Fruit trees – considerations about growth, space and care

Create a lush garden with fruit trees that suit both space and climate
Furnishing
Furnishing
6 min
Fruit trees add both flavour and atmosphere to the garden. Read about growth forms, space requirements and care, and get inspiration to choose the fruit trees that best suit your garden and your wishes.
Omar Richardson
Omar
Richardson

Fruit trees – considerations about growth, space and care

Create a lush garden with fruit trees that suit both space and climate
Furnishing
Furnishing
6 min
Fruit trees add both flavour and atmosphere to the garden. Read about growth forms, space requirements and care, and get inspiration to choose the fruit trees that best suit your garden and your wishes.
Omar Richardson
Omar
Richardson

Fruit trees not only provide delicious fruit but also shade, blossoms and life in the garden. Whether you dream of apples, cherries or peaches, it is important to choose trees that suit your garden and your wishes. There are big differences in growth form, space requirements and care, and with the right choice you can ensure both healthy growth and a rich harvest for many years to come.

In this article, you will get an overview of the most important factors to consider when choosing fruit trees, as well as inspiration for different types and producers.

The article presents a wide selection of fruit trees in different sizes, varieties and price ranges. The purpose is to provide an overview of the available options so you can more easily find a tree that suits your garden. The information about the individual products is based on descriptions from manufacturers and retailers and is summarised to provide a clear and informative overview.

Factors to consider when buying a fruit tree

When choosing a fruit tree, it is important to take into account both growing conditions, space and care. Here are some of the most important considerations.

1. Space and growth form

Fruit trees come in many sizes – from dwarf trees that can stand in pots to large varieties that require plenty of space. Consider how much space you have and how tall the tree may grow. Dwarf and columnar trees are ideal for small gardens or terraces, while free-growing trees are best suited to larger gardens.

2. Pollination

Some fruit trees are self-pollinating, while others require a pollination partner to bear fruit. Therefore, check whether the variety you choose needs another tree nearby to produce a good yield. Apple and pear trees often need cross-pollination, while cherries and plums can be more independent.

3. Soil and sunlight conditions

Most fruit trees thrive best in well-drained soil and sunny surroundings. Avoid places with standing water and make sure the soil is nutrient-rich. If your soil is heavy or clayey, you can improve it with compost or plant the tree in a raised bed.

4. Care and pruning

Regular pruning is important to shape the tree and ensure good fruiting. Young trees require special attention in the first few years to develop a strong structure. Watering and fertilising during the growing season help keep the tree healthy and productive.

5. Price and lifespan

Fruit trees are an investment that can bring joy for many years. The price depends on age, variety and size. A young tree is cheaper but requires patience, while an older tree will bear fruit more quickly.

Products in focus

1
Flowering almond tree
Sweet Almond
A deciduous fruit tree that blooms with light pink flowers in April and produces fruits with edible almonds. The tree thrives best in full sun and requires a warm location to avoid frost damage.
Why it was chosen: Sweet Almond was selected as an example of a decorative and edible fruit tree that combines ornamental value with utility. It represents a southern species that can be grown in Denmark under protected conditions.

Sweet Almond (Prunus dulcis) is a fruit tree that blooms in April with light pink flowers, adding a distinct spring character to the garden. The fruits initially resemble small green peaches, but the flesh is dry and inedible. The kernel in the centre of the fruit is an edible almond, which can be used directly or in baking.

The tree thrives best in full sun and nutrient-rich soil. It should be watered and fertilised regularly throughout the growing season to maintain healthy growth and fruit set. Due to the Danish climate, cultivation in a greenhouse or in a warm location, such as against a south- or west-facing wall, is recommended to protect against frost and fungal diseases.

Sweet Almond has a broad-crowned growth form and can reach a height of 2–4 metres and a width of 3–4 metres. The leaves are elongated and green, and the flowers are white to light pink. The fruits typically ripen in September.

  • Flowering: Light pink flowers in April provide a beautiful spring sight.
  • Edible almonds: The kernel of the fruit can be used as regular almonds.
  • Location: Thrives best in full sun and sheltered from wind and frost.
  • Growth form: Broad-crowned tree with medium growth rate.
  • Use: Suitable for gardens and parks as both an ornamental and useful plant.

