‘A mass of colour blooms in the Orchard despite the total lack of rain. All the stripeys are enjoying the ragwort (that’s Cinnabar moth caterpillars) and the place is thriving. See the abundance of broad-leaf everlasting peas, large ox-eye daisies and field scabious in the different sections. What a wonderland it is.’ Kirsty Sloman, Racehill Community Orchard volunteer leader.
According to Paul Gorringe, Countryside Ranger, ‘Robin’s Pincushion’ is caused by ‘a species of gall wasp (Diplolepis rosae) that lays its eggs on buds or leaves in summer and the ensuing maggots secrete chemicals which ‘force’ the plant to produce the woody, red-haired galls instead of shoots and leaves. The grubs are fully grown inside by autumn but usually stay in the gall until the following year when they dig their way out! Absolute magic.’
Events coming up at Racehill Orchard:
-:- Sussex apples workshop, Sunday 22 July (starts at Stanmer Park)
-:- Summer wildflower walk, Sunday 29 July