Description
Book SynopsisThe Fruit Tree Handbook is a clear, practical guide for both amateur and expert, conveying a deep respect for the natural world and showing how to cultivate healthy trees through good management. Apples, pears, plums, cherries, apricots, peaches and nectarines, as well as less common fruits such as mulberries, medlars and figs, are covered in detail, with recommended varieties of each. The Fruit Tree Handbook describes all the pest and disease problems you may encounter and advises on how to deal with them organically. It also reveals all you need to know about choosing rootstocks and suitable varieties for your needs, and illuminates the mysteries of pruning with step-by-step instructions and detailed diagrams. Whether you are planting a few trees in your garden or 50 trees in a field, this book provides the expert guidance you need to look after your trees – and be rewarded with basketfuls of luscious fruit at harvest time.
Trade ReviewA comprehensive, practical book... [to] help you choose your fruit trees and rootstocks, situate your orchard, prune your trees and keep them healthy. It is bursting with well-illustrated guidance, generously given from someone who knows orchards and cares about the wildlife that they can support. * Sue Clifford & Angela King - Common Ground *
A really well-organised, approachable yet thorough guide to sourcing, planting and caring for fruit trees. It's a must for anyone considering anything from a couple of trees to an orchard. * Mark Diacono - River Cottage Head Gardener *
If you’ve ever thought about turning an unproductive grassy area into an orchard and then quietly filed it away under 'wouldn't know where to start', it may be time for a rethink... a well-written specialist book like this one is a welcome addition to my bookshelf. * The Ecologist - October 2011 *
No matter how small your garden, if you want to grow fruit, this guide will help you on your way with excellent photos and clear diagrams. * Dobies of Devon *
Whether you are planting a few trees in your garden or 50 trees in a field, you will find all you need to know to design and manage your own orchard. * Devon Country Gardener *
At last! A book about growing fruit with an organic approach, written for British conditions and with home fruit growers rather than professionals in mind. * Patrick Whitefield - Permaculture Magazine *
An excellent book. Full of all sorts of useful information for lovers of fruit trees, from, lovely pictures and clear illustrations. It is beautifully laid out, simple to follow and good and accurate to read. * Dorset Cider Blog *
Brilliant work, beautifully presented. * Allotment Blog *
Table of ContentsIntroduction
PART ONE: Preparation, planning and planting The site of your orchard Rootstocks Pollination, flowering and fruit development Choosing fruit trees Planning your orchard Buying and planting trees
PART TWO: Fruit tree management Caring for your trees Pruning fruit trees Problems of fruit trees
PART THREE: The fruits Apples Pears Plums Cherries Peaches and nectarines Apricots Other fruits
PART FOUR: Traditional orchards Restoring a neglected orchard Community orchards Glossary Appendices Resources
