Tag:

Homegrown Fruit

Grow Nectarines in Pots: A Beginner’s Guide to Growing Fruit Trees in Containers

by Donna August 13, 2024

written by Donna 3 minutes read

Growing Nectarines in Pots: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

Nectarines are delicious and nutritious fruits that can be grown in a variety of climates. If you don’t have a lot of space or live in a cold climate, growing nectarines in pots is a great option. With the right care, you can enjoy fresh, homegrown nectarines right from your patio or balcony.

Choosing the Right Pot

The ideal size for a nectarine tree container is between 15 and 20 gallons. If you’re planting a sapling, start with a smaller pot and transplant it up every year or two. Nectarines prefer slightly constricted roots, so don’t go too big with the pot size.

Choosing the Right Variety

When growing nectarines in pots, it’s best to choose a dwarf variety that’s bred to stay small. Nectar Babe and Necta Zee are two good options. These varieties will produce fruit even in small containers.

Planting Your Nectarine Tree

Fill your pot with a well-draining potting mix. Dig a hole in the center of the pot that is twice the width of the root ball. Place the tree in the hole and backfill with soil, tamping down gently to remove any air pockets. Water the tree deeply and mulch around the base to retain moisture.

Care Tips

Sunlight: Nectarine trees need at least six hours of full sun each day.
Watering: Water your nectarine tree frequently, especially during hot weather. The soil should be moist but not soggy.
Fertilizer: Feed your nectarine tree every few weeks with a high-phosphorus fertilizer. This will encourage flowering and fruit production.
Pruning: Prune your nectarine tree in pots to encourage low, horizontal branches. This will create a shrub-like shape that takes advantage of the tree’s small size.

Overwintering Your Nectarine Tree

If you live in a cold climate, you will need to overwinter your nectarine tree. Bring the tree indoors to a cool, dark place such as a garage or basement. Water the tree sparingly over the winter months, just enough to keep the soil from drying out completely. In the spring, when the weather warms up, you can move the tree back outside.

Troubleshooting

Yellowing leaves: This can be a sign of nutrient deficiency. Fertilize your tree more frequently.
Brown spots on leaves: This can be a sign of fungal disease. Treat with a fungicide.
Fruit drop: This can be caused by a lack of pollination. Hand-pollinate your tree by gently brushing a paintbrush across the flowers.
Pests: Nectarine trees can be susceptible to pests such as aphids and spider mites. Treat with an insecticidal soap or neem oil.

Conclusion

With a little care and attention, you can grow a healthy and productive nectarine tree in a pot. Enjoy the delicious fruits of your labor all season long!

Fruit Gardening

Planting Fruit Trees in the Garden: A Comprehensive Guide for Beginners

by Donna August 10, 2024

written by Donna 4 minutes read

Planting Fruit Trees in the Garden for a Sweet Harvest

Introduction

Growing fruit trees in your backyard can be a rewarding experience, providing you and your family with fresh, ripe fruit right from your own garden. Not only are they a delicious addition to your diet, but fruit trees can also enhance the beauty of your landscape. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you get started with planting and caring for fruit trees.

Planning Your Fruit Tree Garden

Before you start planting, it’s important to plan your fruit tree garden carefully. First, consider the amount of space you have available. If you have a small yard, you may want to opt for dwarf or semi-dwarf varieties of fruit trees that grow to a smaller size.

Next, research the climate in your region. Some fruit trees require a certain number of “chill hours” each winter, which are hours when the temperature drops below 45 degrees Fahrenheit. Make sure to select varieties that are hardy in your area.

Planting Your Fruit Trees

Once you’ve chosen your fruit trees, it’s time to plant them. Here are the steps to follow:

Dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball of the tree and just as deep.
Place the tree in the hole and fill it with soil, tamping down gently to remove any air pockets.
Water the tree deeply and regularly, especially during the first growing season.