Pros and cons

  • Decorative flowering in spring
  • Produces edible almonds
  • Can be grown in a greenhouse or in a protected outdoor area
  • Suitable for sunny locations
  • Sensitive to frost and fungal diseases in open areas
  • Requires nutrient-rich soil and regular watering
  • The fruit flesh is dry and inedible

Pros and cons

Pros

  • Decorative flowering in spring
  • Produces edible almonds
  • Can be grown in a greenhouse or in a protected outdoor area
  • Suitable for sunny locations

Cons

  • Sensitive to frost and fungal diseases in open areas
  • Requires nutrient-rich soil and regular watering
  • The fruit flesh is dry and inedible

Pros

  • Decorative flowering in spring
  • Produces edible almonds
  • Can be grown in a greenhouse or in a protected outdoor area
  • Suitable for sunny locations

Cons

  • Sensitive to frost and fungal diseases in open areas
  • Requires nutrient-rich soil and regular watering
  • The fruit flesh is dry and inedible
Pros: The plant has decorative flowering in spring, produces edible almonds, can be grown in a greenhouse or in a protected outdoor area, and thrives best in sunny locations.
Cons: It is sensitive to frost and fungal diseases in open areas, requires nutrient-rich soil and regular watering, and the fruit flesh is dry and inedible.
Pros: The plant has decorative flowering in spring, produces edible almonds, can be grown in a greenhouse or in a protected outdoor area, and thrives best in sunny locations.
Cons: It is sensitive to frost and fungal diseases in open areas, requires nutrient-rich soil and regular watering, and the fruit flesh is dry and inedible.

Specifications

  • Botanical name: Prunus dulcis
  • Category: Fruit trees & Fruit bushes
  • Type: Almond tree
  • Flowering period: April (spring)
  • Flower colour: White to light pink
  • Leaf colour: Green
  • Leaf shape: Elongated
  • Fruit colour: Brown
  • Fruit size: 1–5 cm
  • Ripening time: September
  • Height: 200–400 cm
  • Width: 300–400 cm
  • Location: Full sun
  • Growth form: Broad-crowned, medium-growing
  • Hardiness: Fair (requires protection from frost)
  • Fertilisation level: Medium
  • Optimal growing conditions: Nutrient-rich soil and even watering
2
Elegant Asian ornamental tree
Sakhalin cherry
A deciduous ornamental tree with a vase-shaped crown, light pink flowers in spring, and striking red autumn colours. Suitable as a specimen tree in gardens and parks.
Why it was chosen: Sakhalin cherry was selected as a representative of Japanese cherry trees that combine ornamental value through blossom and autumn colour with robust growth and adaptability to Danish conditions.

Sakhalin cherry, also known as Prunus sargentii, is a medium-sized deciduous tree that develops a broad, vase-shaped crown. With age, the tree acquires a more spreading and multi-stemmed structure, giving it a distinctive and natural appearance in the garden.

The leaves are medium-sized and elongated with a distinct tip. They emerge in a dark bronze-red tone, later turning fresh green and ending the season with intense red and orange-red autumn colours. The smooth, reddish-brown bark with light cork spots darkens over time and develops prominent horizontal stripes.

The tree blooms profusely in April and the first half of May with large, light pink flowers that often appear before the leaves. Fruit set is rare, but small blackish-red berries can be seen in some years.

Sakhalin cherry thrives best in sun to partial shade and prefers a nutrient-rich, well-drained soil. It tolerates many soil types but should not be planted where water stands. In heavy clay soil, the soil can be loosened and supplemented with gravel or sand for better drainage.

The tree is suitable as a specimen plant in gardens, parks, and avenues, where it can be highlighted as a decorative element. During the establishment phase, staking is recommended to ensure stable growth.

  • Profusely flowering spring tree: Large, light pink flowers in April and May.
  • Decorative foliage: Changes from bronze-red spring leaves to red and orange-red autumn colours.
  • Characteristic growth form: Vase-shaped and later broad-crowned structure.
  • Robust and adaptable: Thrives in sun or partial shade on well-drained soil.
  • Suitable as an ornamental tree: Works well as a specimen tree in gardens and parks.

Pros and cons

  • Beautiful blossom and striking autumn colours
  • Tolerates many soil types
  • Suitable as a specimen tree or in groups
  • Relatively hardy and robust
  • Requires well-drained soil and should not stand in waterlogged soil
  • Needs staking during the establishment phase
  • Fruit set is rare

Pros and cons

Pros

  • Beautiful blossom and striking autumn colours
  • Tolerates many soil types
  • Suitable as a specimen tree or in groups
  • Relatively hardy and robust

Cons

  • Requires well-drained soil and should not stand in waterlogged soil
  • Needs staking during the establishment phase
  • Fruit set is rare

Pros

  • Beautiful blossom and striking autumn colours
  • Tolerates many soil types
  • Suitable as a specimen tree or in groups
  • Relatively hardy and robust

Cons

  • Requires well-drained soil and should not stand in waterlogged soil
  • Needs staking during the establishment phase
  • Fruit set is rare
Pros: The tree has beautiful blossom and striking autumn colours, tolerates many soil types, is suitable both as a specimen tree and in groups, and is also relatively hardy and robust.
Cons: It requires well-drained soil and should not stand in waterlogged soil, needs staking during the establishment phase, and fruit set occurs only rarely.
Pros: The tree has beautiful blossom and striking autumn colours, tolerates many soil types, is suitable both as a specimen tree and in groups, and is also relatively hardy and robust.
Cons: It requires well-drained soil and should not stand in waterlogged soil, needs staking during the establishment phase, and fruit set occurs only rarely.

