Today I picked it's 4 apples and tasted one. Not bad, very similar in taste to Granny Smiths (just like the label said!), only more yellow when fully ripe. Quite large apples too, about the size of a softball. I ended up waiting for the apples to fall off the tree once fully ripe as I had no idea how to tell when they'd be ripe...best thing is that the birds left them alone because they remained green for so long. They didn't turn yellow till earlier this week and fell off sometime during the night.
The tree so far reminds me of the Ballerina apple trees - very pole-like, fruiting from the trunk, and no branching.

So, I'm happy I brought the tree home with me!

Dainty little holes - then their mates the waxeyes arrive to hollow out the apples and leave an empty skin around a core dangling from the stem.

When those chooks find your place you'll be hiring in cats, I'm sure! My old girl is getting past it, but I'm luring the two giant ginger cats from next door, so an apple or two may survive to make it to the baking tray.

Thanks for the update - and the tips for handling Carex. I never thought of a weeding hook. Don't usually use one. Must be getting set in my ways...

Had your first serious frost yet? Last night - and I hadn't got Begonia 'Cleopatra' far enough under cover. Nasty pink and mushy leaves. Out with the blankets and frost cloths for the next couple of months or so. Sigh.

Our neighbours cat is the hunter around here. Ours has the right moves and is very interested, but she just hasn't quite got the knack of catching anything.

I never used to use a hook either, a neighbour who has trouble digging gave us a spare one and I've found it quite useful for all sorts.

No frost here just yet, close though. We hit 1 degree several nights in a row before this rain started. A bit further out in the country from us have had several light frosts, so it won't be long before it settles on us!
Sad to hear your begonia got hit - I hate it when I miss plants.

Good luck with protecting all your treasures!