Caring for Your Fruit Trees

Fruit trees require regular care to thrive. Here are some tips:

Fertilize your trees: Fruit trees need regular fertilization to produce fruit. Use a balanced fertilizer and follow the instructions on the package.
Prune your trees: Pruning helps to keep your trees healthy and productive. Remove any dead or diseased branches, and shape the tree to encourage fruit production.
Water your trees: Fruit trees need regular watering, especially during hot, dry weather. Water deeply and infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Protect your trees from pests and diseases: Fruit trees can be susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases. Inspect your trees regularly and take steps to control any problems as they arise.

Harvesting Your Fruit

The best part of growing fruit trees is harvesting the ripe fruit. Here are some tips:

Know when your fruit is ripe: Different fruits ripen at different times. Pay attention to the color, texture, and taste of the fruit to determine when it’s ready to harvest.
Harvest carefully: Use sharp shears or a knife to harvest your fruit. Be careful not to damage the fruit or the tree.
Store your fruit properly: Store your fruit in a cool, dark place to extend its shelf life.

Troubleshooting Common Problems

Here are some common problems you may encounter when growing fruit trees:

My tree is not producing fruit: This could be due to a variety of factors, such as lack of pollination, insufficient sunlight, or improper pruning.
My tree has pests or diseases: Inspect your tree regularly and take steps to control any problems as they arise. Use pesticides or fungicides as needed, but always follow the instructions on the label carefully.
My tree is dying: This could be due to a variety of factors, such as disease, drought, or root damage. Contact a certified arborist for help.

Conclusion

Growing fruit trees in your backyard can be a rewarding experience that provides you with fresh, delicious fruit and enhances the beauty of your landscape. By following the tips in this guide, you can successfully plant, care for, and harvest your fruit trees for years to come.

Fruit Gardening

Growing a Fruit Salad Garden: The Ultimate Guide for Beginners

by Donna July 30, 2024

written by Donna 4 minutes read

Growing Your Own Fruit Salad Garden: A Beginner’s Guide

Introduction

Imagine stepping into your backyard and picking fresh, juicy fruits for a refreshing fruit salad. Growing a fruit salad garden is a rewarding and delicious way to enjoy the fruits of your labor. This beginner’s guide will provide you with everything you need to know to create your own fruit-filled paradise.

What is a Fruit Salad Garden?

A fruit salad garden is simply a garden that includes a variety of fruit-bearing plants. Unlike traditional gardens that focus on vegetables or flowers, fruit salad gardens prioritize the cultivation of fruits. This can include fruit trees, bushes, vines, and even dwarf fruit trees for patios or small spaces.

Planning Your Fruit Salad Garden

Before you start planting, there are a few key factors to consider:

USDA Hardiness Zone: Determine the USDA hardiness zone for your area to select plants that can withstand your local climate.
Soil Conditions: Fruit trees prefer well-draining loamy soil. Ensure your garden site has adequate drainage and aeration.
Sunlight: Fruit-bearing plants need plenty of sunlight to produce fruit. Choose a sunny location in your garden.
Pollination: Some fruit plants require a partner for pollination. Research the pollination requirements of your chosen plants.

Choosing the Right Plants

The variety of fruit plants you can grow depends on your climate and space. Here are some popular options:

Fruit Trees: Apple, peach, plum, cherry, pear
Fruit Bushes: Blueberry, raspberry, blackberry, currant
Fruit Vines: Grape, kiwi, passion fruit
Dwarf Fruit Trees: Perfect for patios or small gardens, these produce full-sized fruit on smaller trees.

Planting and Care

Prepare the soil by digging holes twice the width of the root ball and just as deep.
Amend the soil with compost or organic matter to improve drainage and fertility.
Plant the trees or bushes, ensuring the graft union (where the rootstock and scion meet) is above the soil line.
Water deeply and regularly, especially during hot, dry weather.
Mulch around the plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Maintenance

Pruning: Prune fruit trees and bushes regularly to maintain shape, encourage fruit production, and prevent disease.
Fertilization: Fertilize fruit plants according to their specific needs.
Pest and Disease Control: Monitor your plants for pests and diseases and treat as necessary.
Disease Resistance: Choose disease-resistant varieties to minimize pest and disease problems.

Harvesting

Harvest fruit when it is ripe and at its peak flavor.
Handle fruit carefully to avoid bruising.
Store fruit properly to extend its shelf life.