Specifications

  • Botanical name: Prunus sargentii
  • Danish name: Sakhalin cherry
  • Category: Japanese cherry / Trees
  • Growth form: Vase-shaped, broad-crowned
  • Height: 1000–1500 cm
  • Width: 150–300 cm
  • Flowering: April–May
  • Flower colour: Pale pink to pink
  • Leaf colour: Red-green, bronze-red when emerging
  • Autumn colour: Red and orange-red
  • Placement: Full sun or partial shade
  • Soil type: Nutrient-rich and well-drained garden soil
  • Hardiness: Fully hardy
  • Use: Gardens and parks
  • Wind conditions: Should be placed in a sheltered location
  • Fertiliser level: Medium
3
Elegant weeping pear
Willow-leaved pear
A small, hardy ornamental tree with a characteristic weeping crown and narrow, silvery-green leaves that give an elegant and contrasting expression in the garden.
Why it was chosen: The willow-leaved pear was selected as a representative of smaller ornamental trees with a weeping growth form. It combines decorative foliage, robustness, and low maintenance requirements, making it suitable for both gardens and parks.

The willow-leaved pear 'Pendula' is a small tree characterised by its weeping and spreading crown. It is often grafted onto a stem, which gives a clear trunk height and a crown that develops from round to umbrella-shaped and later to a canopy form.

The leaves are narrow and covered with fine, soft hairs, giving a silvery-grey tone in spring and later a grey-green colour. The foliage resembles that of willow or olive trees and contributes to a light and elegant appearance. In autumn, the leaves take on subtle light yellow shades, and leaf fall occurs late in the season.

The bark is initially silvery white due to the many fine hairs but becomes grey and develops fissures with age. In April and May, the tree blooms with white to cream-white flowers with reddish stamens, which are gathered in corymbs and have a light sweet scent.

After flowering, small greenish-brown fruits may form, which are not edible but are sometimes taken by birds after frost. The tree thrives best in full sun and in ordinary, well-drained garden soil. It is hardy, wind-tolerant, and drought-resistant once established.

The willow-leaved pear is often used as a specimen tree or in small groups, where its light foliage and weeping growth create contrast and structure in the planting.

  • Weeping growth form: Creates an elegant and distinctive expression in the garden.
  • Silvery-grey foliage: Provides a light and contrasting touch against darker plantings.
  • Hardy and wind-tolerant: Suitable for Danish conditions and requires minimal maintenance.
  • Spring flowering: White to cream-white flowers in April–May.
  • Suitable as an ornamental tree: Works well as a specimen tree or in smaller groups.

Pros and cons

  • Decorative weeping growth and silvery-green foliage
  • Hardy and drought-tolerant after establishment
  • Requires little maintenance
  • Thrives in full sun and ordinary garden soil
  • The fruits are not edible
  • Young trees may need staking during the first seasons
  • Prefers well-drained soil and may struggle in heavy, wet soil

Pros and cons

Pros

  • Decorative weeping growth and silvery-green foliage
  • Hardy and drought-tolerant after establishment
  • Requires little maintenance
  • Thrives in full sun and ordinary garden soil

Cons

  • The fruits are not edible
  • Young trees may need staking during the first seasons
  • Prefers well-drained soil and may struggle in heavy, wet soil

Pros

  • Decorative weeping growth and silvery-green foliage
  • Hardy and drought-tolerant after establishment
  • Requires little maintenance
  • Thrives in full sun and ordinary garden soil

Cons

  • The fruits are not edible
  • Young trees may need staking during the first seasons
  • Prefers well-drained soil and may struggle in heavy, wet soil
Pros: The plant has a decorative weeping growth with silvery-green foliage, is hardy and drought-tolerant after establishment, requires little maintenance, and thrives well in full sun and ordinary garden soil.
Cons: The fruits are not edible, young trees may need staking during the first seasons, and it prefers well-drained soil as it may struggle in heavy and wet soil.
Pros: The plant has a decorative weeping growth with silvery-green foliage, is hardy and drought-tolerant after establishment, requires little maintenance, and thrives well in full sun and ordinary garden soil.
Cons: The fruits are not edible, young trees may need staking during the first seasons, and it prefers well-drained soil as it may struggle in heavy and wet soil.

