A bit of snow didn't stop 100 saplings from being planted in Berry Hill Park, creating the ninth community orchard in Mansfield District Council's open spaces.
The orchard has been supported by the UK Urban Forest Programme, funded by Trees for Cities and the trees planted include apples, pears, plums, cherries, medlars (quince), hazels and mulberries.
The trees will start fruiting this year but not enough to harvest. A sizable harvest is expected in three to four years. The Friends of Berry Hill Park are aiming to help maintain the trees until they are established and it is hoped that the wider community will also help prune and harvest the trees in the future.
Cllr Andy Burgin, Portfolio Holder for the Environment, said: “Sadly the current Covid restrictions meant we could not involve the Friends of Berry Hill Park and local primary school in planting the trees. But there will be plenty of opportunities in the future for the local community to be involved in the ongoing maintenance of this orchard – as well as the chance to enjoy the fruit and nuts it produces.
“Despite the snowy conditions, our Parks team reported that the ground was actually very soft and perfect for planting. The soil is of an exceptional quality which will ensure the trees have the best chance of producing good quality fruit.
“The easily accessible location of the orchard in the park aims to encourage community participation for all abilities as well as giving the park a biodiversity boost by linking woodland next to the café to acid grasslands near Bloomsbury Gardens and Black Scotch Lane.”
