Castle and Gardens of Freÿr / Meuse (Belgium)
Repotting the orange trees
-
As the orange tree cases age, they must be replaced with an average periodicity of 30 years.
-
This operation occurs in the orangery along the Meuse
when the trees are going to be moved in the garden (at the beginning of May),
following a technique which is explained during your visit.
-
The boards age more quickly and must be replaced more often (see the photograph).
-
The tubs are carpentry works:
four vertical uprights connected by two series of horizontal planks (one in bottom, the other in top),
between which panels are placed.
-
The whole set is solidified by iron bars:
under the tub to carry and distribute better the weight of the tree,
the L's at the lower corners of the uprights, and removable bars to retain the uprights and to fasten the tub.
Orange trees have to be repotted after 30 years
Photo : F. Bonaert