Choosing a fruit tree
Not sure which fruit tree to choose? Start with the fruit you enjoy and the space you have available.
When buying a tree, you'll be asked to choose a rootstock. Don't worry if the names mean nothing to you — here's a simple guide to choosing the right size.
How big will my tree grow?
The rootstock determines how big your tree is likely to grow. Choose a smaller rootstock for a smaller tree, or a more vigorous one if you have more space.
Apple trees
M9: 2–3 m
M26: 3–4 m
MM106: 4–5 m
Pear trees
Quince C / Eline: 2.5–3 m
Quince A: 3–4 m
Cherry and plum trees
Cherry — Gisela 5: 2.5–3 m
Cherry — Colt: 3–4.5 m
Plum, gage and damson — St Julien A: 3–3.6 m
These heights are a guide only. Trees may grow a little smaller in cooler northern climates, such as Sheffield. Variety, soil conditions and pruning also affect their eventual size.
Want to grow a tree against a wall or fence?
Some fruit trees can be trained into shapes that make good use of limited space, such as espaliers, fans and cordons.
Our general recommendations are:
Stepovers (1 tier): Apple on M9; pear on Quince C or Eline.
Small espaliers (2–3 tiers): Apple on M26; pear on Quince C or Eline.
Larger espaliers and fans: Apple on MM106; pear on Quince A; plum on St Julien A; cherry on Colt.
We sometimes have trained trees available in our shop. Get in touch if you'd like help choosing a tree or form.
Will I need more than one tree?
Some fruit trees are self-fertile and can produce fruit on their own. Others need one or two compatible pollination partners nearby. These will need to be in the same pollination group or in the one above or below.
Check if your tree is self-fertile or self-sterile and which pollination group your fruit is in (A-F)
Choose a different variety (but same fruit!) in the same pollination group, or one group above or below. For example, a group C apple can be pollinated by a compatible variety in group B, C or D.
We list pollination groups (A-F) where known on every fruit variety on the website and also on our stocklist.
Potted or bare-root?
Potted trees
Available for collection year-round, subject to stock and local delivery
Can be planted throughout the year, although autumn and winter are generally ideal when conditions are suitable.
Bare-root trees
Available for UK mainland shipping via courier
Available in winter, typically late November to early March.
Must be planted during the dormant season. Keep the roots moist and protected until planting.
Staking your tree
Newly planted trees need support to help their roots establish.
Trees on dwarfing rootstocks, such as M9 and M26 apples, generally need permanent staking. Trees on larger rootstocks may only need staking for the first few years.
We sell stakes and ties in our tree-care supplies section.
Need a hand?
You don't need to be a fruit-tree expert to get started! If you're unsure which variety or rootstock to choose, get in touch — we're always happy to help. We also offer pruning services, pruning workshops and grafting workshops. Find out more on our workshops page.