FAQ for organic fruit trees

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Good sources of written/reference information are available from the Royal Horticultural Society (020-7834-4333), such as ‘Growing Fruit’ by Harry Baker.

Planting instructions are supplied on ordering.

For most gardens, a small-medium tree is required, for apples on either M26 or MM106 rootstock. A vigorus variety on M26 is as big as a weak-growing variety on MM106. Consideration should be given as to how the ground underneath is to be managed – where trees are to be in grass, then this must be mown, and low branches make things difficult. A clear stem of at least 1.2m is required, and a hover mower is preferred. In a very sheltered garden, a 1.2m stem can be created on M26, but normally MM106 would be used, since this is better able to withstand wind. Where a bigger tree is preferred, MM111 or even M25 can be used. (M27 is only suitable where a very small tree is required, growing in a bed, and kept well-fed.) Most varieties will attain at least 1.2m in the nursery in the first year, and will normally need cutting back after planting.

Where space is limited, cordons and espaliers are preferred(apples and pears). They can be planted alongside a path, on a fence or wall. Pruning is easy and is mostly a pleasurable summer job. Cordons in particular offer the opportunity to have many varieties in a small space - they are spaced just 2 1/2 feet apart. Another big advantage of trained trees, like these and espaliers, is that they can easily be kept to 6 feet high, so easily sheltered.

The importance of using a suitable variety is of paramount importance, since a good variety for the location will succeed despite somewhat adverse attention. I have an extensive database of varieties known to succeed in various parts of Scotland and northern England.

Where there is only room for one tree, then where other apples are nearby – as they normally are where there are adjoining gardens – pollination should not be a problem. Otherwise, if it is impossible to fit in another tree (even as a cordon), choose a variety marked as ‘self-fertile’.