We would like to use what we call the long paddock, which goes down along one edge of the bridge and then down a hill towards the boundary of the property in the northwest. This has a good aspect and will provide an interesting food forest foundation by allowing us to have winding tracks for exploration and access. The prevailing wind tends to come from the westerly direction, so we will need to watch for the cold chill of this westerly breeze, but with the close proximity of the native forest, we might find that there is some shelter from the wind in some areas.
The area is about 3.5 to 4 acres.
Tree selection is still under consideration. We would like Apples, Stone Fruits, Walnuts, and Almonds. There is a very well-established chestnut tree here already, maybe 40 years old, that produces a bountiful harvest.
Relevant Permaculture Principles
All permaculture principles inform all aspect of the permaculture design and operations—these more so than others.
Ensure that you are getting truly useful rewards as part of the work that you are doing.
By stepping back, we can observe patterns in nature and society. These can form the backbone of our designs, with the details filled in as we go.
By putting the right things in the right place, relationships develop between them and they support each other.
The interface between things is where the most interesting events take place. These are often the most valuable, diverse and productive elements in the system.
Live simply so others may simply live - living within limits and distribute the surplus.
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Companion Plants
White Clover (Trifolium) is a low-growing plant, reaching heights of 10–20 cm, that excels in cool temperate climates. As a nitrogen fixer, it provides ecological benefits such as moisture retention, weed suppression, and support for pollinators, making it an excellent groundcover for orchards and sunny clearings.
Birdsfoot Trefoil is a nitrogen-fixing perennial that serves as an effective groundcover and living mulch, thriving in poor, compacted soils and drought conditions. It grows to a height of 20–40 cm and is particularly suitable for cool temperate climates, making it ideal for planting under various trees and on slopes for erosion control.
Lupin is a tall herbaceous plant, reaching heights of 1 to 1.5 meters, known for its ability to fix nitrogen and improve soil drainage with its deep taproot. It thrives in cool temperate climates and is particularly beneficial for enriching compacted clay soils, making it an excellent companion for various fruit trees like apples and pears.
Comfrey (Bocking 14) is a dynamic accumulator plant that can grow between 60 to 100 cm tall. It enhances soil health by rapidly building humus, attracting pollinators, and providing excellent mulch while being highly suitable for cool temperate climates.
Garlic (Allium) is an aromatic herb that grows 30–60 cm tall and is highly suitable for cool temperate climates. It serves multiple ecological functions, including pest deterrence and soil pathogen suppression, while thriving in light, airy soil, making it ideal for planting around fruit trees such as apples and pears.
Chives (Allium) are aromatic herbs that grow to a height of 25–40 cm and thrive in cool temperate climates. They serve as effective pest deterrents, anti-fungal companions, and provide edible leaves and flowers, making them an excellent addition to gardens, especially near fruit trees like apples and pears.
Lemon Balm (Melissa) is a herbaceous plant that grows between 40 to 80 cm tall and is highly suitable for cool temperate climates. It serves various ecological functions, such as attracting pollinators and deterring pests, and is best placed under fruit trees or along shaded paths. This aromatic plant pairs well with apple, pear, and plum trees, enhancing biodiversity in gardens.
Thyme (Thymus) is a resilient, aromatic herb that grows between 5 and 30 cm in height, thriving in sunny, dry areas of cool temperate climates. It serves multiple ecological functions, including pest deterrence and attracting beneficial insects, making it an ideal groundcover for orchards, especially around stone fruits like figs and almonds.
Lavender (Lavandula) is a drought-tolerant shrub that thrives in cool temperate climates, reaching heights of 40–100 cm. It serves ecological functions such as attracting beneficial insects and deterring pests, making it ideal for sunny spots in gardens and orchards. Best paired with fruit trees like figs and citrus, it prefers well-drained soil and sunny locations.
Calendula is a herbaceous plant that grows 30–45 cm tall and thrives in cool temperate climates. It serves as an insectary, deterring mild pests and attracting pollinators, with a long flowering period and self-seeding capabilities, making it ideal for stable groundcover. Best placed under fruit trees and along sunny borders, it pairs well with various fruits like apples, pears, and plums.
Dill (Anethum) is a tall umbellifer that grows between 60 to 120 cm and thrives in cool temperate climates. It functions as an insectary, attracting beneficial insects while also providing culinary and medicinal uses. Best placed under fruit trees or sunny gaps between perennials, it self-seeds and enhances biodiversity in the garden.
Fennel (Foeniculum) is a tall herbaceous plant that grows 1.5–2.5 meters high and functions as a massive insectary, attracting beneficial insects like parasitic wasps and hoverflies. It thrives in cool temperate climates, has edible foliage and seeds, and is best placed in sunny areas away from crop trunks to minimize allelopathy. Fennel pairs well with various fruit trees, including pears and plums.
Sweet Alyssum is a low-growing groundcover plant, reaching heights of 10–20 cm, and is highly suitable for cool temperate climates. It serves multiple ecological functions, including acting as an insectary for beneficial hoverflies, providing living mulch, and suppressing weeds. This plant thrives in sunny areas and is ideal for placement around berry shrubs and young trees.
Nasturtium (Tropaeolum) is a versatile plant that grows between 30 to 60 cm in height and can trail up to 2 m. It serves as a trap crop for pests, has edible leaves and flowers, suppresses weeds, and attracts beneficial insects, making it ideal for a cool temperate climate with high rainfall.
