MEANDERING under a canopy of bee-draped fruit tree blossoms is a springtime treat, but very few of us fancy that we have space to plant large, orchard-style fruit trees. Thankfully, there’s an easy solution if you yearn for homegrown cherries, apples or peaches: grow them in pots! This method can transform even the tiniest patio or balcony into a bountiful oasis. Let’s look at the basics.
Larger thick-walled pots are ideal because you don’t want the roots to dry out. Line wooden planters with polythene, and unglazed clay pots with bubblewrap (alternatively, sink large plastic pots inside them). Don’t assume manufacturers add enough drainage holes – drill more if needed.
Avoid pure multi-purpose because it dries out quickly and loses structure. Use instead a blend of loam-based (like John Innes), adding grit and multi-purpose compost to it until you’re happy with the consistency. Acid-loving crops (blueberries) like an ericaceous loam-based compost.
Potash is the
