The term orchard refers to a plantation of trees designed to produce crops of fruits and nuts. As they are often in place for 15 years or more, careful planning pre-planting will give the best results. The most commonly grown fruits are apples, plums and pears; unusual fruits include medlars, mulberries, and quince. Nut trees are also grown in orchards, but other fruit trees such as cherries, apricots and peaches are best grown under protection.
Sales and marketing are prime considerations as supermarkets and green grocers are well supplied by large-scale orchards and imports at very low prices. Local markets and online sales can be good options. Orchards also have potential for farm tourism, community schemes, education and other non-production-based projects. An orchard can also contribute to long-term carbon sequestration and significantly add to wildlife habitat.
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