Over a couple of sessions we took on the big job of cutting our way through the undergrowth. The aim of this is to find the boundary line at the very bottom of the garden and also to create more space so that more trees can be planted in their orchard. In the spring we planted a variety of other trees there, some fruiting and others ornamental, but all with and element that would be sustaining for wildlife.
We cut a pathway first of all down the side through the neighouring garden, finally being able to approach the main section from behind.
A lot of rubble, rubbish, and old wood were found within the mass vegetation. All green waste is being kept on site, with as little outputs as possible. The rotting wood, timber posts, branches and old tree trunks were piled up to make a habitat for a variety of insects and other creatures. The rubble and old paving we stacked up; with some of it to be used for stepping stones and for other usage in the garden.
An old chicken coop was also within the undergrowth so we spent a fair bit of time cutting away the wires. It was a very satisfying task and on such a glorious summer’s day.
Whilst Stefan cut away at the vegetation, slightly further up the garden, at the entrance to the orchard, Flo was busy digging over the soil around a recently planted fig tree. The grass is so vigorous and grows so rapidly that it was swamping the fig as well as a climber and some other small shrubs.
Flo really worked over the area, digging out a lot of bindweed roots, and fully prepared the area. We used some of the stone that had been found around the garden to use as a border edge.
Now the salvias and other plants in this sweet little border have a bit more chance of survival. They should do well here in full sun next to this lovely stone wall.
We also found a few sheets of pretty decent corrugated metal, which we put neatly to one side, as we’re sure they will be utilised somewhere in this exciting garden design.
Unfortunately the majority of this tree is dead, and huge limbs were just pulling or falling away by themselves. A tree surgeon will be coming in after us to safely take this down. They may well leave the stump as a wildlife habitat, with other trees planted to grow around it.
It was amazing to look across the garden after our time there during that session. A huge expanse of the garden has now opened up, filled with possibilities. A lot more work needs to be done on this area, but is exciting to see it changing shape, knowing that more trees will be planted, and possibly a large pond may be dug.
Check back in with us soon to see how this project is going…
