Using Fruit Trees In A Small Garden
Almost monthly we find that we are being presented with a new diet or exercise plan designed to make us change the way in which we lead our lives. It is true that we all need to examine our current behaviour with a view to eating more fresh fruit and vegetables and taking more regular exercise. One thing we may wish to consider is growing a few fruit trees in our backyard. However, as most backyards are only small spaces, it is likely that you may be somewhat restricted.
As we gain a better understanding of what is good or bad for us many of us are choosing to purchase organically grown fruit and vegetables. Unfortunately this means that we often have to pay a premium price for the produce and the difference in cost can be very large. By growing our own fruit trees organically be can make considerable cost savings but we also benefit from the most fresh fruit possible. Fresh organic fruit not only tastes better but it also has more vitamins and minerals than non-organic stored fruit.
Most of us live in an urban environment where it is common to have backyards which offer only a very small space in which to create a garden. Such backyards are unsuitable for large mature trees which can be the cause of many problems. The roots can damage foundations, branches can push against walls and windows and they also block light. The most obvious problem is that such a large item in a small space will simply look ridiculous.
It is surprising what can be created in such a small space as an urban backyard. Professional garden designers can create truly spectacular gardens in the smallest possible space. However, if you can not afford professional services it is perfectly possible to design a garden yourself. To create a suitable design you will need to spend a little time investigating which plants will be most suitable for use in small spaces.
Even in the smallest space it is possible to design a garden that has a few fruit trees. A fruit tree can add great beauty in any garden and can act as a focal point. Throughout the year a fruit tree will change and at each season the tree will looks incredible. In spring a fruit tree will produce masses of blossom which, when fertilized, will develop into small fruits. During the summer the fruit will grow until ripe and by fall they will be ready for harvest.
In recent decades there have been a number of advances in the creation of dwarf fruit tree varieties. A dwarf tree is created by grafting the main stem of the tree into a dwarf root stock which severely limits the growth. At one time the use of a dwarf root stock called M27 was popular but now M9 is used instead. M9 has two distinct advantages. Firstly M9 is far more reliable than M27 but it manages to create a tree which is smaller but produces more fruit.
Modern compact fruit trees can be used in small backyards as the dwarf variety produces a large amount of fruit from the smallest of bushes. A dwarf fruit tree will rarely be larger than 1.8m high but the growth can be limited still further by planting it in a container. By following an annual pruning regime you can restrict the growth while retaining a suitable shape.
Amongst the most useful of fruit trees for the gardener with only a small space for a backyard, is the spur apple tree. While the tree can still grow up to 1.8m high it has such an upright habit that it often looks rather strange covered in a multitude of ripened apples.
You are not just limited to dwarf fruit trees, no, there are a large number of different fruits available in dwarf varieties such as pears, peaches, nectarines, figs, cherries, Kiwi fruit, plums and hazelnuts.
Tags: Trees and Shrubs