Backyard Orchard Culture

Apricot tree in late afternoon light.

The promise.

The promise fulfilled.

Backyard Orchard Culture

Many of us would like to have fruit trees in our yard but lack sufficient space for much of an orchard. Perhaps we can fit in a dwarf peach or apricot, but then blossom time corresponds with a late freeze; or all the fruit ripens within a short period (maybe during vacation). Backyard Orchard Culture is about high density planting and successive ripening.

I’ve planted three apricot trees in a 4’ by 4’ raised bed. I chose early, mid-season and late apricots for a long harvest. If spring weather is unsettled, I have a better chance for a good crop. The three trees are pruned as one tree.

The Objectives of Backyard Orchard Culture  (Dave Wilson Nursery)
—Prolong harvest of tree-ripe fruit from a small space.
—Plant many fruit varieties close together.
—Maintain small tree size by summer pruning.

For more information check Dave Wilson Nursery and The California Backyard Orchard (UC Davis).