"Hear that?" asks Stephen Briggs. "That's the trees whistling." The branches in his young orchard have caught the wind that races across the open fen-land, creating a strange vibrato. Growing apples in this wheat field makes efficient use of the nutrients in the ground-the tree roots keep burrowing below those of the crops. The trees also provide homes for pollinating insects and extend the harvesting season deep into autumn. By interrupting the wind they hold the nitrogen-rich soil in place. Mr Briggs credits the innovation with turning this once unremarkable patch of eastern England into one of the most productive farms in the country. Sadly, he is a rarity.
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