Benefits of Growing a Fruit Salad Garden

Fresh, Homegrown Fruit: Enjoy the taste and nutritional benefits of fresh, homegrown fruit.
Reduced Grocery Bills: Growing your own fruit can save you money on produce.
Health Benefits: Fruits are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Educational Value: Teach children about the importance of agriculture and healthy eating.
Environmental Benefits: Fruit trees and bushes can provide habitat for wildlife and enhance biodiversity.

Tips for Success

Start small and gradually expand your garden as you gain experience.
Choose plants that are well-suited to your climate and growing conditions.
Mulch heavily to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Water deeply and regularly, especially during hot, dry weather.
Be patient, as it takes time for fruit trees and bushes to establish and produce fruit.

With a little planning, care, and patience, you can grow a thriving fruit salad garden that will provide you with a bounty of delicious, homegrown fruit for years to come.

Fruit Gardening

Growing Sweet Sixteen Apple Trees: Your Ultimate Guide for Beginners

by Gregory July 23, 2024

written by Gregory 4 minutes read

Growing Sweet Sixteen Apple Trees: A Guide for Beginners

Introduction

Do you love fresh, juicy apples right from your own backyard? With a Sweet Sixteen apple tree, you can enjoy delicious, homegrown apples year after year. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about growing and caring for a Sweet Sixteen apple tree.

Sweet Sixteen Apple Tree Description

The Sweet Sixteen apple tree is a popular choice for home gardeners because of its sweet, crisp fruit and attractive appearance. Here’s what you can expect:

Fruit: Sweet Sixteen apples are medium to large in size, with a blushing pink to red skin. The flesh is cream to yellow, juicy, and has a unique sweet flavor with a hint of anise.
Tree Size: The tree can grow up to 20 feet tall and wide, making it a small to medium-sized tree that’s perfect for most backyard landscapes.
Blossoms: In spring, the tree produces small, sweet-smelling blossoms that attract pollinators.

Growing Conditions

Sweet Sixteen apple trees are hardy and can grow in U.S. zones 3 to 9. They prefer:

Sunlight: Full sun for at least 6 hours per day.
Soil: Well-draining soil that’s rich in organic matter.
Pollination: Sweet Sixteen apples require a different apple variety nearby to produce fruit. Recommended pollinators include Prairie Spy, Yellow Delicious, and Honeycrisp.

Planting and Care

Planting: Choose a sunny spot with well-drained soil. Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and just as deep. Place the tree in the hole and fill it with soil, tamping down gently to remove air pockets. Water deeply.
Pruning: Prune young trees regularly in winter to encourage a strong structure. Remove water sprouts and weak or damaged limbs. As the tree ages, pruning can help maintain fruit production and tree health.
Watering: Water your tree regularly, especially during hot, dry weather.
Fertilizing: Fertilize your tree in spring with a balanced fertilizer.

Pests and Diseases

Like all apple trees, Sweet Sixteen can be prone to certain pests and diseases. Common problems include:

Apple scab: A fungal disease that causes brown or black spots on the leaves and fruit.
Apple blight: A bacterial disease that can cause wilting and dieback of branches.
Codling moth: A pest that can damage the fruit.

To prevent these problems, use a horticultural dormant spray in winter. In spring, avoid using pesticides on the tree when it’s in bloom to protect beneficial pollinators.

Harvesting and Uses

Sweet Sixteen apples are typically ready to harvest in mid to late summer. They can be eaten fresh or used in a variety of recipes, such as:

Apple cider
Applesauce
Apple pie
Apple butter

The sweet, slightly anise-like flavor of Sweet Sixteen apples makes them a delicious addition to any dish.

Conclusion

Growing a Sweet Sixteen apple tree is a rewarding experience that can provide you with fresh, homegrown apples for years to come. By following the tips outlined in this guide, you can ensure your tree thrives and produces an abundance of delicious fruit.

Fruit Growing

Growing Pawpaws: A Unique and Delicious Fruit for Your Backyard

by Gregory July 20, 2024

written by Gregory 3 minutes read

Pawpaw: A Unique Fruit and How to Grow Your Own

The pawpaw is a fascinating fruit native to North America. It’s said to have been a favorite of Thomas Jefferson, and it deserves to be more widely known today.