Strawberries (Fragaria) are groundcover plants that typically reach a height of 10–20 cm. They thrive in cool temperate climates and offer ecological benefits such as excellent weed suppression, soil protection, and support for pollinators, while also producing a small edible yield.
Chamomile is a herbaceous plant that grows 15–40 cm tall and thrives in cool temperate climates. It serves as an insectary, supports plant health, and has soothing medicinal properties, making it ideal for sunny areas and pathways. Best placed under fruit trees and in clusters, it pairs well with various fruits like apples and cherries.
Lemon Verbena (Aloysia) is a small tree that thrives in cool temperate climates, growing to a height of 2–3 meters. It serves multiple ecological functions, such as deterring pests and attracting beneficial insects like butterflies and bees, while also providing aromatic fragrance along pathways and seating areas. This plant pairs well with various fruits, including apples, pears, and citrus, and prefers well-drained, sunny locations while avoiding frost pockets.
Sweet Woodruff is a shade-loving groundcover that thrives in cool temperate climates, reaching heights of 10–20 cm. It effectively suppresses weeds, stabilizes humus-rich soils, and attracts pollinators when in bloom, making it ideal for forest edges and shaded areas under trees like walnuts and chestnuts.
Marigold is a robust annual plant, growing between 20 to 90 cm, known for its powerful pest deterrent properties against nematodes, beetles, and aphids. It's an excellent choice for enhancing fruit tree guilds and can thrive in cool temperate climates, making it a reliable addition to gardens and orchards.
Bee Balm is a tall herbaceous plant, reaching heights of 80–150 cm, known for its superb insectary capabilities, attracting bees and hummingbirds. It thrives in cool temperate climates with moist soils and is best placed in partial shade or morning sun, often found near water lines or under fruit trees to enhance airflow and insect support.
New Zealand Spinach is a low-growing, creeping plant that reaches heights of 10–20 cm. It is an edible groundcover known for its salt and drought tolerance, making it ideal for erosion-prone slopes and poor soils. This plant thrives in sunny locations and pairs well with various fruit trees, including feijoa and citrus.
Lemon Thyme is a groundcover plant that thrives in sunny, dry areas, reaching heights of 10–25 cm. It serves multiple ecological functions, including deterring pests, attracting bees, and providing an aromatic, edible groundcover, making it a great addition to cool temperate orchards.
Creeping Thyme is a low-growing groundcover, reaching heights of 5–10 cm, known for its aromatic properties and ability to deter pests. It thrives in sunny areas and is drought-tolerant, making it ideal for cool temperate climates. This plant effectively suppresses weeds and stabilizes pathways while pairing well with various fruit trees and vines.
Sorrel is a hardy perennial herb that grows 20–45 cm tall and functions as a dynamic accumulator of nutrients like iron and potassium. It thrives in cool temperate climates and is best placed under fruit trees or in moist, shaded areas, making it an excellent companion for plants like apples, pears, and plums.
Subterranean Clover is a low-growing groundcover that reaches heights of 5–15 cm and serves as an excellent nitrogen fixer. It thrives in sunny, open areas and can be self-seeding, making it a strong living mulch that is drought-tolerant once established. This plant pairs well with various fruit trees, including almonds and figs, and is particularly suitable for cool temperate climates.
Nut Tree Selections
Highest Suitability
Hazelnut (Corylus avellana)
- Description: Hazelnut trees are medium-sized deciduous trees that grow to about 3-8 meters in height. They have broad, heart-shaped leaves with a serrated edge. The nuts are produced in clusters, each encased in a fibrous husk that splits open when the nuts are ripe. Hazelnuts are small, round to oval, with a hard, smooth shell and a sweet, creamy kernel inside. They are highly valued for their rich flavor and are used in a variety of culinary applications, including baking, confectionery, and oil production.
- Companions: Clover, comfrey, lemon balm, yarrow.
- Preparation: Choose a sunny spot with well-drained soil. Add organic matter to improve soil structure.
- Planting: Space trees 4-5 meters apart. Plant in early spring or autumn.
- Pruning: Prune in late winter to remove dead or crossing branches and to shape the tree.
- Other Suggestions: Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Hall's Giant, Bolwyer is a hazelnut cultivar that produces large nuts and thrives in cool temperate climates. It requires pollination from other varieties such as Barcelona, Royal, or Daviana, and is categorized as a small tree in the sub-canopy forest layer.
Daviana is a hazelnut cultivar known for its long nuts and excellent pollination capabilities. It is effectively pollinated by varieties such as Barcelona or Hall's Giant, making it a valuable addition to any food forest in cool temperate climates.
The Barcelona hazelnut cultivar is a slow-growing tree known for producing high-quality nuts, making it one of the best varieties available. It thrives in cool temperate climates and requires pollinators such as Du Chilly, Royal, and Daviana for optimal nut production.
The Cosford hazelnut cultivar is a small shrub that begins producing hardy catkins at just two years of age. It yields moderate-sized nuts with a flavorful kernel, although these nuts may shrivel during storage. This plant is highly suitable for cool temperate climates.
The White Lambert hazelnut cultivar is one of the oldest varieties, originating from southern Europe or North Africa. It is a moderately vigorous shrub that produces fairly large nuts with a thin, soft shell and a sweet, easily separable kernel. This cultivar yields consistently and has good storage capabilities.
