Tree crops Field trip - Sustainable garden and orchard and Fingerlime and Yuzu orchard in Levin

About this event

Visit 1: 10am: Brian and Nicky Fullick: Sustainable garden and orchard.

Address: Levin (Address will be sent to registered attendees)

This property is a must see for Tree Croppers. It was one of the field trips for the National Conference held in Otaki, March 2023 and highly regarded. What Brian and Nicky have achieved in 14 years on what was bare land, apart from native trees/flax forming a wind break, is mind boggling. While there is an orchard area, there are many other fruit and nut trees scattered throughout the garden. In the orchard area, some of these are espaliered. With a climate and soil which, according to Brian is better than Nelson (Brian worked as an orchardist in Nelson for many years), trees and plants grow extremely well.

With the Papaitonga Scenic Reserve managed by DoC, on two of the boundaries, native birds are constant visitors, grazing on whatever might be in season. Brian is actively involved in trapping predators, both on their property and on the reserve and has noticed
an increase in bird life over the years.

Parking: On the road away from the driveway.

Lunch will be at this location. Tea and coffee will be provided on arrival and over lunchtime.

Bring: Lunch, cup, gumboots and wet weather gear if needed. Also a reminder to bring along any plants or excess produce you are happy to donate to our sales table. This goes towards branch activities.

1.30pm 

Visit 2: (1.30pm): Alan Jamieson: Fingerlimes and Yuzu

Address: Levin (Address will be sent to registered attendees)

Alan took over this property two year’s ago. Both the fingerlimes and yuzus were put in by Neville Chun 10 year’s ago. Last year saw very large crops of yuzus with breweries having the greatest interest, processing them while green. Ripe ones are good as zest for cooking.

While our focus will be on these two crops, Alan also has 250 chestnut trees, pears on quince rootstock that also fruit, figs, blackcurrants and raspberries. Sheep and highland cattle graze and in the past, sheep have been allowed into the orchard.

Parking: Enter the driveway, past the house, and you will be directed where to park.

Note: Toilets are not available at either locations. There are public toilets in Levin and Otaki (exit the express way at Otaki). 

Our members include vulnerable people, please help protect their wellbeing. If you are unwell, please stay home and cancel your ticket.  Ticket price (if applicable) will be refunded if you are unwell.

This event will be held, rain or shine.