Caroline Ball

Writer and gardener Caroline Ball tells the stories behind the heritage apple varieties listed in the popular Victorian illustrated guide The Herefordshire Pomona.

Pomonas – beautifully illustrated and painstakingly researched fruit books named after the Roman goddess of gardens and orchards – were popular in the 19th century. The Herefordshire Pomona was published by the Woolhope Naturalists Field Club and features many varieties still around today, including Blenheim Orange, Worcester Pearmain, Ribston Pippin, Margil and Pitmaston Pine Apple. Ball looks at the stories behind the varieties, discusses their merits for eating, cooking or making cider, and gives tips on growing them.

Ball is an editor, copywriter and translator. She has written on many subjects including horticulture, travel, antiques and William Morris.

This event is part of a series under the banner Pasture to Plate® that look at the environmental and health benefits of raising food on pasture and getting it to the consumer quickly through a short supply chain.

Presented by Bodleian Libraries.