The Red Lambert is a hazelnut cultivar similar to the White Lambert, known for its high suitability to cool temperate climates. It is also recognized as a good variety for cross-pollination, enhancing productivity.
Chestnut (Castanea sativa)
- Description: The chestnut tree is a large, deciduous tree that can reach up to 30 meters in height. It has large, toothed leaves and produces spiky burs that contain one to three shiny, brown nuts. Chestnuts are unique among nuts for their high starch content and sweet, nutty flavor. They can be eaten raw, roasted, or used in a variety of dishes, both sweet and savory. Chestnut trees are also valued for their wood, which is used in furniture and construction.
- Companions: Clover, comfrey, garlic, yarrow.
- Preparation: Select a site with well-drained, slightly acidic soil. Amend with compost.
- Planting: Space trees 9-12 meters apart. Plant in early spring or autumn.
- Pruning: Minimal pruning needed. Remove any dead or diseased branches.
- Other Suggestions: Protect young trees from frost and wind. Ensure good air circulation.
Castanea mollissima, commonly known as the Chinese chestnut, is a tree that reaches about 20 meters in height. It produces sweeter nuts compared to the European chestnut and exhibits high resistance to the root fungus Phytophthora spp, which poses a significant threat to European chestnuts.
Castanea crenata, commonly known as the Japanese chestnut, is a smaller tree that thrives in cool temperate climates and coppices effectively. It has been bred to produce high yields of quality nuts, making it a valuable species for nut production.
Castanea sativa, commonly known as the Spanish or sweet chestnut, is a large tree that can grow up to 35 meters tall. It produces substantial nut yields, reaching up to 5,000 kg per hectare, and its nuts can be consumed fresh or cooked. The tree is valued for its durable timber in Europe, although old growth wood is primarily used for firewood.
Walnuts
Walnut trees generally take several years before they begin to produce nuts. Here are the typical timelines for different walnut species:
- Juglans regia (Persian or English walnut): Typically begins producing nuts after 4-7 years.
- Juglans nigra (Eastern black walnut): Generally takes 10-12 years to start producing nuts.
- Juglans hindsii (North Californian walnut): Can start producing nuts in about 7-10 years.
- Juglans australis (Argentine walnut): Similar to the Persian walnut, it can start producing nuts in around 4-7 years.
Keep in mind that these timelines can vary based on factors such as tree care, soil quality, climate conditions, and whether the tree was grown from seed or a grafted sapling. Grafted trees often produce nuts earlier than seed-grown trees.
White walnut - Butternut (Juglans cinerea)
- Description: The butternut tree, also known as white walnut, is a medium-sized deciduous tree that typically grows to about 12-18 meters tall. It has compound leaves with 11-17 leaflets and produces elongated, sticky, green-husked fruits that contain an edible nut. The nuts are rich and oily with a buttery flavor, commonly used in baking and cooking. Butternut trees also have attractive wood that is often used in furniture and woodworking.
- Companions: Clover, comfrey, garlic, yarrow.
- Preparation: Choose a site with well-drained, deep soil. Incorporate organic matter.
- Planting: Space trees 12-15 meters apart. Plant in early spring or autumn.
- Pruning: Prune in late winter to remove dead or damaged branches.
- Other Suggestions: Mulch to conserve moisture and control weeds. Protect from rodents.
Heartnut (Juglans ailantifolia var. cordiformis)
- Description: The heartnut tree is a variant of the Japanese walnut, known for its heart-shaped nuts. It is a medium-sized deciduous tree, growing up to 15 meters tall with compound leaves that have 11-19 leaflets. The nuts are encased in a green husk that splits open when mature, revealing a smooth, thin shell that is easier to crack than other walnut species. The kernels have a mild, sweet flavor and are used similarly to other walnuts in baking and cooking.
- Companions: Clover, comfrey, marigold, tansy.
- Preparation: Select a site with well-drained, fertile soil. Add organic matter if needed.
- Planting: Space trees 10-15 meters apart. Plant in early spring or autumn.
- Pruning: Prune in late winter to maintain shape and remove any dead wood.
- Other Suggestions: Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot. Protect from late frosts.
Walnut (Juglans regia)
- Description: The English walnut tree is a large, deciduous tree that can grow up to 25-35 meters tall. It has pinnate leaves with 5-9 leaflets and produces round nuts encased in a green, fleshy husk that turns brown and splits open as the nuts mature. The walnuts have a hard shell with a rich, flavorful kernel inside, commonly used in baking, cooking, and as a nutritious snack. Walnut wood is also highly valued for its quality and is used in high-end furniture and cabinetry.
- Companions: Clover, comfrey, garlic, yarrow.
- Preparation: Select a site with deep, well-drained soil. Incorporate organic matter.
- Planting: Space trees 12-18 meters apart. Plant in early spring or autumn.
- Pruning: Prune in late winter to remove dead or crossing branches.
- Other Suggestions: Mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds. Protect from late frosts.
Juglans regia, commonly known as Persian or English walnut, is a large deciduous tree that can grow up to 25-35 meters tall, producing round nuts encased in a green husk. It thrives in cool temperate climates and begins yielding nuts after 4-7 years, making it a popular choice for its high-quality, flavorful nuts and valuable timber.
