There’s more to orchards than fruit growing. They are a vital habitat for some creatures, and as many ancient orchards have been uprooted and destroyed in recent years, the diversity of species died along with them. Some of the orchards on Haye Farm date back over 100 years, making them particularly important as they continue to provide a rich and stable habitat for all sorts of species. Planting has also continued over the years, increasing traditional varieties of apple, plum, pear and cherry. As trees age and decay they are left to increase the biodiversity of insect life further. There are no insecticides used on the farm, Stuart knows that creating a healthy diverse environment is key to good pollination and natural pest management.
There are over 80 varieties of standard fruit trees at the farm. Many are local varieties, such as Worcester Pearmain, Green Purnell, Tupstones, King Coffee, Pitmaston Pineapple, Lord Hindlip, William Crump and of course the historical Worcester Black Pear.
You can buy fruit direct from the farm, contact us for the best times as seasonal variations occur.
The cherry orchards also contain a large number of ant hills. These unusual creations are many years old, and also provide habitats for different insects and fungi, and food for birds. In Bushy and Richmond Parks these special environments are protected (read more here) you can see a hidden swathe of them right in the heart of Haye Farm.
