To celebrate Orchard Blossom Day on April 26th, Irish Seed Savers and Ruth Wilson, Farmland Pollinator Officer, National Biodiversity Data Centre, launched The How-to-Guide: Traditional Orchards and Fruit Trees for Pollinators on the Farm.

The guide, developed by Irish Seed Savers and the National Biodiversity Data Centre All Ireland Pollinator Plan, was created to provide information on how to create and manage traditional orchards and fruit trees for pollinators on the farm, garden or other areas of land. It provides information on how to choose the right planting site, variety, and fruit tree type, plus tips on how to encourage pollinators to your orchard, what pollinators you can expect to see in your orchard and which natural predators to encourage, as they can help prevent damage to the crop, by managing pests.

Elaine Bradley, Irish Seed Savers Executive Director says;

“This comprehensive resource equips farmers, gardeners, and landowners with the knowledge and tools to create vibrant habitats that support pollinators. From selecting the perfect site and tree varieties to fostering a welcoming environment for pollinators and beneficial predators, this guide is a roadmap to sustainable agriculture and biodiversity conservation.”

Orchard Blossom Day is the ideal date in the calendar for the How to Guide Launch as we celebrate the flowering meadows, delicacies, cultural heritage and the diversity of apples across Europe.

Download your free copy of the How to Guide for Pollinators here.

Listen to Pat Flynn, Clare FM interview Ruth Wilson on ‘Ours to Protect’ podcast series to learn more.