Orchards - Andrew Lear, Margaret Lear

How to create and manage an orchard of any size, without costing the Earth. Whether you are a beginner or a practised orchardist, this book contains everything you need to know about how, when and why practical tasks should be carried out to establish a productive orchard, vibrant with wildlife. Whereas traditional orcharding has often focussed solely on productivity, the authors encourage a more sustainable approach, with consideration to wider habitats and the changing climate. Coverage includes: Choosing the best sites and fruit varieties, The importance of pollinators, predators and biodiversity, All about restricted forms – espaliers, stepovers, cordons and fans, Getting pruning right – and at the right time, Grafting explained, Orchard abundance – how not to be overwhelmed at harvest time, Managing fruit tree pests and diseases without toxic chemicals, Orchard lore and traditions