaves are turning sunshine into sugars and cooling the air as they breathe. Networks of mycelium snap, crackle and pop below ground. There is something soothing about sitting under the shade of a tree, or laying on the grass and tuning into communities of life on the ground.
All are welcome to slow down, explore the life, and enjoy the lush beauty of our Summer Orchard Open Day on Sunday 14 June. We are delighted to be part of the Bristol Festival of Nature community-led programme. Drop in for some Art in the Orchard – please bring your own art making materials. Be inspired by our Bee Active, Bee Fruitful! community pollinator project plantings, and find out more about the Ecology of Fruit Trees. Sign up in advance for the popular Summer Fruit Tree Care taster session (see the website for details). Refresh yourself with homemade cake and fruity cordials. Plants and produce for sale – please bring cash!
Summer Orchard Open Day – Sunday 14 June, 2pm – 5pm
To find the orchard (nearest postcode BS7 8JP) – Walk down the lane beside 22 Kings Drive (between Bishop Road & Kellaway Avenue), turn left and it’s the first gate on the right. OR Take the lane beside 134 Longmead Avenue (BS7 8QQ) until you come to the last gate on the left.
More information: https://community-orchard.org.uk/
Words by Shannon Smith aka The Apple Tree Lady
Photo by Jamie Carstairs