Plant  a  Tree

Why?

The wood that we are using comes from trees that were planted many years ago in Cornwall and Devon. We are privileged to use it and to create the composters. It does not take long to cut down a tree but it takes a long time to grow one.

So we are simply trying to  put back more than we have taken. This is the reason to plant a tree for each hive sold. In 40 - 50 years time there will be a resource that future generations can use. It is a long term concept for which future generations will reap the benefits

Where?

The trees are planted on our small farm of 40 acres.  The farm is situated on the Devon Cornwall border on the top of a hill. We are 20 miles from the sea but we receive a plentiful supply of rain and sometimes too much wind. The land is heavy clay which combined with the climate means that growing of grass for sheep and cattle is the main crop.  Our land is marginal and on maps of the 19th century is shown as open heath land.  But trees do grow well here and it is a sensible use of the land.

Which?

The trees that we are planting will be a mixture of Western Red Cedar (thuja plicata), Douglas fir(Pseudotsuga mensiesii) and Larch (Larix decidua).

How?

The trees are grown from saplings that we we get from Perrie Hale Nursery, Honiton, Devon.

When?

The saplings are initially planted into our tree nursery in the winter (November to March) and in the following year planted in their final location.