As the leaves begin to fall and we are treated to those rich autumn colours in the park, so we recognise that the trees are entering their dormant phase and it will soon be time when new  trees can be planted. We shall be putting some new apple trees in the orchard this year. They are smaller ones where the fruit can be easily reached and which I hope might be less damaged by picking.

I also wonder whether there are other areas of the park that would benefit from more trees. The Woodland Trust are hoping to plant a million trees across the UK this year and looking for local people to identify suitable sites. I wondered, for example, whether the section running down to the library might be suitable (pictured here)?

It feels slightly empty and sterile at the moment, at least to my way of thinking. Let me know what you think. I also thought about the possibility of trees on Lyde Green Common. I am not sure if that would be welcomed by local people or possible legally, but the question seems worth asking.

There is a debate about this whole process of tree planting. Some say that simply letting trees grow as part of ‘rewilding’ is a better way. We experienced that in the park a few years back, when a whole forest was growing in the wilder side of the park. No one had planted anything. It just happened. The council eventually cut it back on the orders of a government inspector, who thought it would impede the flood protection properties of the park’s streams and ponds.

I am not sure that the section of the park pictured above would rewild easily, or that the process would be welcomed by the public, so tree planting may be the best first proposal.

Also please note that Friends of Emersons Green Park are holding our first AGM this year on October 21st at 7pm in the Jefferies Room of the Village Hall. It will take the form of a Harvest Supper on a bring and share basis. You are most welcome to come.  We will be talking about ideas for the group’s activities in the coming year. Please let us know through the contact form on this website that you plan to attend so we can coordinate food and make sure there is enough space.