Pomona Fruits’ Top Tips for Summer Growing

Seasonality is perhaps the best thing about growing plants in the UK. People from the tropics are usually delighted by the distinct character of temperate weather patterns. From a gardener’s point of view, the seasons provide a clear framework on which to base essential tasks that help you get the best out of your fruit trees.

Climate – the big picture
How your garden fares in every month will largely depend on its location. This is the most important factor influencing the varieties you’re likely to succeed with. Just as tropical latitudes contain more plant species than their temperate counterparts, those of you who live in the colder north of the UK will probably be more successful if you restrict your efforts to cool climate tree fruit like cherries, apples, plums and pears. You’re likely to find it easier to cultivate crops such as apricots, peaches and nectarines that suit warmer conditions if you’re based in the south, south east or south west of England.

However, this is a very general rule of thumb, as growing conditions are influenced by a multitude of other factors such as height above sea level and rainfall. Furthermore, every outdoor space has its microclimate, and the truly canny gardener quickly learns how to exploit them. Look carefully and it’s probable that you will find exactly the right variety to thrive in your particular site.

Summer- first fruits
This is perhaps the most exciting time in the growing year, when the crop you’ve been dreaming of starts to become a reality. You may even begin to enjoy the first rewards from your efforts if you have opted for early-season varieties. However, summer in the UK can occasionally be hot enough to cause your hard-working trees to dry out. Your most important duty is to make sure that they are kept well-hydrated.

Your second priority should be to thin out any diseased or grossly misshapen fruits, in order to give the best ones a chance of growing to a decent size. Remember that you are not the only one anticipating your yields – protect your crop from voracious birds, and check plants regularly for signs of insect pests or diseases.

For more information visit www.pomonafruits.co.uk

Share this article