SOLD OUT FOR SPRING 2012, YOU MAY ORDER FOR AUTUMN 2012 DELIVERY
Dwarf Scrumptious, rootstock dwarf M27, pollinator group C3 although self fertile, bare root. This is a maiden tree which means that it has a strong 'leader' (central branch/trunk) which grows up through the centre of the young tree.
This new variety is something very special, with its wonderful complexity of flavours, crisp, sweet and aromatic. It has been carefully bred for all UK garden conditions. Self-fertile, disease resistant, good pollinator and produces heavy crops of truly scrumptious red apples, even on young trees. As it is thin skinned it is ideal for young children.
We think that the smallest container or planter you
should use is 45cm in diameter and depth to start off with and then re-pot in a
couple of years to about 50cm. Think about good drainage (pot feet for example)
for the winter as fruit trees in containers could get soggy, but just as
important think about some form of water conservation for the summer. Dwarf
fruit trees need regular watering, so things like pebbles over mulch or
newspaper are a good way of keeping the water in the planter and avoiding
evaporation.
Where to place your tree?
Dwarf fruit trees will always grow and crop better
in the ground because they can access more water and nutrients. However, with
attention you can grow and crop a very successful and satisfying
tree. Once mature your Dwarf Scrumptious Apple tree will be: 1.3-1.8m tall with
a spread of 1.2-1.5m (4-5ft), so you'll need to think about the shade this will
cast and also to make sure that you leave enough space for the branches to grow
well. If you are limited in spread, you might want to consider creating a
cordon or espalier (click here for
more info on this). With these methods you train the tree into
specific shapes by reducing the number of branches. Full sun and sheltered
if possible, but this tree is happy in colder locations.
How to make sure you have fruit
In the first instance treat your tree well and
follow the instructions available on the card or online. In the first growing
season rub the fruit off, it is heart breaking, but it will allow the tree to
keep the energy it would have used and will make it both stronger and more
likely to give good crops in subsequent years. This variety is suitable for colder areas and is more resistant to frost.
Pollination, is important but can get overly
complicated. In most suburban areas there will be enough pollen in the air due
to the proximity of other gardens. It is not always necessary to have
pollinators if the bees and other pollinating insects are generous with their
visits (see herbs and flowers for colourful edible plants to attract them).
However if you are concerned, we have labelled our trees C1 through C5. This
code is based upon the flowering time of that variety. To choose a pollinator
partner choose another tree of either the same or of 1 more or 1 less. It is
better not to plant around the base of the tree as it does not like the
competition, you could however use pot toppers, coloured gravel or plant herbs
in pots and sink into the compost around the tree if you'd like to dress it.
All of our trees are grown in the UK (Midlands) to
the highest standards, and extra advice is always available if you'd like it.
Image is for illustration only.