Hungerhill Fruit Tree Project
The St Anns Allotments, historically known as Hungerhill Gardens, Stonepit Coppice 
Gardens and Gorsey Close Gardens, have a rich and fascinating fruit tree heritage.
A recent survey estimated the number of fruit trees on site to be around 2,000 with most trees pre dating the Second World War and many much older still. Samples were collected in autumn 2009 from a fraction of the older trees which identified 103 varieties of apple and over 30 varieties of pear, many of Victorian origin. We are confident that next season will bring even more discoveries.
To develop this work further we have secured funding from Awards For All and have set up the Hungerhill Fruit Tree Project. The project aims to celebrate this rich heritage by propagating 2,000 apple and pear trees. The varieties chosen are a mixture of the local, heritage and newer varieties recommended for organic growing. A range of rootstocks will produce trees of different sizes, providing trees to suit a range of different situations.
The trees will be grown on site and, once established, will be distributed freely throughout the area to local residents, community groups, schools, parks and other open spaces.
We welcome volunteers and this project provides an exciting opportunity for people wishing to increase their horticultural skills while helping us to learn more about the rich heritage of fruit growing in Nottinghamshire. If you are interested in helping out please contact Marc Richmond at STAA.
For the latest information about the project and news on activities please visit our blog.
