For the past 15 years we have been the custodian of
a smallholding of approx 3.15 hectares (7.8 acres) that is near the county borders of Warwickshire and Northamptonshire, the leafy shires of the UK.
The holding has always been put down to pasture, however the Ridge and Furrow landscaping indicates a great deal of mediaeval cultivation.
The holding is on the north facing side of an undulating escapement that is underlain by Lias clay, that overlooks a wide shallow valley. We have a full 180 deg panoramic view with a horizon of 5 miles. The production of good crop of top fruit is going to be very limited, and is going to be a struggle. This is not going to be an excuse for not giving any species or variety a go. It will be a natural selection of the hardiest.
When the winter sets in, any sunlight is in short supply. So the winters can be long, before any spring thaw. Equally when the summer heat gets going the surface layer of the soil becomes like concrete.
Previously we have focused mainly on intensive haymaking and on the breeding of Wiltshire Horn sheep, a rare breed. However due to a recent Foot and Mouth diease outbreak and the downturn in viable sheep production etc, an alternative was sought.
The soil analysis (Jan 1998) was pH 6.2, Phosphate index 3 and Potash index 2. The Ph indicates that the soil is slightly acidic, with a Ph of 7 being neutral.
Due to the holding
being located within a nitrate vunerable area, this can limit the use of any fertilzers. Due to rain run off sending water and all the chemicals into the streams.
This
is not a bad thing from the water purity and wild plant point of view, and is in line with my general aims. |
To maintain a working
eco-friendly environment, whereby conservation and not profit is the primary aim of the
holding. Maintain a mimalistic approach to machinery, with a focus on hands on.
As such allowing access to invited interested parties for educational purposes.
To promote good woodland management and to maintain their ecological, landscape and
cultural value and support sustainable timber, and to promote and support rural woodland crafts and skills.
Withdraw from the use of of chemicals, as fertilizers, pesticides and herbicides, and encourage native flora and forna, but to actively control grey squirrel and rabbit damage.
To actively seek and source alternative species not normally seen in the UK from around the world, and to encourage the growing of them.To actively exchange (where possible) scion wood, seeds and cuttings etc throughout the world. |
