First tasks of 2021

We are back with a bunch of volunteers keen to start the first jobs for the WoodChips in 2021.

Split into teams in line with C19 guidelines, one felled dying ash trees near a busy woodland path, while the other planted the remaining Crab Apple saplings  from last year's new tree stock, kindly sponsored by the Downlands Trust. Eight trees were planted and protected in the large and small orchards in Banstead Wood. In addition, supporting props were added to two of the older trees that had developed a sideways list. The naturally forked props were recycled from Hazel coppiced last year.
More dead and dying Ash was cleared in the woods on the next task day, despite friendly interruptions from families out for a stroll!
Graham Kenward

Fruit tree propped by Hazel.

Brief encounter: Andy sets out the tasks.

Cutting a felled Ash into manageable chunks.

Three of the new Crab Apples planted in the Banstead Wood orchard.