MEADOW ORCHARDS
Tall-stemmed meadow orchards are a very important habitat for birds. The Kozjansko tall-stemmed orchards area is therefore a Natura 2000 site of European importance – SPA Kozjansko.
Meadow orchards belong to the habitat type of agricultural landscape or agrarian habitat type, which feature extensive use of agricultural surfaces maintaining traditional agricultural landscape and essentially contributing to preserving the biodiversity. This kind of habitat type is also one of the most endangered, which is due to changes in the use of agricultural land, a decrease in agricultural production and the consequent overgrowing, economic changes, as well as changes in the social structure of the owners.
Meadow orchards are orchards with tall native and traditional fruit trees, under which the grass is mown and livestock are put out to pasture. Fruit species in such orchards include apples, pears, plums, apricots, cherries, walnuts, hazelnut and elderberry. Tall species are more resistant to diseases and pests, which means that no phytopharmaceutical agents are required.
They shape the appearance of the cultural landscape as they are found on their own in the landscape or in the surroundings of settlements and farmsteads, where they conceal outbuildings and protect them from the wind. Trees can be planted in rows or scattered, and can also be found as fruit tree alleys along farmland boundaries and public thoroughfares.
The diversity of fruit species and varieties is also important to diversify the fruit supply. In spring, they are a food source and a treasure trove of genetic resources for many pollinators in the nature.
Due to the increase in environment-friendly food production, which is gaining market traction, meadow orchards are one of the most successful good environmental practices in parks.
