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

Autorentext

Andrew Lear is a professional horticulturist and arborist, with a lifetime career in gardens, landscaping and nurseries behind him. Latterly, he has specialised in the production of fruit trees in his own nursery, as well as running courses and workshops for community groups across Scotland.