The Accidental Smallholder Forum

Growing => Fruit => Topic started by: Part time dabbler on November 27, 2017, 12:24:22 pm

Title: Sloe tree
Post by: Part time dabbler on November 27, 2017, 12:24:22 pm
In my last garden I had a Sloe tree, I have now moved and I miss that tree (or at least the sloe gin I made :)). Can anyone advise on varieties, whether to buy mature trees or bare root bushes and what type of soil they require?
Title: Re: Sloe tree
Post by: Dan on November 27, 2017, 03:17:14 pm
Sloes are the fruit of the Blackthorn, Prunus spinosa. So there are no varieties, you just need blackthorn. Pretty much any well-drained soil, in full sun would be best. :thumbsup:

They are relatively cheap, so it might be worth getting a bigger one in a pot. Bare-rooted shouldn't cost you any more than £1 per plant for a small number.
Title: Re: Sloe tree
Post by: Possum on November 27, 2017, 07:59:35 pm
You don't necessarily need well drained soil. We are on clay which gets very soggy in the winter and have several very fruitful blackthorns. :)