John and nephew Mike have been working to reconstruct a pergola (or "arbor") here at Struan Farm. It was pulled down recently from our rental property in Auckland, we've actually got two to reuse in the gardens at the new(ish) house. They're made of beautiful hardwood so should last forever or thereabouts.
They've been reconditioned and painted to coordinate with the house. The first one is going up at the entrance to the orchard. Clifford isn't so sure about all this, he was nervous about walking through it to get up to his house, but he'll get used to it.
Once reassembly is complete and the concrete dry the next decision will be what to grow around it and on top. John has suggested kiwi fruit but I'm leaning toward grapes. The other option is "espaliered" fruit trees on each side, but let's face it, we're not the best at training plants. We've just killed a wisteria, and I can't even discipline tomatoes properly! Hops would be attractive, although John hasn't announced plans to start a microbrewery on the farm just yet. "Piopio Pilsner" does have a ring to it though, doesn't it? Hmmm, might have to get some hops for somewhere.
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