Specifications

  • Botanical name: Pyrus salicifolia 'Pendula'
  • Type: Ornamental tree
  • Growth form: Weeping, overhanging, broad-crowned
  • Height: 400–700 cm
  • Width: 300–600 cm
  • Leaf colour: Grey to grey-green
  • Flower colour: White to cream-white
  • Flowering period: April–May
  • Fruit colour: Greenish-brown (not edible)
  • Placement: Full sun
  • Soil type: Nutrient-rich, well-drained garden soil
  • Hardiness: Fully hardy
  • Wind conditions: Should be placed in a sheltered location
  • Use: Gardens and parks
  • Growth: Medium growing
  • Ripening time: September–October
4
Elegance in the branches
Weeping Mulberry
A medium-sized, broad-crowned tree with drooping branches, dark green heart-shaped leaves and small white flowers that thrive in full sun and nutrient-rich garden soil.
Why it was chosen: The Weeping Mulberry was selected as a representative of decorative fruit trees with a weeping growth form. It combines a distinctive appearance with moderate hardiness and is suitable for both gardens and parks.

The Weeping Mulberry, botanically known as Morus alba 'Pendula', is an ornamental tree with a characteristic weeping growth form. The tree develops a broad crown with downward-arching branches, giving an elegant and tranquil expression in the garden.

The leaves are heart-shaped and dark green, creating a dense and decorative foliage throughout the summer. In May and June, the tree blooms with small white flowers, which may later be followed by light, white fruits in late summer.

The tree thrives best in full sun and in ordinary, nutrient-rich garden soil. It grows moderately and typically reaches a height of about 3 metres and a width of about 2 metres, making it suitable for medium-sized gardens or as a specimen tree in parks.

The Weeping Mulberry is moderately hardy and requires only limited maintenance, making it a practical choice for garden owners who want a decorative tree with a natural, weeping appearance.

  • Weeping growth form: Creates an elegant and distinctive expression in the garden.
  • Flowering in May–June: Small white flowers give a light and summery touch.
  • Fruits: White mulberries that ripen in late summer.
  • Placement: Thrives best in full sun and nutrient-rich garden soil.
  • Size: Approx. 3 metres high and 2 metres wide – suitable for medium-sized gardens.

Pros and cons

  • Decorative weeping growth form
  • Suitable for sunny locations
  • Relatively easy to care for
  • Produces both flowers and fruits
  • Moderate hardiness – may require protection in harsh winters
  • Requires space to spread its broad crown

Pros and cons

Pros

  • Decorative weeping growth form
  • Suitable for sunny locations
  • Relatively easy to care for
  • Produces both flowers and fruits

Cons

  • Moderate hardiness – may require protection in harsh winters
  • Requires space to spread its broad crown

Pros

  • Decorative weeping growth form
  • Suitable for sunny locations
  • Relatively easy to care for
  • Produces both flowers and fruits

Cons

  • Moderate hardiness – may require protection in harsh winters
  • Requires space to spread its broad crown
Pros: The plant has a decorative weeping growth form, thrives well in sunny locations, is relatively easy to care for and produces both flowers and fruits.
Cons: It has only moderate hardiness and may therefore require protection in harsh winters, and it needs plenty of space to spread its broad crown.
Pros: The plant has a decorative weeping growth form, thrives well in sunny locations, is relatively easy to care for and produces both flowers and fruits.
Cons: It has only moderate hardiness and may therefore require protection in harsh winters, and it needs plenty of space to spread its broad crown.

Specifications

  • Botanical name: Morus alba 'Pendula'
  • Type: Fruit tree / ornamental tree
  • Size: Medium-sized
  • Height: Approx. 3 metres
  • Width: Approx. 2 metres
  • Leaf shape: Heart-shaped
  • Leaf colour: Dark green
  • Flower colour: White
  • Flowering period: May – June
  • Fruit colour: White
  • Growth form: Broad-crowned, weeping
  • Growth: Moderately growing
  • Placement: Full sun
  • Soil type: Ordinary nutrient-rich garden soil
  • Hardiness: Moderate
  • Fertilisation level: Medium
  • Use: Gardens and parks
5
Nordic natural power
Common Wild Apple
A native, moderately growing tree with a broad crown, white flowers and small yellow-green fruits. Suitable for gardens, parks and shelterbelts, where it contributes with flowering, autumn colours and food for birds.
Why it was chosen: Common Wild Apple was selected as a representative of the native ornamental apple trees that combine decorative value with ecological significance. It is a robust choice for Danish conditions and an example of a species that is both beautiful and beneficial to nature.

Common Wild Apple (Malus sylvestris) is a moderately growing tree with a naturally spreading and broad crown. The species is native to Denmark and is characterised by its great hardiness and ability to thrive in many soil types, including where the soil is periodically moist.

