So You Think You Can't Grow Apples And Pears?

Then think again, says Sue Bradley. From top picks to pruning and planting pointers, our straightforward guide to these longed-for fruits has all you need to get started…

- Sue Bradley

DID you know that the original Bramley apple tree, grown from a pip in the early 1800s, lived for more than 200 years before succumbing to honey fungus? While you might not get quite so much value from one planted today, fruit trees remain one of the best investments a gardener can make. Opt for an apple or pear tree and, in general, it will need little care and attention and will produce bountiful fruit crops.

When choosing, it’s worth spending some time researching the options before you commit. Get it right, and you will never look back; choose badly and you’ll have bags of fruit that nobody wants.

Key considerations are flavor and usage. Ask yourself: do you prefer something sweet or a more tart taste? And what are you growing the fruit for – eating straight off the tree or cooking? Storing, juicing or making cider?

Other factors are harvesting time and planting position – most varieties do best in sunny, sheltered spots but some can be grown in shadier conditions. Also, consider the geographical location of your garden. Apples and pears achieve their sweetest notes in the drier, sunnier south and east, but that’s not to say that anyone living in areas with cooler climates cannot grow them – you’ll just need to select early- and mid-season ripening varieties. Or find a favourable microclimate, such as a sunny spot against a south-facing wall. Pears are not a good option for the north-west or far south-west, however; gardeners in these areas would be better off opting for apples and plums instead.

Pollination partners

And don’t forget about pollination. While a few varieties are self-fertile, many need pollen from different trees to produce fruit, and that means having other apple or pear trees nearby.