Rejuvenating neglected orchards

Rejuvenation and management of existing fruit trees is urgently needed. According to The National Trust, 60% of England's traditional orchards have disappeared since the 1950s as a result of development pressures, conversion of land to other uses and small-scale producers suffering at the hands of the economics of fruit growing, which have ultimately led to the neglect of orchards. As a result of this orchard decline, many rare varieties of fruit - some unique to their localities - are under threat.

We have partnered with two custodians of neglected orchards in 2010 to help restore the orchards to productivity at Bethlem Royal Hospital and Dorich House, Kingston. 

Check out some pictures of Kingston here, and short films about Bethlem Royal Hospital:

I just thought I’d drop a quick email to say how delighted we are at the change in our old orchard since you helped us to prune it in January. After not flowering for the last 3 years, it’s now in full blossom. It really has been given a whole new lease of life! Please do pass on our thanks to everyone. They were all a brilliant source of knowledge on the day. Lynsey, Dorich House, Kingston

"We could not have tackled our orchard restoration project without the support and guidance of the London Orchard Project, Their involvement made it all happen and their vision and technical expertise turned a difficult challenge into a resounding success. We now have a wonderful rejuvenated old orchard which can serve our community for many years to come" Peter, Bethlem Royal Hospital, Bromley