What is a Pawpaw?

Pawpaws are often described as a cross between a banana and a mango, with a pulpy texture and large seeds. They grow wild in groves, and their fruit drops from the trees in autumn.

Growing Pawpaws from Seed

The most common way to propagate pawpaws is by planting the seeds. You can either plant the entire fruit in the ground in autumn, or you can harvest the seeds first. If you choose to harvest the seeds, let the fruit ripen fully before removing them.

To prepare the seeds for planting, remove the flesh and allow them to dry. Then, scarify them by lightly scratching the surface with a knife or sandpaper. This will help them absorb water more easily.

Store the seeds in a cold spot for two to three months before planting them outdoors in late autumn.

Grafting Pawpaws

Pawpaws can also be propagated by grafting. This is a more advanced technique, but it can be successful with the right care.

To graft a pawpaw, you will need a scion (a stem from a dormant tree that is two to three years old) and a rootstock (the base of a young pawpaw tree). Graft the scion onto the rootstock using a compatible grafting method.

Propagating Pawpaws from Cuttings

It is also possible to propagate pawpaws from cuttings, but this method has a lower success rate.

To propagate pawpaws from cuttings, take softwood cuttings of 6 to 8 inches in late summer. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in a moist, well-draining growing medium.

Keep the cuttings warm and humid, and provide them with plenty of light. With luck, they will develop roots and begin to grow into new pawpaw trees.

Tips for Growing Pawpaws

Here are a few tips for growing pawpaws successfully:

Choose a sunny spot with well-drained soil.
Water your pawpaw trees regularly, especially during dry spells.
Fertilize your pawpaw trees annually with a balanced fertilizer.
Protect your pawpaw trees from pests and diseases.

With proper care, pawpaw trees can live for many years and produce abundant fruit. So if you’re looking for a unique and delicious fruit to grow in your own backyard, give pawpaws a try!

Fruit and Vegetable Gardening

Grow Your Own Fruit: Patio Fruit Trees and Berry Bushes for Small Spaces

by Gregory April 18, 2024

written by Gregory 4 minutes read

Patio Fruit Trees and Berry Bushes: Grow Your Own Fruits and Save Money

Summer is the perfect time to enjoy fresh, homegrown fruit. And with the right plants, you can grow your own delicious fruits even if you have a small patio or balcony.

Potted Fruit Trees and Berry Bushes

Potted fruit trees and berry bushes are a great way to grow fruit in small spaces. They’re easy to care for and can be moved around to different locations as needed.

Benefits of Potted Fruit Trees and Berry Bushes:

Easy to grow, even for beginners
Can be grown in small spaces, such as patios and balconies
Provide fresh, homegrown fruit
Add beauty and interest to your outdoor space

Best Potted Fruit Trees and Berry Bushes for Patios and Balconies

When choosing potted fruit trees and berry bushes, it’s important to select varieties that are well-suited to growing in containers. Some of the best options include:

Fruit Trees:

Patio Lemon Tree
Patio Pear Conference
Patio Apple Cox’s Orange Sunset

Berry Bushes:

Potted Strawberry Korona
Potted Blueberry Goldtraube
Potted Strawberry Cambridge Favourite
Potted Grape Vitis Green/White
Potted Raspberry Malling Promise
Potted Gooseberry Invicta
Potted Blackberry Black Satin

How to Care for Potted Fruit Trees and Berry Bushes

Potted fruit trees and berry bushes need regular care to produce the best possible fruit. Here are some tips:

Watering: Water your plants regularly, especially during hot weather.
Fertilizing: Fertilize your plants every few weeks with a balanced fertilizer.
Pruning: Prune your plants regularly to remove dead or diseased branches and to encourage new growth.
Pest and disease control: Inspect your plants regularly for pests and diseases. Treat any problems as soon as possible.

Where to Find the Best Deals on Patio Fruit Trees and Berry Bushes

There are many places to find potted fruit trees and berry bushes. You can find them at local nurseries, garden centers, and online retailers.