Juglans cinerea, commonly known as butternut or white walnut, is a medium-sized deciduous tree that grows 12-18 meters tall and produces rich, buttery-flavored nuts after 7-10 years. It features compound leaves with 11-17 leaflets and has attractive wood often used in furniture. This tree thrives in cool temperate climates and prefers well-drained, deep soil for optimal growth.
Juglans nigra, commonly known as the eastern black walnut, is a large, fast-growing tree native to North America, reaching heights of up to 33 meters. It produces valuable timber and unique nuts that retain their flavor when cooked, while also offering various medicinal uses from its bark and leaves.
Juglans ailantifolia var. cordiformis, commonly known as heartnut, is a medium-sized deciduous tree that can grow up to 15 meters tall. It produces heart-shaped nuts encased in a green husk, which are easier to crack than other walnuts and have a mild, sweet flavor. This tree thrives in cool temperate climates and typically begins nut production in about 4-7 years.
Hickory (Carya ovata)
- Description: The shagbark hickory is a tall, deciduous tree reaching up to 30 meters in height, known for its distinctive peeling bark. It produces large, compound leaves with five to seven leaflets and bears hard-shelled nuts that are enclosed in a thick, green husk. The nuts have a rich, buttery flavor and are prized for their culinary uses, especially in baking and as a snack. Hickory wood is also highly valued for its strength and is commonly used in tool handles and furniture.
- Companions: Clover, comfrey, garlic, yarrow.
- Preparation: Choose a sunny site with well-drained soil. Amend with compost.
- Planting: Space trees 12-15 meters apart. Plant in early spring or autumn.
- Pruning: Prune in winter to remove dead or damaged branches.
- Other Suggestions: Mulch to retain moisture. Protect young trees from strong winds.
The shagbark hickory (Carya ovata) is a tall, deciduous tree known for its distinctive peeling bark and large compound leaves. It produces flavorful nuts that are popular in culinary uses, and its strong wood is valued for tool handles and furniture. Ideal for cool temperate climates, it thrives in sunny locations with well-drained soil.
High Suitability
Pecan (Carya illinoinensis)
- Description: The pecan tree is a large, deciduous tree that can reach heights of 20-40 meters, known for its long lifespan and towering presence. It has pinnate leaves with 9-17 leaflets and produces clusters of oblong, thin-shelled nuts encased in a green husk that turns brown as it matures. Pecans have a rich, buttery flavor and are a favorite ingredient in pies, confections, and as a snack. The wood of the pecan tree is also prized for its hardness and is used in furniture and flooring.
- Companions: Clover, comfrey, marigold, tansy.
- Preparation: Choose a site with deep, well-drained soil. Amend with organic matter.
- Planting: Space trees 12-18 meters apart. Plant in early spring.
- Pruning: Prune in late winter to remove dead or weak branches.
- Other Suggestions: Mulch to retain moisture. Protect young trees from frost and wind.
The Stuart pecan cultivar is a vigorous tree that takes time to begin producing nuts, typically starting mid-season with average-sized nuts. It has a growing season of 180 to 200 days and is well-suited for cool temperate climates. Pollinators for this variety include Cherokee, Moore, and Cheyenne.
The Success pecan cultivar is an old variety characterized by moderately vigorous growth and a mid-season harvest. It produces large nuts, though they are often poorly filled, and has a growing season of 200 to 210 days. This cultivar is susceptible to disease and is best pollinated by Candy, Chickasaw, or Shoshoni varieties.
The Desirable pecan cultivar is an old variety known for its open, spreading form and high suitability to cool temperate climates. It produces fairly large, attractive nuts with good flavor and serves as an excellent early pollinizer.
Fruit Tree Selections
Highest Suitability
Apple (Malus domestica)
- Description: The apple tree is a small to medium-sized deciduous tree, typically growing 4-12 meters in height. It has broad, oval leaves and produces fragrant, white to pink flowers in the spring. The fruit is round and can vary in size, color, and taste, ranging from sweet to tart. Apples are one of the most widely cultivated fruits and are used fresh, in cooking, baking, and for making cider. They are rich in vitamins and fiber, making them a popular and nutritious snack.
- Companions: Comfrey, chamomile, nasturtium, yarrow.
- Preparation: Select a sunny site with well-drained soil. Amend with compost.
- Planting: Space trees 3-4 meters apart (dwarf) or 6-8 meters apart (standard). Plant in early spring or autumn.
- Pruning: Prune in late winter or early spring to shape the tree and remove dead or diseased wood.
- Other Suggestions: Mulch to conserve moisture. Use tree guards to protect from pests.
Granny Smith (Malus domestica) is a vigorous apple variety known for its bright green skin and tart flavor, making it ideal for both fresh consumption and cooking. It thrives in cool to temperate climates and prefers well-drained, fertile loamy soils. This variety is also beneficial as a pollinator for other apple types.
The Fuji apple, a variety of Malus domestica, is known for its large size, crisp texture, and sweet flavor. Originally from Japan, it thrives in cool temperate climates and prefers well-drained, fertile loam soils. Fuji apples are versatile for eating raw, baking, and have a long shelf life.
The Gala apple (Malus domestica) is a small to medium-sized fruit known for its thin, tender skin, typically red with yellow stripes. It thrives in cool to temperate climates and prefers well-drained loamy soils, offering a sweet and aromatic flavor with a fine, crisp texture, making it perfect for fresh eating and salads.
