10 Fruits for English Gardens

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​English gardens have had a long history of food production and fruit cultivation. Traditionally it was common place for fruits to be grown up walls and along garden outdoor structures.

During the days of empire, sailors would bring back new and exotic fruit varieties to England. This led to a fascination with growing multiple fruit varieties sometimes from much warmer climates.

Such fruits were often grown along the sunny side of warm walls within English kitchen gardens. Orchards also became a typical feature within the traditional English garden.

​In this article I have listed and summarised 10 fruits most popular and abundant within English gardens. 

1. ​Pears

​Pears have been cultivated within English gardens for many centuries. Their tasty fruits have been grown along sunny walls, boundaries and within small orchards. These fruits are perfect for making cider, cooking for deserts and simply eating raw. They are perfect for temperate climates and like a sunny well drained position. 
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2. ​Medlar

​Although less common than many other fruits the Medlar has a historical affiliation with the English garden. These small trees were traditionally cultivated for their compact fruits which are full of flavour. The Medlar fruit ripens much later into the year and if regularly made into Medlar jelly which is exceptional with meat. 
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3. ​Plum

​Plums are attractive fruit trees loved both for their delicious fruit and ornamental value. Once established, plums can produce an impressive amount of fruit which is perfect for desserts and also wine making. During the spring these trees erupt in displays of flower blossom which are loved by awakening bees. 
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4. ​Apples

​The Apple tree holds a strong significance to England’s horticultural heritage. For centuries this fruit has been bred into specialised varieties ranging from desserts, cider and cooking apples. Being absolutely perfect for England’s temperate climate they are heavy producers! These trees are also very ornamental with stunning blossom! 
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5. ​Gooseberries

​Gooseberries have always grown exceptionally well within England’s lush and mild climate. In English gardens these fruit bushes are grown for their tart flavour and versatility in the kitchen. These berries are perfect for making fruit jams, chutneys and preserves. They also have decorative foliage and very attractive flowers. 
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6. ​Figs

​Originally from the Middle East, Figs have been popular in English gardens for centuries. This fruit tree is thought of as a ‘hardy exotic’ happily thriving and fruiting within English gardens. It is very commonly trained against south facing walls to get the very best fruits which are a delicacy. 
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7. ​Peach

​Peaches by no means are straight forward to grow in England but can be successful in the correct conditions. Growing peaches outside has always been thought of as the golden prize for English horticulturists. In English gardens it will need a south facing wall and preferably be grown within a sunny courtyard. 
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8. ​Grapes

​Grapes were originally brought to Britain by the Romans for wine making. These fruiting vines have always been a delicacy not just for wine making but also for desserts. In English gardens grapes are grown along structures such as trellis and pergolas. For the best fruits vines where trained against white walls or inside glasshouses. 
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9. ​Raspberries 

​Raspberries are one of the most favourite fruits in England utilised within numerous cakes and other deserts. These perennial fruiting plants are extremely resilient and able to tolerate a range of growing conditions. As English weather is unpredictable this makes them perfect for English gardeners with a sweet tooth. 
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10. ​Strawberries 

​Strawberries are low growing perennial plants highly prized for their large bright red fruits. The fruits are perfect for enjoying fresh with cream or for making jam. These fruits have been grown in English gardens for centuries and also have some ornamental value. They are typically grown in raised beds mulched with straw. 
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Thank you for reading our article on the 10 best fruits for English gardens! Below I will link to some other articles you may find relevant. 

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