One of the best places to find deals on patio fruit trees and berry bushes is Gardener’s Dream. They offer a wide variety of plants at affordable prices. Plus, they’re currently offering a 10% discount on all potted fruit trees and berry bushes.

How to Create a Mini Orchard in a Small Space

If you have a small patio or balcony, you can still grow your own fruit by creating a mini orchard. Here are some tips:

Choose the right plants: Select varieties of fruit trees and berry bushes that are well-suited to growing in containers.
Use vertical space: Use trellises and other vertical supports to grow your plants up instead of out.
Plant in groups: Plant your fruit trees and berry bushes in groups to create a more productive and visually appealing display.

Easy Ways to Enjoy Homegrown Fruit and Berries

There are many ways to enjoy homegrown fruit and berries. Here are a few ideas:

Eat them fresh: Enjoy your fruit and berries fresh from the plant.
Make smoothies: Blend your fruit and berries with yogurt and milk for a healthy and refreshing smoothie.
Bake with them: Use your fruit and berries to make pies, cakes, and other delicious treats.
Preserve them: Can, freeze, or dry your fruit and berries to enjoy them all year long.

Growing your own patio fruit trees and berry bushes is a great way to enjoy fresh, homegrown fruit. With the right plants and care, you can grow a thriving mini orchard in even the smallest of spaces.

Fruit Gardening

Growing Apricot Trees: A Complete Guide for Beginners

by Gregory April 14, 2024

written by Gregory 4 minutes read

All About Growing Apricot Trees

Apricot trees are a wonderful choice for home gardeners, as they are relatively easy to grow and produce delicious, nutritious fruit. Here’s everything you need to know about growing apricot trees, from choosing the right variety to caring for your tree throughout its lifetime.

Choosing the Right Apricot Tree Variety

The first step in growing apricot trees is to choose the right variety. There are many different varieties of apricot trees available, each with its own unique characteristics. Some of the most popular varieties include:

Royal Blenheim: A classic apricot variety known for its large, sweet fruit.
Moorpark: A large, flavorful apricot variety that is well-suited to warm climates.
Tilton: A smaller apricot variety that is known for its early ripening fruit.
Harglow: A hardy apricot variety that is well-suited to cold climates.
Goldrich: A high-yielding apricot variety that produces large, golden-orange fruit.

When choosing an apricot tree variety, it is important to consider your climate and the size of your yard. If you live in a cold climate, you will need to choose a hardy variety that can withstand freezing temperatures. If you have a small yard, you may want to choose a dwarf or semi-dwarf variety.

Planting Your Apricot Tree

Once you have chosen an apricot tree variety, it is time to plant your tree. Apricot trees prefer well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. They also need full sun to produce the best fruit.

To plant your apricot tree, dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball and just as deep. Place the tree in the hole and backfill with soil, tamping down gently to remove any air pockets. Water the tree deeply and mulch around the base to help retain moisture.

Caring for Your Apricot Tree

Apricot trees are relatively low-maintenance trees, but they do require some basic care to produce the best fruit.

Watering: Apricot trees need about 1 inch of water per week, especially during the hot summer months. Water your tree deeply, allowing the water to penetrate down to the roots.

Fertilizing: Apricot trees should be fertilized in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer package for the specific amount to apply.

Pruning: Apricot trees should be pruned in the late winter or early spring. Pruning helps to remove dead or diseased branches and to encourage new growth. When pruning, remove any branches that are crossing or rubbing against each other. You should also remove any suckers that are growing from the base of the tree.

Harvesting Your Apricots

Apricots are typically ready to harvest in the summer. The fruit will be ripe when it is soft to the touch and has a slightly orange-yellow color. To harvest apricots, gently twist the fruit from the branch.

Once you have harvested your apricots, you can enjoy them fresh, canned, or dried. Apricots are a delicious and nutritious fruit that can be enjoyed in many different ways.

Troubleshooting Common Apricot Tree Problems

Apricot trees are generally healthy trees, but they can be susceptible to a few common problems, including:

Pests: Aphids, scale, and mites are common pests of apricot trees. These pests can damage the leaves and fruit of the tree. To control pests, use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Diseases: Apricot trees can also be susceptible to a few common diseases, including brown rot, powdery mildew, and shot hole disease. To control diseases, use fungicides.

