National Tree Week starts this month, encouraging gardeners to plant a tree and keep our country lush and fruitful. November is the perfect time of year to plant fruit trees, giving them time to get bedded in for the Winter followed by a full Spring season of growth. If you’ve never planted a fruit tree before, why not join the effort this year and learn that no fruit tastes better than the ones you’ve grown yourself. Here are our top picks to get you started.
Apple Tree
The first variety of tree that might spring to mind is the Apple Tree, and for good reason. Did you know there are over 2500 varieties of apple from the UK alone? So you have plenty to choose from, from dessert kinds (best for eating) to culinary kinds for cooking. If you’re a first time apple tree owner, it might be easier to opt for a Modern variety, as these typically have improved disease resistance.
Plum Tree
Plums are one of the most popular fruits to grow in the UK, and that’s because the sweetness and flavour of a domestically grown plum is unmatched by the imported varieties you will find in the supermarkets year-round. The Oval Shapes European plums are a great choice as they are self pollinating and thrive in cooler climates. Damsons are also a popular, and super hardy, alternative
Pear Tree
Pear trees are an easy-to-grow option for beginners, and can even be grown in containers if you are limited on space. Just like with apples, there are different varieties for cooking and eating, with far more options that you will find in the supermarket. While eating may seem like the obvious choice, don’t forget about delicious crumbles and poached pears.
Cherry Tree
Not only delicious, cherry trees are visually beautiful, with their iconic pink and white blooms. Smaller varieties can even be grown in containers, to add some stunning colour to your patio. Choose between ‘sweet’ varieties, which are for eating, and ‘acid’ varieties which are better for cooking.