TODAY IN THE ORCHARD

Ancient Baldwin tree on Mount Desert Island

Today I took a drive downeast to Mt. Desert Island (MDI) where I gave a noon-time talk to a group in Bar Harbor, followed by a visit to one of the oldest apple trees on MDI. It is a huge and impressive Baldwin which dates to the mid-19th century.
Laura was on the farm today, weeding trees up in the Finley Lane Orchard and making herb teas to spray on the trees once they ferment: Comfrey, Monarda, Nettles, Chives, Horsetail and Willow.
I also pulled out my books and apple key and identified an apple sent to me from Pennsylvania. It is known locally at the “July Apple.” Although the specimens were marginally representative, I believe the apple is “Early Harvest”. Let the ID season begin.