Twas a rainy day in the orchard, but we got some good work done in between showers.
The primary task was clearing blackberries from a spot for the new grape plants.
A rough preview of what the future line might look like.
And the first grape plant goes in! This Catawba (vitis labrusca), which should do well in our climate, is native to North America and was popular during the time the Piper family settled here.
Equipment and personnel!
Our third annual festival was a great success, with over 220 attendees and over 20 volunteers. The sun peeked through the clouds at times, and the periodic drizzles didn’t dampen our spirits. The festival took place simultaneously at the Environmental Learning Center, the Lower Meadow and the Orchard.
At the ELC we had informative presentations on viticulture, organic pest management, tree pruning and espalier, and apple varieties, old and new. We also had booths featuring Puget Sound Beekeepers Association, City Fruit, pruning, non-toxic pest management, and orchard management, as well as a kids craft area, apple cider pressing, the pie tasting contest, and Tillie’s Cafe, selling baked treats (apple pies featured), hot dogs, coffee and cider.
In the Lower Meadow, people were able to taste orchard apple varieties, operate the mechanical apple press, and enjoy the tunes from our wandering minstrel.
Up at the Orchard, more apple variety tasting took place, and at the end of the festival, Dr. Bob Norton took attendees on a tour, discussing the varieties.
We really want to thank all the volunteers and folks who attended. We encourage you to get involved in our upcoming orchard work parties.
Friends of Pipers Orchard 