Why do some fruit trees thrive while others struggle? with Derek Barbe and Chrisina Balint

Explore what soil biology can reveal about fruit tree health - and how compost, mulch, root-zone conditions, observation, and ongoing care can help fruit trees thrive.

Susan visits two community orchards in Peterborough, Ontario, with Christina Balint of GreenUP, where trees planted around roughly the same time are growing very differently. With soil microscopy expert Derek Barbe, they investigate what might be happening beneath the trees.

Resources from our guests:

Christina Balint | GreenUP

The orchards featured in this episode are part of a larger network of community orchards cared for by volunteers with support from GreenUP and community partners.

Peterborough Community Orchard Stewards

Read Christina's story: Peterborough's community orchards are growing more than fruit

Explore GreenUP volunteer opportunities

Support GreenUP's work

Derek Barbe | Soil microscopy

For those interested in exploring soil biology further, Derek recommends:

Soil Food Web Certified Listing Directory — find a practitioner near you