One of the questions our customers often ask is, can we grow fruit trees in Campbell River? And the answer is YES! Growing fruit trees can be one of the most rewarding forms of gardening and to have your own organic fruit to harvest and eat - priceless! 

Some of the best types of trees to grow in our area are apple, pear, cherry and plum. Pollination can be complicated so be sure to take the time to discuss pollination when you purchase your trees otherwise your trees might not reliably set fruit, but we will help you with that.

Peaches can be grown in Campbell River too but are quite a bit trickier. Choose a south or west wall, to espalier (train and prune) them against, with an eave over them to keep the rain off their leaves. The reason for this is because peaches are very susceptible to a fungal problem called Leaf Curl on our wet west coast. 

Fruit trees grow best in a full sun location where the ground drains well. Choosing a good location is an important step in your success so have a good look around your yard for the best spot. 

We sell bare-root (without a pot) at this time of year so you will need to plant them the same day you purchase them. I often like to recommend that the hole can be dug before the trees are purchased so that the planting is half done when you return home with your new trees. 

Plant your trees with bonemeal for root growth and some peat moss and compost or manure to improve the soil. Bonemeal feeds your new trees phosphorus for two years (holy crow!). Give your new trees a deep watering. Not only does your new tree need this it also ensures there are no air pockets around the roots of your tree. Lastly, apply liquid Root Booster fertilizer as it is a huge benefit to all bare-root transplanting.

You will need to be able to supply summer water to your trees for them to flourish; especially for the first three years. Water deeply about every two weeks. Keeping in mind that if we have long dry spells during summer, you may need to provide more.

You should not allow your new trees to produce fruit in the first summer, I know it is hard, but it will give you a stronger tree in time. In the second year, you can let your tree have a small crop (less than 10) then by the third year, your new tree should be raring to go. 

Before you know it you'll be pickin' & eatin' summer fruits in your own backyard!

Happy Gardening!

―Shauna

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