Get a Head Start on Summer with your Favourite Fruits

Spring is the time to plant fruit-bearing plants that will provide delicious rewards in the months to come. People are often worried that the weather conditions aren’t the best for growing fruits, but if you are prepared for any late Spring frosts, you can be enjoying a beautiful fruit salad by July!

Growing fruit in the UK can be very rewarding, but the climate presents some challenges. Here are some tips to help you succeed:

1. Choose the Right Fruits

Some fruits thrive better in the UK's cool, temperate climate. Good options include:

• Apples & Pears – Hardy and well-suited to the UK. Choose disease-resistant varieties like ‘Discovery’ (apple) or ‘Conference’ (pear).
• Plums & Cherries – Prefer a sunny, sheltered spot. Consider self-fertile varieties like ‘Victoria’ (plum) and ‘Stella’ (cherry).
• Raspberries & Blackberries – Grow well in most soils and require little maintenance.
• Strawberries – Easy to grow in beds, containers, or hanging baskets.
• Gooseberries & Currants – Great for smaller gardens and tolerate some shade.
• Figs – Best in pots or against a south-facing wall for warmth.

2. Pick the Right Location

• Most fruit plants need at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
• Shelter them from strong winds using fences, hedges, or companion planting.
• Avoid frost pockets. Cold air settles in low areas and can damage blossoms in spring.

3. Improve Your Soil

• Well-drained soil is key; if your soil is heavy clay, improve it with compost or grit.
• Test your soil pH – most fruits prefer slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6.0-7.0).
• Mulch with organic matter (like compost or well-rotted manure) to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

4. Watering & Feeding

• Water regularly, especially during dry spells and when fruits are forming.
• Use tomato feed to encourage flowering and fruiting.
• Mulch around the base of plants to retain moisture.

5. Protect from Pests & Diseases

• Use netting to keep birds off soft fruits like strawberries and cherries.
•  Plant companion plants like marigolds to deter aphids.
•  Keep an eye out for diseases like powdery mildew and use organic sprays if necessary.

6. Prune & Train Properly

•  Winter prune apple and pear trees to encourage strong growth.
• Summer prune plums, cherries, and trained forms like espaliers or cordons.
• Train fruit trees against walls or fences to save space and boost yields.

7. Consider Growing in Containers

• Perfect for patios and small gardens.
• Great for tender fruits like lemons, figs, and blueberries (which prefer acidic soil).
• Ensure pots are large enough and provide good drainage.

8. Extend the Growing Season

• Use cloches, cold frames, or greenhouses to protect early crops.
• Grow strawberries under cover for an earlier harvest.

With our top tips, you can add healthy, home-grown sweet treats to your planting list this Spring!