We have recently planted a community orchard at Elmsfield Paddock, Worcester Road, Chipping Norton. This land is part of Chippy Common and has been leased to us for 10 years by the Field Reeves. Transition Chipping Norton obtained a grant for the trees and they have advised us on planting.
We work there as part of our Wednesday morning programme. As well as tending the trees and keeping them free of weeds, we have planted an ’edible’ hedge, saplings provided by the Woodland Trust, consisting of hazel, crab apple and other bushes that can be used for jam etc. The trees include one mulberry, one medlar, one quince, and of course pears, plums and apples. A few have already produced fruit – which anyone is free to pick!