07-18-14 Field Note

07-18-14 Field Note

July 18, 2014

Mike McTee's Tree and Shrub Field Note describes the progress of fruit bearing plantings.

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Many shrubs planted in 2010-12 now produce fruit. Our hard work paid off and wildlife can enjoy the fruits of our labor. In this photo, ripening berries fill a golden currant.

Golden currants grow fast and can produce berries within one year of planting.

An exclosure restricts lateral growth but protects currant berries from the mule deer that forage in the Orchard House Draw (below). Rodents and birds can access the berries through the exclosure.

Their bitter taste and toxic pits may deter humans, but wildlife, especially bears, love chokecherries.

Although slow growing, serviceberries planted 2–4 years ago produce fruit.

Hawthorn branches poke and scratch foragers that seek the plant’s berry clusters.

Hawthorn branches poke and scratch foragers that seek the plant’s berry clusters.

Once ripe, we could turn this elderberry fruit into syrup, pie filling, or even ice cream!

Native to Asia, this Nanking Cherry settles its roots in MPG soil.

This Lodi Big Transparent apple semi-dwarf holds the first apple in the Sheep Camp Orchards.

A well-balanced diet cannot be fulfilled with only fruit, so we planted a tasty vegetable – wild asparagus.

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