Honeycrisp apples, scientifically known as Malus domestica, thrive in cool temperate climates and are characterized by their large size, crisp texture, and juicy, sweet-tart flavor. With a striking red and yellow skin, they are excellent for fresh eating, salads, and cooking, and are also known for their impressive storage capabilities.
The Golden Delicious apple (Malus domestica) is a medium to large fruit with a pale golden-yellow skin, known for its sweet flavor and crisp texture. It thrives in cool to temperate climates and prefers well-drained, fertile loam soils. This versatile apple is great for fresh eating, baking, and salads, and also aids in pollinating other apple varieties.
The Jonathan apple, belonging to the Malus genus, thrives in cool to temperate climates and prefers well-drained, fertile soils. Known for its medium size and bright red skin, it offers a sweet-tart flavor with a crisp, juicy texture, making it versatile for fresh eating, baking, and cider production.
Pink Lady apples (Malus domestica) are medium to large fruits known for their distinctive pink skin and sweet-tart flavor. They thrive in cool temperate climates and prefer well-drained, loamy soils rich in organic matter, making them ideal for fresh eating, baking, and salads due to their crispness and long storage life.
Braeburn apples, a variety of Malus domestica, are medium to large fruits with a striking red-orange skin over a yellow background. They thrive in cool to temperate climates and prefer well-drained, fertile soils, offering a balanced sweet-tart flavor that makes them versatile for fresh eating, cooking, and baking.
Pear (Pyrus communis)
- Description: The European pear tree is a medium-sized deciduous tree that can grow up to 10-17 meters tall. It has glossy, oval leaves and produces white flowers in clusters during the spring. The fruit is typically elongated with a smooth, thin skin that can range in color from green to yellow, red, or brown. Pears have a sweet, juicy flesh and are commonly eaten fresh, canned, or used in desserts and salads. They are also valued for their high dietary fiber content.
- Companions: Clover, dill, fennel, lemon balm.
- Preparation: Choose a sunny site with well-drained soil. Incorporate organic matter.
- Planting: Space trees 3-4 meters apart (dwarf) or 6-8 meters apart (standard). Plant in early spring or autumn.
- Pruning: Prune in winter to shape the tree and remove dead or crossing branches.
- Other Suggestions: Mulch to retain moisture. Protect from wind and frost.
Forelle pears (Pyrus communis) are small to medium-sized fruits known for their distinctive red blush on greenish-yellow skin. They thrive in cool to temperate climates and prefer well-drained, fertile loam soils, making them excellent for fresh eating and salads.
The Seckel pear (Pyrus communis) is a small, sweet, and spicy fruit with russeted skin, thriving in cool temperate climates. It prefers well-drained, fertile soils and is ideal for fresh eating, pickling, and canning. Seckel trees are hardy and productive, making them well-suited for colder regions.
The Concorde pear (Pyrus communis) is a medium to large fruit with a smooth green skin and a sweet, vanilla-like flavor. It thrives in cool temperate climates and prefers well-drained, loamy soils. Known for its reliability and quality yields, the Concorde tree is ideal for fresh eating, baking, and poaching.
The Red Bartlett (Pyrus communis) is a mutation of the traditional Bartlett pear, known for its bright red skin and sweet, juicy flesh. It thrives in cool temperate climates and well-drained loamy soils, making it suitable for both fresh consumption and cooking.
The Anjou pear (Pyrus communis) is a vigorous fruit tree known for its squat shape and smooth green skin that remains green even when ripe. It thrives in cool temperate climates and prefers well-drained loamy soils, producing firm, juicy, and sweet pears ideal for fresh eating and baking.
The Comice pear (Pyrus communis) is a large, round fruit known for its exceptional sweetness and buttery texture, making it ideal for fresh eating and desserts. It thrives in cool to temperate climates and prefers well-drained, fertile loam soils. Originating in France, Comice trees are less vigorous but produce high-quality fruit well-suited for cooler conditions.
Bosc pears (Pyrus communis) are characterized by their long, tapering neck and russeted brown skin, with dense and aromatic flesh that offers a sweet, spicy flavor. They thrive in cool to temperate climates and prefer well-drained, fertile loam soils, making them excellent for fresh eating, baking, and poaching.
The Bartlett pear (Pyrus communis) is a popular variety known for its bell-shaped fruit with smooth, yellow skin that ripens to a golden hue. It thrives in cool to temperate climates and prefers well-drained loamy soils rich in organic matter. Renowned for its sweet, juicy, and aromatic flesh, it is perfect for fresh eating, canning, and cooking.
Plum (Prunus domestica)
- Description: The European plum tree is a small to medium-sized deciduous tree, usually growing 4-10 meters tall. It has oval, serrated leaves and produces white to pale pink flowers in the spring. The fruit is a drupe, varying in size and color from purple to red, yellow, or green, with a sweet or tart flavor. Plums can be eaten fresh, dried (as prunes), or used in cooking and baking. They are known for their high antioxidant content and health benefits.
- Companions: Borage, garlic, marigold, tansy.
- Preparation: Select a sunny site with well-drained soil. Add compost if needed.
- Planting: Space trees 3-5 meters apart. Plant in early spring or autumn.
- Pruning: Prune in early spring to remove dead or diseased wood and to shape the tree.
- Other Suggestions: Mulch to retain moisture. Protect from frost.