If you are having problems with pests or diseases on your apricot tree, consult with a local nursery or garden center for advice on how to control the problem.

Fruit Trees

Planting and Growing Autumn Crisp Apple Trees: A Comprehensive Guide for Beginners

by Gregory October 14, 2023

written by Gregory 3 minutes read

Planting and Growing Autumn Crisp Apple Trees: A Beginner’s Guide

Introduction

Growing fruit trees in your backyard can be a rewarding experience, and apple trees are a popular choice for many home gardeners. One variety of apple that is especially prized for its versatility and delicious flavor is the Autumn Crisp. In this guide, we will cover everything you need to know about planting and growing Autumn Crisp apple trees, from choosing the right location to harvesting and storing your apples.

What are Autumn Crisp Apple Trees?

Autumn Crisp apple trees are a cross between the Golden Delicious and Monroe apple varieties. They are known for their crisp, juicy texture and sweet-tart flavor. Autumn Crisp apples are also rich in Vitamin C and have a long shelf life.

Choosing a Planting Location

When choosing a planting location for your Autumn Crisp apple tree, there are a few things to keep in mind:

Sunlight: Apple trees need full sun, or at least six to eight hours of sunlight each day.
Soil: The soil should be well-drained and amended with compost or other organic matter.
Space: Apple trees can grow to be quite large, so make sure to choose a location where they will have plenty of room to grow.

Planting Your Apple Tree

Once you have chosen a planting location, it is time to plant your apple tree. Here are the steps involved:

Dig a hole that is twice as wide and twice as deep as the root ball of the apple tree.
Place the tree in the hole and gently spread out the roots.
Backfill the hole with soil and tamp down gently to remove any air pockets.
Water the tree deeply and regularly, especially during the first growing season.

Caring for Your Apple Tree

Once your apple tree is planted, it is important to provide it with proper care to ensure healthy growth and bountiful harvests. Here are some tips for caring for your Autumn Crisp apple tree:

Watering: Apple trees need regular watering, especially during the hot summer months. Water your tree deeply and regularly, but avoid overwatering.
Fertilization: Apple trees benefit from regular fertilization. Fertilize your tree in the spring and fall with a balanced fertilizer.
Pruning: Pruning helps to keep your apple tree healthy and productive. Prune your tree in the late winter or early spring, before new growth begins.
Pest and Disease Control: Apple trees can be susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases. Monitor your tree regularly for signs of problems and take appropriate action to control them.

Harvesting and Storing Your Apples

Autumn Crisp apples are typically ready to harvest in late September or early October. To harvest your apples, simply twist them gently from the branches. Once you have harvested your apples, store them in a cool, dark place. Apples can be stored for several months if they are properly stored.

Conclusion

Growing Autumn Crisp apple trees is a rewarding experience that can provide you with fresh, delicious apples for years to come. By following the tips in this guide, you can successfully plant and grow Autumn Crisp apple trees in your own backyard.

Fruit Gardening

English Morello Cherries: A Comprehensive Guide to Growing and Enjoying Sour Cherries

by Gregory January 12, 2022

written by Gregory 3 minutes read

English Morello Cherries: A Guide to Growing and Enjoying Sour Cherries

Introduction

Cherries come in two main varieties: sweet cherries and sour or acidic cherries. While some people enjoy eating sour cherries fresh from the tree, they are more often used for making jams, jellies, and pies. English Morello cherries are a popular variety of sour cherry that is ideal for cooking and baking.

About English Morello Cherries

English Morello cherries are the most popular cooking cherries in the UK, where they have been grown for over four centuries. They are also well-suited to growing in the United States.

These cherry trees grow to about 20 feet tall, but they can be pruned to a shorter height if desired. They are highly ornamental, with showy blossoms that remain on the tree for an exceptionally long period of time.

English Morello cherry trees are self-fruitful, which means that they do not require another cherry tree nearby to produce fruit. However, they can also serve as pollinators for other cherry trees.

The fruit of English Morello cherry trees is very dark red and can even border on black. The cherries are smaller than typical sweet cherries, but each tree is productive and produces a large amount of fruit. The juice of the cherries is also dark red.

