Damson trees
by Diane - July 11th, 2012.Filed under: Crocus.
Damsons are a great tree to have in the garden. The fruit makes great jam and the trees are beautiful with blossom in the spring and look great as the fruit grows and ripens later in the year.
It used to be common in hedgerows in the West Midlands years ago but is less often found now. A tough plant to have in your garden that should be happy on any soil.
damson ‘Shropshire Damson’ (damson) £34.99
Position: full sun Soil: will tolerate most soils, except very chalky or badly drained Rate of growth: average Ultimate size on St Julian rootstock: 4 x 4m Flowering period: April to May Hardiness: fully hardy Damsons are a great fruit to grow if you are a novice gardener as they are hardier than its closest relative, the plum, and will cope with a wide range of soils. Native to the West Midlands, this small, compact tree was originally found in the local hedgerows. It is a self-fertile variety with medium sized fruits that can be cooked or baked and used in a variety of tasty recipes. Garden care: When planting incorporate lots of well-rotted garden compost in the planting hole and stake firmly. Prune in summer to reduce the risk of silver leaf and bacterial canker.
damson ‘Merryweather’ (damson) £34.99
Position: full sun Soil: will tolerate most soils, except very chalky or badly drained Rate of growth: average Ultimate size on Pixie rootstock: 3 x 3m Ultimate size on St. Julien A rootstock: 4 x 4m Flowering period: April to May Hardiness: fully hardy Damsons are a great fruit to grow if you are a novice gardener as they are hardier than its closest relative, the plum, and will cope with a wide range of soils. Merryweather is an excellent all-rounder. It is a self-fertile variety that produces larger than average fruits, which have a blue-black skin and juicy, acidic, yellow flesh. These will be ready to harvest from late August. Garden care: When planting incorporate lots of well-rotted garden compost in the planting hole and stake firmly. Prune in summer to reduce the risk of silver leaf and bacterial canker.