From bright gold to deep burgundy, the living lab orchard is giving us plenty to admire.
The reds are almost unreal this year. One of our young apple trees at the living lab has turned a mix of deep burgundy, scarlet, orange and yellow, with nearly every leaf doing something a little different. We’ve spent the last two years looking after these trees, and this autumn display is something else.
The young apple trees in our living lab have been growing steadily, putting down roots and settling into their new surroundings. There’s still some waiting ahead before we get to pick our first apples, but that’s part of the fun. Growing an orchard takes patience, a little experimentation and plenty of attention along the way. For now, the autumn foliage is a pretty good reward in its own right.
Next spring, these trees will be transplanted into the expanded living lab and community garden at the Dyment Recreation Hall and Park. Melgund Recreation, Arts and Culture and the Local Services Board of Melgund are working together, along with our land-based summer program to develop an expanded, shared community space, bringing food production, gardening and community life into closer reach.
Food security and local food systems have been important parts of our land-based programming for a long time. Community gardens and small-scale food production offer practical ways to build local capacity, share knowledge and strengthen connections to the places where we live. They also create opportunities for people to get their hands dirty, try something new and see what can grow with a bit of care.
An orchard might look quiet at this time of year, but there is plenty happening. The trees are adapting, growing and preparing for another season. Every year brings something different, from fresh spring growth to summer greenery and, eventually, the first harvest. We’re building towards that future one season at a time.
For now, we’re happy to enjoy the show. Those reds, oranges and yellows are a reminder that growing something worthwhile doesn’t happen overnight. Sometimes, the best part is getting to watch it happen.