The leaves are small, oval and fresh green with light yellow autumn colours. Young shoots are brownish-green, while older trunks develop a grey-brown, crust-like bark that can peel off in small flakes.

In spring, the tree is covered with many small white to pinkish-white flowers that attract beneficial insects. Later, small, oval yellow-green fruits of 3–4 cm develop, which are sour in taste. The fruits can be used for jelly or marmalade and serve as food for birds during the winter months.

The tree thrives best in full sun or partial shade and requires no special growing conditions. It can be planted individually, in groups or as part of a shelterbelt, where its wind resistance and natural form are best displayed. When planting, staking is recommended for the first two seasons to ensure good establishment.

  • Native species: Naturally occurring in Denmark and adapted to local conditions.
  • Decorative flowering: Many small white to pinkish-white flowers in spring.
  • Edible fruits: Small yellow-green apples, suitable for jelly and marmalade.
  • High hardiness: Tolerates wind and varied soil types, including moist ground.
  • Ecological value: Attracts insects and provides food for birds.

Pros and cons

  • Robust and wind-resistant tree, suitable for Danish conditions
  • Attracts pollinators and birds
  • Decorative flowering and autumn colour
  • Can be used both as an ornamental tree and in shelterbelts
  • The fruits are sour and not suitable for fresh eating
  • Requires staking during the establishment phase for stable growth

Pros and cons

Pros

  • Robust and wind-resistant tree, suitable for Danish conditions
  • Attracts pollinators and birds
  • Decorative flowering and autumn colour
  • Can be used both as an ornamental tree and in shelterbelts

Cons

  • The fruits are sour and not suitable for fresh eating
  • Requires staking during the establishment phase for stable growth

Pros

  • Robust and wind-resistant tree, suitable for Danish conditions
  • Attracts pollinators and birds
  • Decorative flowering and autumn colour
  • Can be used both as an ornamental tree and in shelterbelts

Cons

  • The fruits are sour and not suitable for fresh eating
  • Requires staking during the establishment phase for stable growth
Pros: The tree is robust and wind-resistant, making it suitable for Danish conditions, while also attracting pollinators and birds, having decorative flowering and beautiful autumn colours, and can be used both as an ornamental tree and in shelterbelts.
Cons: The fruits are sour and not suitable for fresh eating, and the tree requires staking during the establishment phase to ensure stable growth.
Pros: The tree is robust and wind-resistant, making it suitable for Danish conditions, while also attracting pollinators and birds, having decorative flowering and beautiful autumn colours, and can be used both as an ornamental tree and in shelterbelts.
Cons: The fruits are sour and not suitable for fresh eating, and the tree requires staking during the establishment phase to ensure stable growth.

Specifications

  • Botanical name: Malus sylvestris
  • Category: Ornamental apple
  • Main category: Trees
  • Growth form: Broad-crowned
  • Growth: Moderate to vigorous
  • Height: 600–700 cm
  • Width: 300–400 cm
  • Flowering: April–May
  • Flower colour: White to pinkish-white
  • Leaf colour: Green, yellow autumn foliage
  • Fruit colour: Yellow-green
  • Fruit size: 3–4 cm
  • Placement: Full sun or partial shade
  • Hardiness: Fully hardy
  • Soil type: Nutrient-rich, well-drained garden soil; tolerates moist ground
  • Use: Gardens, parks, shelterbelts

Product descriptions

1
Flowering almond tree
Sweet Almond
A deciduous fruit tree that blooms with light pink flowers in April and produces fruits with edible almonds. The tree thrives best in full sun and requires a warm location to avoid frost damage.
Why it was chosen: Sweet Almond was selected as an example of a decorative and edible fruit tree that combines ornamental value with utility. It represents a southern species that can be grown in Denmark under protected conditions.

Sweet Almond (Prunus dulcis) is a fruit tree that blooms in April with light pink flowers, adding a distinct spring character to the garden. The fruits initially resemble small green peaches, but the flesh is dry and inedible. The kernel in the centre of the fruit is an edible almond, which can be used directly or in baking.

The tree thrives best in full sun and nutrient-rich soil. It should be watered and fertilised regularly throughout the growing season to maintain healthy growth and fruit set. Due to the Danish climate, cultivation in a greenhouse or in a warm location, such as against a south- or west-facing wall, is recommended to protect against frost and fungal diseases.

Sweet Almond has a broad-crowned growth form and can reach a height of 2–4 metres and a width of 3–4 metres. The leaves are elongated and green, and the flowers are white to light pink. The fruits typically ripen in September.

  • Flowering: Light pink flowers in April provide a beautiful spring sight.
  • Edible almonds: The kernel of the fruit can be used as regular almonds.
  • Location: Thrives best in full sun and sheltered from wind and frost.
  • Growth form: Broad-crowned tree with medium growth rate.
  • Use: Suitable for gardens and parks as both an ornamental and useful plant.

Pros and cons

  • Decorative flowering in spring
  • Produces edible almonds
  • Can be grown in a greenhouse or in a protected outdoor area
  • Suitable for sunny locations
  • Sensitive to frost and fungal diseases in open areas
  • Requires nutrient-rich soil and regular watering
  • The fruit flesh is dry and inedible

Pros and cons

Pros

  • Decorative flowering in spring
  • Produces edible almonds
  • Can be grown in a greenhouse or in a protected outdoor area
  • Suitable for sunny locations

Cons

  • Sensitive to frost and fungal diseases in open areas
  • Requires nutrient-rich soil and regular watering
  • The fruit flesh is dry and inedible

Pros

  • Decorative flowering in spring
  • Produces edible almonds
  • Can be grown in a greenhouse or in a protected outdoor area
  • Suitable for sunny locations

Cons

  • Sensitive to frost and fungal diseases in open areas
  • Requires nutrient-rich soil and regular watering
  • The fruit flesh is dry and inedible
Pros: The plant has decorative flowering in spring, produces edible almonds, can be grown in a greenhouse or in a protected outdoor area, and thrives best in sunny locations.
Cons: It is sensitive to frost and fungal diseases in open areas, requires nutrient-rich soil and regular watering, and the fruit flesh is dry and inedible.
Pros: The plant has decorative flowering in spring, produces edible almonds, can be grown in a greenhouse or in a protected outdoor area, and thrives best in sunny locations.
Cons: It is sensitive to frost and fungal diseases in open areas, requires nutrient-rich soil and regular watering, and the fruit flesh is dry and inedible.

Specifications

  • Botanical name: Prunus dulcis
  • Category: Fruit trees & Fruit bushes
  • Type: Almond tree
  • Flowering period: April (spring)
  • Flower colour: White to light pink
  • Leaf colour: Green
  • Leaf shape: Elongated
  • Fruit colour: Brown
  • Fruit size: 1–5 cm
  • Ripening time: September
  • Height: 200–400 cm
  • Width: 300–400 cm
  • Location: Full sun
  • Growth form: Broad-crowned, medium-growing
  • Hardiness: Fair (requires protection from frost)
  • Fertilisation level: Medium
  • Optimal growing conditions: Nutrient-rich soil and even watering
2
Elegant Asian ornamental tree
Sakhalin cherry
A deciduous ornamental tree with a vase-shaped crown, light pink flowers in spring, and striking red autumn colours. Suitable as a specimen tree in gardens and parks.
Why it was chosen: Sakhalin cherry was selected as a representative of Japanese cherry trees that combine ornamental value through blossom and autumn colour with robust growth and adaptability to Danish conditions.

Sakhalin cherry, also known as Prunus sargentii, is a medium-sized deciduous tree that develops a broad, vase-shaped crown. With age, the tree acquires a more spreading and multi-stemmed structure, giving it a distinctive and natural appearance in the garden.

The leaves are medium-sized and elongated with a distinct tip. They emerge in a dark bronze-red tone, later turning fresh green and ending the season with intense red and orange-red autumn colours. The smooth, reddish-brown bark with light cork spots darkens over time and develops prominent horizontal stripes.

The tree blooms profusely in April and the first half of May with large, light pink flowers that often appear before the leaves. Fruit set is rare, but small blackish-red berries can be seen in some years.

Sakhalin cherry thrives best in sun to partial shade and prefers a nutrient-rich, well-drained soil. It tolerates many soil types but should not be planted where water stands. In heavy clay soil, the soil can be loosened and supplemented with gravel or sand for better drainage.

The tree is suitable as a specimen plant in gardens, parks, and avenues, where it can be highlighted as a decorative element. During the establishment phase, staking is recommended to ensure stable growth.

  • Profusely flowering spring tree: Large, light pink flowers in April and May.
  • Decorative foliage: Changes from bronze-red spring leaves to red and orange-red autumn colours.
  • Characteristic growth form: Vase-shaped and later broad-crowned structure.
  • Robust and adaptable: Thrives in sun or partial shade on well-drained soil.
  • Suitable as an ornamental tree: Works well as a specimen tree in gardens and parks.

Pros and cons

  • Beautiful blossom and striking autumn colours
  • Tolerates many soil types
  • Suitable as a specimen tree or in groups
  • Relatively hardy and robust
  • Requires well-drained soil and should not stand in waterlogged soil
  • Needs staking during the establishment phase
  • Fruit set is rare

Pros and cons

Pros

  • Beautiful blossom and striking autumn colours
  • Tolerates many soil types
  • Suitable as a specimen tree or in groups
  • Relatively hardy and robust

Cons

  • Requires well-drained soil and should not stand in waterlogged soil
  • Needs staking during the establishment phase
  • Fruit set is rare

Pros

  • Beautiful blossom and striking autumn colours
  • Tolerates many soil types
  • Suitable as a specimen tree or in groups
  • Relatively hardy and robust

Cons

  • Requires well-drained soil and should not stand in waterlogged soil
  • Needs staking during the establishment phase
  • Fruit set is rare
Pros: The tree has beautiful blossom and striking autumn colours, tolerates many soil types, is suitable both as a specimen tree and in groups, and is also relatively hardy and robust.
Cons: It requires well-drained soil and should not stand in waterlogged soil, needs staking during the establishment phase, and fruit set occurs only rarely.
Pros: The tree has beautiful blossom and striking autumn colours, tolerates many soil types, is suitable both as a specimen tree and in groups, and is also relatively hardy and robust.
Cons: It requires well-drained soil and should not stand in waterlogged soil, needs staking during the establishment phase, and fruit set occurs only rarely.

Specifications

  • Botanical name: Prunus sargentii
  • Danish name: Sakhalin cherry
  • Category: Japanese cherry / Trees
  • Growth form: Vase-shaped, broad-crowned
  • Height: 1000–1500 cm
  • Width: 150–300 cm
  • Flowering: April–May
  • Flower colour: Pale pink to pink
  • Leaf colour: Red-green, bronze-red when emerging
  • Autumn colour: Red and orange-red
  • Placement: Full sun or partial shade
  • Soil type: Nutrient-rich and well-drained garden soil
  • Hardiness: Fully hardy
  • Use: Gardens and parks
  • Wind conditions: Should be placed in a sheltered location
  • Fertiliser level: Medium
3
Elegant weeping pear
Willow-leaved pear
A small, hardy ornamental tree with a characteristic weeping crown and narrow, silvery-green leaves that give an elegant and contrasting expression in the garden.
Why it was chosen: The willow-leaved pear was selected as a representative of smaller ornamental trees with a weeping growth form. It combines decorative foliage, robustness, and low maintenance requirements, making it suitable for both gardens and parks.

The willow-leaved pear 'Pendula' is a small tree characterised by its weeping and spreading crown. It is often grafted onto a stem, which gives a clear trunk height and a crown that develops from round to umbrella-shaped and later to a canopy form.

The leaves are narrow and covered with fine, soft hairs, giving a silvery-grey tone in spring and later a grey-green colour. The foliage resembles that of willow or olive trees and contributes to a light and elegant appearance. In autumn, the leaves take on subtle light yellow shades, and leaf fall occurs late in the season.

The bark is initially silvery white due to the many fine hairs but becomes grey and develops fissures with age. In April and May, the tree blooms with white to cream-white flowers with reddish stamens, which are gathered in corymbs and have a light sweet scent.

After flowering, small greenish-brown fruits may form, which are not edible but are sometimes taken by birds after frost. The tree thrives best in full sun and in ordinary, well-drained garden soil. It is hardy, wind-tolerant, and drought-resistant once established.

The willow-leaved pear is often used as a specimen tree or in small groups, where its light foliage and weeping growth create contrast and structure in the planting.

  • Weeping growth form: Creates an elegant and distinctive expression in the garden.
  • Silvery-grey foliage: Provides a light and contrasting touch against darker plantings.
  • Hardy and wind-tolerant: Suitable for Danish conditions and requires minimal maintenance.
  • Spring flowering: White to cream-white flowers in April–May.
  • Suitable as an ornamental tree: Works well as a specimen tree or in smaller groups.

Pros and cons

  • Decorative weeping growth and silvery-green foliage
  • Hardy and drought-tolerant after establishment
  • Requires little maintenance
  • Thrives in full sun and ordinary garden soil
  • The fruits are not edible
  • Young trees may need staking during the first seasons
  • Prefers well-drained soil and may struggle in heavy, wet soil

Pros and cons

Pros

  • Decorative weeping growth and silvery-green foliage
  • Hardy and drought-tolerant after establishment
  • Requires little maintenance
  • Thrives in full sun and ordinary garden soil

Cons

  • The fruits are not edible
  • Young trees may need staking during the first seasons
  • Prefers well-drained soil and may struggle in heavy, wet soil

Pros

  • Decorative weeping growth and silvery-green foliage
  • Hardy and drought-tolerant after establishment
  • Requires little maintenance
  • Thrives in full sun and ordinary garden soil

