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Cambridge University cancels annual apple day due to summer drought
Overview
Cambridge University Botanic Garden has cancelled its popular annual apple day, scheduled for 18 October, because low harvests caused by the summer's drought made it impossible to source enough heritage apples. Ticket holders will receive refunds, and the garden is developing a new irrigation network using harvested rainwater to help protect plants against future droughts.
Key points
- Cambridge University Botanic Garden cancelled its annual apple day due to low harvests from the summer drought.
- The event, which was due to be held on 18 October, relies on heritage apples that were not available in sufficient quantities.
- Ticket holders will be refunded for the cancelled event.
- Record-breaking summer temperatures and lack of rain have caused widespread struggles and crop failures for farmers across the UK.
- Drought-stressed plants produce fewer flowers that are less attractive to pollinators, reducing fruit and seed set.
- The botanic garden is developing an irrigation network reliant on harvested rainwater to protect plants and pollinators from future droughts.