Victoria (Prunus domestica) is a highly productive plum variety known for its reddish-purple skin and sweet, juicy golden-yellow flesh. It thrives in cool temperate climates and prefers well-drained loamy soils, making it suitable for a variety of culinary uses, including fresh eating and cooking.
The Santa Rosa plum (Prunus salicina) is a vigorous fruit tree known for its dark purple to crimson skin and sweet-tart yellow to red flesh. It thrives in cool temperate climates and prefers well-drained, fertile loam soils, making it ideal for fresh eating and preserves.
The Stanley plum (Prunus domestica) is a hardy fruit tree that thrives in cool temperate climates and well-drained loamy soils. It produces large, sweet, oval-shaped fruits with dark blue to purple skin, making them ideal for fresh consumption, drying, and baking.
The Damson (Prunus domestica) is a hardy fruit tree that thrives in cool temperate climates and prefers well-drained, fertile loam soils. Its small, dark blue to purple plums have a tart flavor, making them ideal for jams and cooking. With high disease resistance, Damson trees are both productive and suitable for cooler regions.
Greengage (Prunus domestica) is a hardy fruit tree that thrives in cool to temperate climates, producing small to medium-sized plums with a sweet, aromatic green flesh. It prefers well-drained loamy soils and is excellent for fresh consumption, cooking, and preserves.
The Mirabelle (Prunus domestica) is a hardy fruit tree that thrives in cool to temperate climates, producing small, round, golden yellow plums with sweet, juicy flesh. These plums are often used for making jams, jellies, and liqueurs, and the tree prefers well-drained, fertile loam soils for optimal growth.
The Satsuma (Prunus salicina) is a vigorous plum tree known for its dark red to purple skin and sweet, juicy deep red flesh. It thrives in cool to temperate climates and prefers well-drained, fertile loamy soils, making it excellent for fresh consumption, preserves, and baking.
The Italian Prune (Prunus domestica) is a hardy tree that produces medium-sized, oval fruits with dark purple skin and sweet, firm yellow flesh. It thrives in cool temperate climates and prefers well-drained, fertile soils, making it ideal for fresh eating, drying into prunes, and baking.
Cherry (Prunus avium)
- Description: The sweet cherry tree is a medium-sized deciduous tree that typically grows 10-15 meters tall. It has serrated, oval leaves and produces clusters of white flowers in the spring. The fruit is small, round, and typically red or yellow, with a sweet, juicy flesh. Cherries are commonly eaten fresh, used in desserts, preserves, and as a garnish. They are rich in vitamins and antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties.
- Companions: Chives, dandelion, lemon balm, marigold.
- Preparation: Choose a sunny site with well-drained soil. Incorporate organic matter.
- Planting: Space trees 4-6 meters apart. Plant in early spring or autumn.
- Pruning: Prune in late winter to early spring to remove dead or crossing branches.
- Other Suggestions: Mulch to retain moisture. Use bird netting to protect fruit.
Sunburst Cherry (Prunus avium ‘Sunburst’) is a resilient cherry variety ideal for cool temperate climates, known for its cold tolerance and high-quality, self-fertile fruit. It produces large, glossy, dark-red cherries with sweet flesh and is particularly resistant to cracking, making it suitable for areas with variable spring weather.
Stella is a self-fertile cherry cultivar known for its reliable cropping and cold tolerance, making it ideal for cool, high-rainfall climates. It produces medium-sized, dark-red cherries with a rich sweetness and is also an excellent pollinator for other cherry varieties. The tree thrives in well-drained soils but can adapt to clay soils with proper planting techniques.
The Lapins cherry (Prunus avium ‘Lapins’) is a self-fertile sweet cherry cultivar ideal for cool-temperate climates, particularly in areas with high rainfall. It produces large dark-red fruit with sweet, firm flesh, and thrives well in well-drained loam or improved clay soil while benefiting from a diverse support guild that enhances soil structure and attracts pollinators.
The Black Tartarian (Prunus avium) is a vigorous cherry tree known for its medium to large dark purple to black fruits that are sweet and juicy, making them ideal for fresh consumption and preserves. It thrives in cool to temperate climates and prefers well-drained loamy soils rich in fertility. Additionally, this variety is often used as a pollinator for other sweet cherry types.
The Morello cherry (Prunus cerasus) is a hardy sour cherry variety known for its dark red to nearly black skin and tart, juicy flesh. It thrives in cool to temperate climates and prefers well-drained, fertile loam soils, making it ideal for baking, preserves, and juices.
Sweetheart cherries (Prunus avium) are large, heart-shaped fruits with a bright red skin and firm, sweet, juicy flesh. They thrive in cool to temperate climates and prefer well-drained loamy soils. Known for their long shelf life and resistance to cracking, these self-fertile trees are vigorous and productive, making them ideal for cooler regions.
Montmorency cherries, belonging to the Prunus genus, are known for their bright red skin and tart yellow flesh, making them ideal for culinary uses like baking and preserves. They thrive in cool temperate climates and prefer well-drained, fertile loam soils, making them a hardy and productive choice for growers.
The Rainier cherry (Prunus avium) is a vigorous tree that produces large, yellow fruits with a red blush, known for their firm, sweet, and juicy flesh. It thrives in cool to temperate climates and prefers well-drained loamy soils, although the fruit is prone to cracking in cooler conditions, necessitating careful management.
