Not the best mulch for the apple tree, but in Somerset perhaps they intend to make cider with them after they have been frosted, to break down the starches into sugars.

No - I understand that they asked their gardener to do it, to tidy up the windfalls, Docbob. Will it damage the trunk, do you think?

Strange... never seen or heard of though one of our neighbours has several apple trees and lets all the fruit just fall, never picks any of it (grr) doesn't even offer to neighbours!

It can't be good long term for the trunk but perhaps the gardner is going to go back and remove?

If there are any pigs around they will love the apples!

Hmmm, if it's the garden i think it is, there are pigs there :-)

Oh Louise! LOL!!!!!!!!

Nope, Mg, not as far as I know, anyway - and there are lots more around on the grass! I can't understand why they've asked him to do it, at all. It's a bit unsightly, as well, wouldn't you say?

No 'real' pigs - just sheep and steers around here...oh, and horses!!

The juice from them will damage the roots even now when it's dormant, also it will kill the grass and a host of small flies will breed on them. The blackbirds will peck them just for fun. What a mess.

Hmmm...Maybe I should go and see them...on the other hand, maybe not. Eeeeeuuuuuuggggghhhhh!!!!! It's their problem, really.

Have these people not heard of cider?!!

No idea, Fractal! I just saw this - and wondered about the effect on the poor tree! It is a waste, though.....

I wonder if the bagged apples will be taken away?

I'll keep my eyes open, Fractal.

One bag is not full so how about - its just a place to lean them till they finish the job?

Possibly, Denise - I shall have to await developments!

Apple watch? Spritz must say its got me guessing? Do let us know.

Of course!! I'd like to know, too!