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| Frosty morn in Michaelchurch Escley |
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| Holt Farm - winter view |
I am very conscious that the previous blog was written on one of the few sunny days we had this last summer.
The practical work on the Higher Level Stewardship Scheme progressed well until I had a couple of months off work with a back problem.
Now we have completed the fencing and gate hanging at Holt Farm and all the newly planted apple trees in the small orchards are thriving. The land has been water logged much of the time so we used a tracked digger to assist with the fencing work. This was an invaluable machine as it minimised damage to the pasture and kept us in a safe working environment.
Last year I spent a lot of time watering newly planted hedges and apple trees but this year that has certainly not been a problem.
Our field of wheat was combined in September,and we managed to harvest the grain without needing to dry it. The yield was much below our normal expectations.
Potatoes were finally lifted in November. Conditions were difficult and because the soil had been cold and wet for the whole growing season the tonnage was well down.
On a positive note we were able to grow lots of grass, so the grazing animals have been well fed and the stocks of hay are good too.
This morning I have been up to Holt Farm where an oil fired boiler needed some urgent repairs. Although it was raining there was a lot of sheet ice under the water running off the roads. Driving conditions were treacherous and walking around was a dangerous activity.
Repairs were completed efficiently and now the rain is melting the ice layer away so travelling will be easier for the guests coming in to the cottages this evening. We wish you all a very happy and relaxed Christmas and New Year.