Bing cherries (Prunus avium) are a popular variety known for their large, heart-shaped fruits with deep red to black skin and sweet, juicy flesh. They thrive in cool to temperate climates and prefer well-drained loamy soils, making them highly productive in regions with adequate winter chill.
High Suitability
Fig (Ficus carica)
The common fig tree is a deciduous shrub or small tree that can grow up to 3-9 meters tall. It has large, deeply lobed leaves and produces unique, pear-shaped fruits that are green, purple, or brown when ripe. The flesh is sweet and rich, with a soft, chewy texture and numerous small seeds. Figs are eaten fresh or dried and are used in baking, cooking, and preserves. They are known for their high fiber content and nutritional benefits.
- Companions: Clover, comfrey, lemon balm, marigold. (White Clover, Comfrey, Lemon Balm, Marigold, Calendula, Yarrow, Sorrel, Plantain, Creeping Thyme, Lemon Thyme, Sweet Alyssum, Nasturtium, Strawberries)
- Preparation: Choose a sunny, sheltered site with well-drained soil. Amend with compost.
- Planting: Space trees 3-5 meters apart. Plant in spring.
- Pruning: Prune in late winter to shape the tree and remove any dead wood.
- Other Suggestions: Mulch to conserve moisture. Protect from frost.
The Ficus carica, commonly known as the fig tree, is a deciduous tree that can grow between 5 to 10 meters tall and is renowned for its sweet, edible fruit. It thrives in warm temperate to subtropical climates, is frost tolerant to -10°C, and prefers well-drained, loamy soils. Figs can be consumed fresh, dried, or cooked, and the tree can live for up to 100 years, beginning to bear fruit within 2 to 3 years of planting.
The Black Mission fig (Ficus carica 'Black Mission') is a vigorous tree that thrives in warm to cool temperate climates. It produces dark purple to black figs with sweet, pinkish-red flesh, making them versatile for fresh consumption, drying, and preserves. They prefer well-drained, fertile soils and require adequate winter protection in cooler areas.
The Brown Turkey fig (Ficus carica 'Brown Turkey') is a hardy tree native to the USA, known for its productive nature and ability to thrive in cooler temperate climates. It features brownish-purple skin with sweet, amber flesh, making it ideal for fresh consumption, drying, and cooking.
Celeste (Ficus carica 'Celeste') is a hardy fig tree known for its sweet, rich amber flesh and high sugar content. It thrives in cool to warm temperate climates and prefers well-drained, fertile loamy soils. The figs are small to medium-sized with light purple to brown skin, making them a popular choice for cultivation in cooler regions.
The Kadota fig (Ficus carica 'Kadota') is a vigorous tree that thrives in warm to cool temperate climates and prefers well-drained, fertile loamy soils. This variety features greenish-yellow skin and sweet amber flesh, making it ideal for fresh consumption, canning, and preserves.
The Adriatic fig (Ficus carica 'Adriatic') is a hardy tree that thrives in warm to cool temperate climates. It features green skin and sweet, flavorful pink to red flesh, making it ideal for fresh consumption and drying. This variety prefers well-drained, loamy soils rich in organic matter and is widely grown in Mediterranean regions.
Mulberry (Morus spp.)
- Description: Mulberry trees are medium-sized, deciduous trees that can grow up to 10-15 meters tall. They have broad, lobed leaves and produce small, clustered fruits that resemble blackberries, varying in color from white to red to black. Mulberries are sweet and juicy, often eaten fresh or used in pies, jams, and wines. They are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, and have been used in traditional medicine for their health benefits.
- Companions: Comfrey, clover, lemon balm, marigold. (Red Clover, White Clover, Comfrey, Lemon Balm, Marigold, Yarrow, Sorrel, Creeping Thyme, Calendula, Sweet Alyssum, Strawberry)
- Preparation: Select a sunny site with well-drained soil. Incorporate organic matter.
- Planting: Space trees 4-6 meters apart. Plant in early spring or autumn.
- Pruning: Prune in late winter to shape the tree and remove dead or diseased branches.
- Other Suggestions: Mulch to retain moisture. Protect from frost.
Morus rubra, or red mulberry, is a hardy tree native to eastern and central United States, thriving in well-drained, fertile loamy soils. Its sweet and juicy dark red to black fruits can be eaten fresh or used in preserves and desserts, making it a versatile addition to food forests in cool temperate climates.
Morus nigra, also known as black mulberry, is a small tree native to southwestern Asia, typically reaching heights of up to 12 meters. It thrives in well-drained, fertile soils and produces sweet, juicy dark purple to black fruits that are great for fresh consumption, preserves, and baking. This hardy tree is well-suited for cool temperate climates and is valued for its timber in turnery and carving.
Morus alba, commonly known as white mulberry, is a fast-growing tree native to China, thriving in well-drained, fertile soils and suitable for cooler climates. Its sweet, juicy fruits range from white to pink to black and are often consumed fresh or used in various dishes. The tree is also valuable for livestock fodder and has numerous commercial applications, including wood for furniture and paper production.
These mulberry varieties are well-suited to cool temperate climates, offering a range of flavors and uses, from fresh eating to making preserves and baking.
Serviceberry
Serviceberry (Amelanchier spp.) is a small deciduous tree or large shrub that grows 4-10 meters tall, known for its smooth, oval leaves and clusters of white flowers in spring. It produces sweet, purple-black berries that are nutritious and versatile for culinary uses. This plant thrives in well-drained soil and suitable for cool temperate climates.
