July 2014

Some long spells of sunshine throughout June, causing a little concern for watering of the less established fruit trees in the orchard. Just enough rain for new growth to flourish quite prolifically (as well as the grass coming on well, but layering slightly in breezes and odd spells of dampness).

For the first time some (fortunately minor) rabbit damage around the graft line of a couple of trees.

The meadowsweet seems a little earlier this year, so brewing of the flowers will have to get going next week.

I managed a trip to the Malvern Spring Garden Show. I bought a Medlar from Mr Darcy's Heritage Fruit Trees, variety 'Royale'
Another recently acquired tree was Malus sieversii - a historically interesting variety considered a progenitor for the modern apple. A more adventurous blog by others here...

Curiously I've had a take down request regarding an inoffensive and neutral / positive blog reference to a local high quality greenhouse manufacturer who was exhibiting at RHS Hampton Court in 2012 and is at most of the major garden shows. Most people will know I am enthusiastic about supporting local business, particularly if there is a good level of quality and service, social responsibility in local employment and skills training and retention.
Unfortunately there was no reason given by http://www.integrityseoexperts.co.uk and I don't think they expected me to wander a mile up the road to the company referenced in the post to discuss the matter, who then contacted them within 30 minutes.
In terms of reputation management and how the internet works, their initial style of approach could be quite damaging if they provoke anybody who has made legitimate negative comments about a client.

 

Moth Mallow

 

Rabbit (or vole) damage