Enjoy bumper harvests of these sweet, delicious fruits – it couldn’t be simpler!
Apples
Apple trees are a long-term investment and they offer great value for money once established. After a couple of years, you’ll be biting into fresh, crunchy apples or baking them into indulgent pies or crumbles. But what if you don’t have an orchard to grow in? Well, with size-restricting rootstocks and clever training methods, there’s no reason why any small-space gardener can’t also reap the benefits of a homegrown apple tree.
Apple trees are purchased as either bare-root trees in their dormant state or grown in containers. The former tends to be cheaper and should be planted while still in their winter state (between October and March). Potted types can be planted at any time of year, but sticking to the dormant period with these is also advised.
Decide on the best location for your tree. A sunny and sheltered position that is clear of frost pockets is best. When you’re ready to plant, dig a large hole, which should be the same depth and around three times the width of the current root system. Pop a stake in the ground, too, to give added support. For a bare-root tree, ensure the root ball is moist, and if not, soak in a bucket for half an hour or so before planting. Container-grown trees will need the compost and roots loosening before placing into position. Match the soil level and make sure the tree is sitting comfortably and straight before backfilling the hole. Secure it into place by firming soil in around the base. Apart from the usual watering and pruning practices, an apple tree is relatively low maintenance.
Expect to wait between two to four years before fruit arrives. Most trees will blossom from April onwards, but do take care in colder regions of the country, or where late frosts hits – keep some horticultural fleece to hand to help protect blooms. Once fruits look plump and ripe, check to see if it’s time to harvest by lifting and twisting gently. If the apple comes away easily, it’s ready!
Pears
There are two basic types of pear – dessert pears, and those for cooking. Dessert pears are sweeter, while cooking varieties are better suited for using in bakes or for poaching.
Even though pears are planted, trained and pruned in a similar way to apples, these fruits tend to flower two to three weeks earlier and can’t cope with the cold weather. It’s best to plant pears in a sunny, sheltered spot that is not prone to frost pockets or wind. Remember, however, that the location has to be large enough to fit two trees, as most varieties will require a p
