A Fresh Start at Underhill: Levens’ Jubilee Orchard Takes Root

There’s a new green space taking shape in Levens. In April, Roger Mason planted eight apple and two pear trees at Underhill Orchard, marking the start of a community project made possible by grant funding from Westmorland and Furness Council.

The groundwork was done with help from Thackers, who levelled the site and removed sycamore saplings. Bruce Nelson then harrowed the soil, and Roger sowed a low-maintenance grass seed, which Bruce rolled in to help it settle.

Each tree is protected with a rabbit guard and wire fencing — a precaution in case deer make an appearance, even if they’re not regulars in this part of the village.

Freshly planted trees ©Dave Rogerson

Following advice from the South Lakes Orchard Group (SLOG), half the trees have been planted now and the rest, including local damson varieties, will go in this autumn. The long triangular plot made random planting tricky, so the trees are arranged in three offset rows, which will eventually hold 20 in total.

Room has been left by the river for access to install fencing later in the year. A wall or hedge on that boundary will depend on securing additional RPA funding, so the site may look a little unfinished until the grass grows and trees fill out.

To add a splash of colour, Roger has suggested planting snowdrops, daffodils, and crocuses this autumn to brighten things up next spring.

SLOG generously donated the trees — including some rare varieties, and one thought to be extinct until recently rediscovered locally — and have offered more for the next phase.

This orchard is a great example of community effort and thoughtful planning, and a clear demonstration to W&F that the grant funding has been well used.