Fruity ideas…from garden to kitchen table

Autumn is the perfect time to plant fruit trees as the soil is still warm and it also gives tree roots enough time to establish before colder weather hits.

Fruit trees can make a huge impact to any garden, adding height and structure, often offering more than one season of interest and providing delicious fruit.

There’s also a tree to suit any garden, provided you weigh up the final height and spread and make sure it suits the space and growing conditions available. 

Suggestions include apple, pear, plums and cherry trees that all tend to enjoy sunny but sheltered spots.

Planting trees is also fairly simple too.  Start by preparing the soil in the spot where the tree is to be planted with fertiliser, then just dig a hole that’s large enough to comfortably take its roots.  Place the tree in the hole and cover the roots with soil up to the surrounding ground level, then simply firm down the soil making sure it is in contact with the roots.  Water well if the conditions are dry.  Some trees may need to be staked, but ask at the time of buying your tree for further advice.

Self pollinating varieties are available, however fruit tree pollination is rarely a problem due to the vast number of fruit trees across the country.