Quince (Cydonia oblonga)
The quince (Cydonia oblonga) is a small deciduous tree or large shrub that grows 3-6 meters tall, featuring broad, oval leaves and fragrant pale pink flowers in spring. Its yellow, pear-shaped fruit is typically cooked and used in jams and desserts, known for its high pectin content and rich vitamins and antioxidants.
Other Suitable Fruits
(need to assign the related support species)
The Wheeny grapefruit (Citrus × paradisi ‘Wheeny’) is a unique cultivar that thrives in cool-temperate climates, particularly in West Gippsland, Australia. It produces medium to large, pale yellow fruits that are less bitter than typical grapefruits, with a balanced sweetness and acidity. The tree is self-fertile, prefers well-drained, organic-rich soil, and benefits from companion plants that enhance soil health and deter pests.
Marsh Seedless grapefruit is a highly adaptable cultivar, thriving in cooler temperate zones with proper sunlight and care. It produces large, nearly seedless fruit with a pale yellow rind and juicy flesh, and it is self-fertile, requiring no cross-pollination for fruit set. The tree benefits from companion plants that enhance soil health and deter pests, making it ideal for creating a stable micro-ecosystem.
The Meyer lemon (Citrus × meyeri) is a semi-dwarf tree known for its ability to thrive in cool-temperate climates, producing thin-skinned, aromatic fruit that is sweeter and less acidic than standard lemons. It is self-fertile, disease-resistant, and can begin fruiting within two to three years when grafted onto hardy rootstock, making it an excellent choice for gardens in high rainfall regions.
The Eureka Frost-Hardy strain is a lemon tree variant known for its improved cold tolerance compared to standard Eureka lemons, though it still struggles in very cold, wet conditions. It produces bright yellow, aromatic fruit year-round and is best suited for warm, sunny microclimates with well-drained soils, benefiting from protection against harsh winds and support species for pest management.
The Satsuma mandarin (Citrus reticulata ‘Satsuma’) is a hardy, cold-tolerant citrus variety that thrives in cool-temperate climates. It produces seedless, sweet, and aromatic fruit that ripens reliably, even in lower temperatures, and benefits from full sun and well-drained soil.
The Imperial Mandarin (Citrus reticulata ‘Imperial’) is Australia’s earliest-ripening mandarin variety, known for its seedless fruit, easy-peel skin, and rich, sweet flavor. It thrives in cool temperate climates, prefers well-drained soils, and benefits from cross-pollination to enhance fruit size and yield.
The Divinity Apricot (Prunus armeniaca ‘Divinity’) is a reliable choice for cool-temperate regions due to its late flowering, which minimizes frost damage. It produces medium-sized, sweet fruit with a rich aroma and is well-suited for various uses, including fresh eating and jam-making. This self-fertile tree thrives in well-drained soil and benefits from companion plants that enhance its growth and health.
The Trevatt Apricot (Prunus armeniaca ‘Trevatt’) is a robust Australian cultivar that thrives in cool temperate climates, producing large, pale-golden fruits with a sweet flavor ideal for bottling and drying. It is partially self-fertile and benefits from cross-pollination to enhance yield, making it a reliable choice for high-rainfall regions.
The Moorpark apricot (Prunus armeniaca ‘Moorpark’) is a heritage variety known for its intensely flavored fruit and earlier blooming, which increases frost risk. It thrives in well-drained loamy soil, is partially self-fertile, and produces sweet, juicy flesh, making it ideal for fresh eating, drying, and jams.
The Fantasia Nectarine (Prunus persica var. nucipersica 'Fantasia') is a hardy, mid-season fruit tree well-suited for cool temperate climates, producing medium-to-large yellow-fleshed fruit with excellent sweetness. It is self-fertile and thrives in well-drained loam or clay-enhanced soils, making it an ideal choice for food forests.
Hardired is a highly cold-tolerant nectarine, ideal for cool, wet climates with late frosts. It produces bright red fruit with yellow flesh that is intensely sweet and has a thicker skin to resist brown rot and splitting. This self-fertile tree integrates well into mixed fruit rows and is best propagated through grafting onto hardy rootstocks.
Goldmine is a heritage white-fleshed nectarine that thrives in cooler climates, particularly in elevated areas with good airflow. It is known for its unique sweetness and adaptability to various soil types, producing medium-sized fruit excellent for fresh consumption and preservation.
The Reliance Peach (Prunus persica ‘Reliance’) is a hardy cultivar ideal for cool-temperate climates, known for producing medium-sized yellow-fleshed fruit with a balanced sweetness and good aroma. It is self-fertile and thrives in well-drained, compost-enriched soil, making it suitable for areas with high rainfall and clay soils.
The Contender Peach (Prunus persica ‘Contender’) is ideal for cool climates, exhibiting a late blooming habit that protects it from frost damage. It produces medium-to-large, firm yellow fruits with a rich, sweet flavor and is highly resistant to common diseases, making it suitable for regions with high rainfall and humidity.
The Redhaven peach (Prunus persica ‘Redhaven’) is a highly reliable stonefruit known for its disease tolerance and excellent flavor, thriving in cooler temperate climates. It produces medium-sized, golden-yellow freestone fruits and is self-fertile, setting fruit consistently even in variable spring conditions. The tree's strong structure promotes good airflow, reducing the risk of fungal issues.