Blushing apricots

The apricots are hanging velvety with rosy cheeks in the orchard. Attracting every bird in the neighbourhood with their sweet deliciousness. We have accepted that some of the crop will have to be shared. That is the sacrifice one has to make if one creates a haven for birds in your garden.

On Saturday, the male sparrow was giving warning sounds as I walked into the orchard. I decided to investigate in case it was a snake. Following him from tree to tree I realised that it could not be a snake as he was leading me away from the trees. Somebody was being warned against my presence in the orchard.

Basket of apricots by Louise Moillon 1634

I discovered that the sparrow family had taken up permanent residence in the apricot tree when I noticed them feasting on some fallen apricots later in the morning.

Although we do have some fruit that was stung by Mediterranean Fruit Fly, they look ready to inspire an artist to painting them. I can understand why artists like Georg Flegel (1566 –1638), Louise Moillon (1610–1696) and Luis Egidio Meléndez (1716–1780) were inspired to do so.

Branch of apricots by Georg Flegel 1630-1637

One cannot help but pick one from the tree. Biting into the soft velvety skin, one enjoys its nectar sweet juicy flesh. The branches are heavy with the orange fruit and their blushing cheeks. Although the birds are an irritation at present, one can forgive them for being tempted by the deliciousness.

Still life with bowl of apricots and cherries by Luis Melendez 1773

The fruit brings pleasure to the meals in the Towerwater kitchen. From a luxurious bowl of fresh fruit for breakfast, to adding a sweet surprise to a masala roasted chicken for Sunday lunch.