As the nights draw in, autumn brings its own rewards, including the ‘mists and mellow fruitfulness’ promised by John Keats. National Apple Day, celebrated on 21st October, is marked by events throughout the month. Established in 1990 by Common Ground, this day highlights the importance of apples and orchards as part of our heritage, and the Muddy Fork apple trees are flourishing in time for the occasion.
One standout this autumn is the Muddy Fork Pilgrim apple tree, planted during the 2020 Mayflower 400 celebrations – many of which were disrupted due to the events of that year. Given Bassetlaw’s strong connections to the Pilgrim Fathers, the very first Pilgrim apple tree was planted at the Scrooby Show in September 2019, shortly before the Muddy Fork planting ceremony.
Some of the apples may be available from the honesty stand, while others could be used for chutney or jam. One of the delights of autumn is preserving the harvest, allowing it to be enjoyed for months to come. While the redcurrants were eaten by birds, Muddy Fork has still had a successful season, with good crops of tomatoes, cucumbers, sweetcorn, peppers, and more.
For more information about Muddy Fork, Retford’s Gardening for Wellbeing charity, visit www.muddyfork.uk. To make a referral, volunteer, or donate, please contact Rose, Muddy Fork’s General Manager, at rose.muddyfork@outlook.com. Visitors are always welcome at the garden, and there may still be produce available from the honesty stand at the garden gate, which has been thriving in recent months.