Oliver Stock, a key member of the Future Trees Trust team, has led significant progress over the past year through two Forestry Commission Seed Sourcing Grant projects—Minor Species and Wild Cherry. These initiatives are enhancing the seed supply of improved beech and wild cherry, while also preparing for future improvement programmes for species like hornbeam and wild service.
“The seed sourcing grants presented a great opportunity for us to expand the number of species we work on. I’m very pleased with the steps forward we’ve made in such a short time.”
In just two years, the team has identified 109 beech and 62 hornbeam plus trees. The best of these beech trees have already been climbed and graftwood collected to establish a new seed orchard at our research site.
This winter, the team undertook a major effort—travelling across the country from Devon to Cumbria—to collect graftwood from 51 plus trees of beech, cherry, and oak. Two researchers were in the field throughout January, working alongside climbers to gather this valuable material.
Around 500 beech grafts were made, with results expected later this year.
Nearly 1,000 cherry grafts were completed from 114 selections, including 18 new ones.
At Craven Field, a genetically diverse blackthorn seed stand was also planted this winter. This will support seed supply and provide pollen and food for local wildlife.
The photo opposite shows a select seed stand at Bathurst Estate—an excellent example of a well-managed stand with regular seed collections. Widely spaced trees, excellent stem form, and sparse ground flora all contribute to efficient seed harvesting.
“I’m looking forward to continuing this work and hope to report on the planting of full seed orchards next year.”
🌱 This is just one of many exciting updates from our work this year.
Read more in the full Future Trees Trust Annual Report:
