Plant Talk |
CAUTION:The information and recommendations in this article are applicable to Harnett County, NC and may not apply in other areas.
BACKYARD FRUIT PRODUCTION, 01/03/97
Few things can match the pleasure and taste of fresh fruit picked right from the tree or vine. But those of us with small yards or limited time may think that growing our own fruit is out of reach. Don't despair! You may not be able to handle the extensive pruning and spraying requirements of peach trees, but there is almost certainly an option to fit within your time and space constraints. Blueberries and grapes are two excellent possibilities. They are relatively easy to grow and require less space than many fruit trees.
BLUEBERRIES
The rabbiteye type is recommended for this part of the state.
You will
need to plant at least two plants of differenct varieties for
proper pollination.
Soil testing is critical, as blueberries will not tolerate the
high pH
levels which result from applying lime. The rabbiteye type is
drought tolerant
and does not have many pest problems. Proper pruning is important
for optimum
fruit production.
GRAPES
Bunch grapes (a.k.a. table grapes) are not recommended for
this part
of the state. However, muscadine grapes such as the Scuppernong
variety
will do quite well. Although not as tender as table grapes, the
muscadine
type have excellent flavor and are excellent for jams, jellies,
wine, juices,
and eating off the vine. You will need to construct some type of
trellis,
and keep them pruned properly. Do some research on varieties.
Some varieities
are self pollinating, while others are not. If space limits you
to one
plant, choose a self pollinating variety.
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
Take a soil test before planting to insure proper fertility
levels.
Choose the location carefully. Good fruit production requires
full sun
and good drainage. Do not plant in that low wet spot. You will
also want
to avoid low lying areas that might be more susceptible to frost
(i.e.
cold air flows down hill). Mulch will add organic matter to the
soil, prevent
soil erosion, and conserve water.
Most insect and disease problems can be minimized through good sanitation. Destroy any fallen leaves or fruit and remove dead and injured branches. By monitoring plants closely, insect and disease problems can be identified earlier, which makes them much easier to control. I will be happy to provide information on controlling specific pest problems. Other possibilities for backyard fruit production include strawberries, figs, and blackberries. The Extension Service also has a number of free publications which provide more detailed information. By following the correct steps, you can enjoy freshly picked fruit from your own yard with minimal effort. Back to Plant Talk Index
www.ces.ncsu.edu/harnett/pubs/planttalk/planttlk.html