Grow fruit on a small scale


Dwarf trees, trailing vines and berry bushes can all grow in containers

Grow fruit on a small scale

Raspberries can provide pounds of fruit in a patio garden.

Photograph by: Fotolia , Postmedia News

While it is relatively easy to grow a vegetable garden just about anywhere, people wishing to grow fruit trees in an urban environment face challenges.

Fortunately, there are solutions.

"Grow what you eat, eat what you grow" has become the mantra for a younger, health-conscious generation. There's nothing more tasty than homegrown food.

For homeowners looking to downsize and move closer to the urban core, smaller lots usually mean some larger plants can't make the transition - typically fruit trees.

Nurseries now carry smaller versions of trees - dwarf and miniature varieties. These fruit trees produce regular-sized fruit on scaled-down versions of familiar trees.

"The smaller varieties of fruit trees save a tremendous amount of space," says Anna Saunders, principal landscape designer at the Blenkinsop Gardenworks store. "Some can be even be grown in containers on the balcony of a condominium."

She says growing fruit is possible as long as the property gets enough sunlight. That means fruit production would be unlikely for people in north-facing properties. "Any fruiting plant needs sun."

People with small properties can also espalier their tree. This horticultural practice has been around for centuries. The gardener prunes the tree so it grows in a single plane - often flat against a wall. The formal pattern is also decorative. Setting the tree against a south-facing wall ensures the heat and sun it needs.

"They are not the highest producers," says Saunders, "But they solve the space problem and, when done properly, add [visual] interest to a garden."

People shopping for trees will likely encounter dwarf or miniature varieties. It's important to remember the miniature trees are smaller than the dwarf verities. The tag that comes with the tree will usually give buyers information as to the expected maximum height when fully mature.

Miniature trees are ideal for container gardening.

Saunders says there is no need to turn a tree in a heavy container constantly so that all sides get even amount of sunlight.

"Trees planted in the soil don't turn, so why should you?" she says.

Container plantings taken to the extreme can result in another wellknown horticultural specialty - bonsai fruit trees that can grow on a coffee table inside a house.

Apple trees are the most popular fruit tree sold. They are followed by peaches, cherries and plums, according to Jacques Ponchet, founder of Le Coteau Farms. The popular nursery, which dates back to 1956, sells a number of fruit trees.

His current catalogue lists 15 very dwarf trees (six to seven feet), 45 dwarf (eight to 12 feet) and 24 semi-dwarf (12 to 15 feet) varieties of apple trees as well as a number of crabapple, pear, plum, peach, cherry, quince and nectarine trees. He also sells shrubs such as raspberries and blueberries.

Choosing a variety of tree based on personal preference is one thing. But homeowners should also be aware of the unique blend of climate, location (which includes hours of sunshine) and soil in the spot where they want to plant.

He points out that different trees and shrubs require different types of soil and light conditions.

Planted in the wrong conditions, a tree will not grow or produce to its potential. The idea is to choose the right tree for the location.

"Be aware of competition for light from neighbouring trees and hedges," advises Ponchet, 82. "It is especially critical in an urban environment, where houses are closer together."

In that regard, pears are more desirable in the city as they tolerate shade better than apples do.

Sometimes gardeners need to augment the soil for best results. Victoria typically has a lot of clay in the soil. It needs regular treatments with sand and organic material, such as compost. In many areas the soil tends to be acidic, and needs periodic applications of lime to sweeten it.

A hot south wall on a house with an overhang would be the perfect place for peaches. The plant loves the heat but doesn't like to get its leaves wet. Peach leaf curl is a serious fungal affliction and affects every variety - although there are some new varieties that are more resistant. Ponchet suggests applying a copper spray and to cover the plant with a clear sheet between April and May.

He says there aren't any plants that people need to give up when downsizing, even to a condominium. But he has a caveat:

"You will get the best results if you spend time looking after the tree," he says. "If you ignore it, don't expect too much."

Fruits that grow on bushes and vines also work for compact home gardens. Raspberry canes can be surprisingly prolific. And grapes have a particular advantage - a properly trained vine provides the homeowner with two benefits. Obviously it gives fruit, but it also offers shade from the sun in the summer.


Original source article: Grow fruit on a small scale

Raspberries can provide pounds of fruit in a patio garden.

Photograph by: Fotolia, Postmedia News


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