near the creek - in a small glade and beside a spring is a makeshift orchard of sorts. I don't believe that previous generations of farmers planted this as such - by their placement it seems these peach (on the right in full blossom) and loquat (on the left - in front of the river oak) have seeded and set themselves up in the most desirable position around - nice moistness, out of blustery winds, and shaded from the harsh summer westerly sun....
Along the creek are other 'blow ins'.... I've found a quince (once) on the steepest slope beside the creek - on the far side of course.... once I managed to get my fingers on some fruit - by driving the tractor into the creek and climbing out over the engine... at this time of year it's impossible to find the tree again amongst the tangle of overgrowth... but I'll keep my eyes peeled!
just a little further up the creek - where its only stones at the moment, I discovered a network of fig trees - all just now sending out fresh little green leaves (or I'd never notice them! - amongst a most enormous blackberry heap) - what a pleasant little thing to stumble upon. I know I won't gather any fruit - the small birds will be in there first - but it's nice to think that the figs will find an appreciative audience...
