If we had tried to maximize their fruitfulness we would now be engaged in a huge and I think frustrating struggle. Every time we looked at them we would sigh and think of all we needed to be doing to fix them up. Which probably wouldn't be successful, anyway. But instead we just enjoy what they offer us, as is, as they say. And we are not alone. They are home to all kinds of insects, and the downy woodpeckers love them. The robins build nests in their gnarled branches and the sheep are in ecstasy as they scratch themselves against the rough old bark. Right now bees and butterflies hum and buzz and flutter happily among the blossoms.
These ancient apple trees give joy to the island's creatures in every season, including us. So I'm glad we didn't focus on the number and condition of the apples they produced. We might have missed seeing how much they provide in so many other ways.
These ancient apple trees give joy to the island's creatures in every season, including us. So I'm glad we didn't focus on the number and condition of the apples they produced. We might have missed seeing how much they provide in so many other ways.
What a wonderful tribute to the old trees - I'm sure they love being appreciated.
ReplyDeleteBy far the most beautifully blooming apple trees are the wild ones in the hedgerows and beside the roads. They are also found in old pastures and now and then you see the uniformly planted and huge old apple trees over run with spruce groves where there has been an old farmhouse. Serendipity indeed!
ReplyDelete