Growing English Morello Cherries

You can grow English Morello cherries in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 4 through 9. The trees are small enough that you can grow two in a small garden, or you can plant them to create a flowering hedge.

When growing English Morello cherries, keep in mind that they ripen very late in the cherry season. You may still be harvesting cherries in the end of June or even July, depending on your location. The picking period typically lasts about a week.

Plant English Morello cherry trees in rich, well-draining soil. Fertilize the trees regularly, as they need more nitrogen than sweet cherry trees. You may also need to irrigate the trees more often than sweet cherry trees.

Culinary Uses of English Morello Cherries

English Morello cherries are prized for their tart flavor, which makes them ideal for use in cooking and baking. They are commonly used to make jams, jellies, pies, and other desserts. Morello cherries can also be used to make liqueurs and other alcoholic beverages.

Conclusion

English Morello cherries are a versatile and productive variety of sour cherry that is well-suited to growing in many parts of the United States. With their tart flavor and long blooming period, these cherry trees are a valuable addition to any garden.

Fruit Growing

Jubilee Plums: A Bigger, Better Victoria Plum | Growing, Care, and Recipes

by Donna March 16, 2021

written by Donna 4 minutes read

Jubilee Plums: A Bigger, Better Victoria Plum

If you’re a fan of Victoria plums, then you’ll love Jubilee plums. They’re a larger, improved version of the Victoria plum, with a deeper yellow color and a sweeter taste. Growing Jubilee plums is easy, even for beginners, as they’re disease resistant, hardy, and self-fertile.

What is a Jubilee Plum?

Jubilee plums, also known as Jubileum plums, are a type of plum that was developed in England. They’re similar in appearance to Victoria plums, with mottled red skin and a long, oval shape. However, Jubilee plums are larger and have a firmer texture.

When you cut open a Jubilee plum, you’ll find deep yellow flesh that’s juicy and sweet. They’re perfect for eating fresh, as they’re incredibly flavorful. But they can also be used for cooking and baking, adding a touch of sweetness and juiciness to your favorite recipes.

How to Grow Jubilee Plums

Growing Jubilee plums is not difficult, as long as you provide them with the right conditions. They need plenty of sunlight and well-draining soil. If you live in an area where Victoria plums grow well, then you’ll have no problem growing Jubilee plums.

Here are some tips for growing Jubilee plums:

Choose a planting site that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
Amend the soil with compost or manure to improve drainage and fertility.
Dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball of the tree and just as deep.
Place the tree in the hole and backfill with soil, tamping down gently to remove any air pockets.
Water the tree deeply and regularly, especially during the first growing season.
Fertilize the tree annually with a balanced fertilizer.

Jubilee Plum Care

Jubilee plum trees are relatively low-maintenance. However, there are a few things you can do to keep them healthy and productive.

Prune the tree in late winter or early spring to remove any dead or diseased branches.
Mulch around the tree to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Water the tree deeply during dry spells.
Protect the tree from pests and diseases by using organic methods, such as insecticidal soap or neem oil.

Harvesting Jubilee Plums

Jubilee plums are ready to harvest in mid-August. The fruit should be slightly soft to the touch and have a deep red color. To harvest the plums, gently twist them off the tree.

Store the plums in a cool, dry place for up to two weeks. They can also be frozen for up to six months.

Pollinators for Jubilee Plums

Although Jubilee plum trees are self-fertile, they can produce even more fruit if there is a compatible pollinator nearby. Some good pollinator varieties for Jubilee plums include:

Avalon
Belle de Louvain
Cambridge Gage
Early Transparent Gage
Farleigh
Guinevere
Merryweather
Opal
Victoria

Jubilee Plum Recipes

Jubilee plums are a versatile fruit that can be used in a variety of recipes. Here are a few ideas:

Fresh eating
Plum pie
Plum jam
Plum cobbler
Plum smoothie
Plum salad

With their sweet flavor and juicy texture, Jubilee plums are a delicious and nutritious addition to any diet. So if you’re looking for a new fruit to grow in your garden, be sure to give Jubilee plums a try!