Liberated chestnut tree

“There is a chestnut in there, somewhere“, the previous owner said when we surveyed the land and came upon an overgrown thicket in the borderlands of the cadastral map, a little South-East of “the savannah” and not too far from “the desert“. That was 5-6 months ago. The other day [september, late summer, equinoxe] I finally went and liberated it, as it shown itself proudly and vitally above the hawthorn, approx 3-4 metres tall.

Here it is, our liberated chestnut tree, standing almost as far from the house as it could, creating an outpost:

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We are still observing and reflecting on what shall happen down that end. More chestnut, some walnuts?

Meanwhile, should you not be familiar with chestnut, here is a relatively short machine-generated intro:

“…Mythical Aspects and Legendary Qualities of Chestnut Trees:

1. Symbol of Longevity and Strength:
   • In various cultures, chestnut trees are seen as symbols of longevity and endurance due to their ability to live for centuries and produce abundant fruit. They often represent strength and resilience.
2. Folklore and Cultural Significance:
   • Chestnut trees feature prominently in folklore and legends, often associated with mythical creatures, spirits, or magical properties. These stories vary by region but add a rich cultural dimension to the tree.

Major Uses of Real Chestnut Trees:

1. Nutritional Benefits:
   • Edible Nuts: Chestnut trees produce nutritious nuts, valued for their culinary uses in a variety of dishes, such as roasted chestnuts, chestnut stuffing, and desserts.
2. Medicinal Uses:
   • Traditional Remedies: Chestnut leaves and bark have been used in traditional medicine for their astringent properties. They were historically applied topically or brewed into infusions to treat ailments like skin conditions.
3. Wood Production:
   • Durable Timber: Chestnut wood is prized for its durability and resistance to decay. It has been used for constructing buildings, furniture, and agricultural implements.

Environmental Benefits Provided by Chestnut Trees:

1. Climate and Carbon Sequestration:
   • Chestnut trees, being deciduous, contribute to climate mitigation by sequestering carbon dioxide. Their annual leaf litter adds organic matter to the soil, helping store carbon.
2. Soil Improvement:
   • Chestnut trees have deep roots that prevent soil erosion and improve soil structure. They also enhance soil fertility through nitrogen fixation by symbiotic bacteria.
3. Habitat Restoration:
   • Efforts to restore chestnut trees, especially the American chestnut, aid in the restoration of forest ecosystems. They provide habitat and food for wildlife, contributing to biodiversity.
4. Cultural and Aesthetic Value:
   • Chestnut trees hold cultural and aesthetic value as majestic trees in landscapes, parks, and gardens. They add to the beauty and character of natural environments.

In summary, chestnut trees have mythical and legendary qualities in various cultures, symbolizing longevity and strength. They offer a range of practical uses, from providing food and medicine to high-quality timber. Moreover, they bring about environmental benefits like carbon sequestration, soil improvement, and habitat restoration…”.