There is a beautiful old apple tree behind our Cottage, next to the side yard, which we estimate has been growing apples for decades. We have much more to learn her but we do know we love her and want to help her grow! Over the years we have cared for the tree is small ways, adding supports to help the trunk carry it’s own weight so it would not topple right over. It is one of many old fruit trees that are speckled around Terra Nova. The history of the land is rich- with trees, plants and people. The memories of them are present today and, as stewards of this place, we feel a responsibility to ensure everything that has life is cared for with respect.
The last few years have been challenging for all, including the landscape, as the pandemic meant less parent volunteeers helping (for a while none) and less City resources to care for all the parks in Richmond. Apple Tree felt this neglect and she became completely entwined with Himalayan Blackberry, struggling to concentrate on her own growth and production.
Our team was concerned about her well-being so we applied for, and received, an Environmental Enhancement Grant from the City of Richmond. This grant allowed us to purchase the specialized equipment to remove the blackberry. Next will be a careful and experienced pruning of the branches in the hopes she can return to full health again.
We were so fortunate to have 3 Nature School families join us as we tackled the blackberry. There are many other areas we will also remove blackberry this year, working together with our TNNS families and Richmond community, to support the health of the foliage in Terra Nova Rural Park.
The Apple Tree covered in blackberry.
Monty & Shantelle get the tools ready.
Pulling- grabbing- cutting!
Eating the sweet blackberries as they were removed, helping a skinned knee feel better.
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