Cons

  • The fruits are not edible
  • Young trees may need staking during the first seasons
  • Prefers well-drained soil and may struggle in heavy, wet soil
Pros: The plant has a decorative weeping growth with silvery-green foliage, is hardy and drought-tolerant after establishment, requires little maintenance, and thrives well in full sun and ordinary garden soil.
Cons: The fruits are not edible, young trees may need staking during the first seasons, and it prefers well-drained soil as it may struggle in heavy and wet soil.
Pros: The plant has a decorative weeping growth with silvery-green foliage, is hardy and drought-tolerant after establishment, requires little maintenance, and thrives well in full sun and ordinary garden soil.
Cons: The fruits are not edible, young trees may need staking during the first seasons, and it prefers well-drained soil as it may struggle in heavy and wet soil.

Specifications

  • Botanical name: Pyrus salicifolia 'Pendula'
  • Type: Ornamental tree
  • Growth form: Weeping, overhanging, broad-crowned
  • Height: 400–700 cm
  • Width: 300–600 cm
  • Leaf colour: Grey to grey-green
  • Flower colour: White to cream-white
  • Flowering period: April–May
  • Fruit colour: Greenish-brown (not edible)
  • Placement: Full sun
  • Soil type: Nutrient-rich, well-drained garden soil
  • Hardiness: Fully hardy
  • Wind conditions: Should be placed in a sheltered location
  • Use: Gardens and parks
  • Growth: Medium growing
  • Ripening time: September–October
4
Elegance in the branches
Weeping Mulberry
A medium-sized, broad-crowned tree with drooping branches, dark green heart-shaped leaves and small white flowers that thrive in full sun and nutrient-rich garden soil.
Why it was chosen: The Weeping Mulberry was selected as a representative of decorative fruit trees with a weeping growth form. It combines a distinctive appearance with moderate hardiness and is suitable for both gardens and parks.

The Weeping Mulberry, botanically known as Morus alba 'Pendula', is an ornamental tree with a characteristic weeping growth form. The tree develops a broad crown with downward-arching branches, giving an elegant and tranquil expression in the garden.

The leaves are heart-shaped and dark green, creating a dense and decorative foliage throughout the summer. In May and June, the tree blooms with small white flowers, which may later be followed by light, white fruits in late summer.

The tree thrives best in full sun and in ordinary, nutrient-rich garden soil. It grows moderately and typically reaches a height of about 3 metres and a width of about 2 metres, making it suitable for medium-sized gardens or as a specimen tree in parks.

The Weeping Mulberry is moderately hardy and requires only limited maintenance, making it a practical choice for garden owners who want a decorative tree with a natural, weeping appearance.

  • Weeping growth form: Creates an elegant and distinctive expression in the garden.
  • Flowering in May–June: Small white flowers give a light and summery touch.
  • Fruits: White mulberries that ripen in late summer.
  • Placement: Thrives best in full sun and nutrient-rich garden soil.
  • Size: Approx. 3 metres high and 2 metres wide – suitable for medium-sized gardens.

Pros and cons

  • Decorative weeping growth form
  • Suitable for sunny locations
  • Relatively easy to care for
  • Produces both flowers and fruits
  • Moderate hardiness – may require protection in harsh winters
  • Requires space to spread its broad crown

Pros and cons

Pros

  • Decorative weeping growth form
  • Suitable for sunny locations
  • Relatively easy to care for
  • Produces both flowers and fruits

Cons

  • Moderate hardiness – may require protection in harsh winters
  • Requires space to spread its broad crown

Pros

  • Decorative weeping growth form
  • Suitable for sunny locations
  • Relatively easy to care for
  • Produces both flowers and fruits

Cons

  • Moderate hardiness – may require protection in harsh winters
  • Requires space to spread its broad crown
Pros: The plant has a decorative weeping growth form, thrives well in sunny locations, is relatively easy to care for and produces both flowers and fruits.
Cons: It has only moderate hardiness and may therefore require protection in harsh winters, and it needs plenty of space to spread its broad crown.
Pros: The plant has a decorative weeping growth form, thrives well in sunny locations, is relatively easy to care for and produces both flowers and fruits.
Cons: It has only moderate hardiness and may therefore require protection in harsh winters, and it needs plenty of space to spread its broad crown.

Specifications

  • Botanical name: Morus alba 'Pendula'
  • Type: Fruit tree / ornamental tree
  • Size: Medium-sized
  • Height: Approx. 3 metres
  • Width: Approx. 2 metres
  • Leaf shape: Heart-shaped
  • Leaf colour: Dark green
  • Flower colour: White
  • Flowering period: May – June
  • Fruit colour: White
  • Growth form: Broad-crowned, weeping
  • Growth: Moderately growing
  • Placement: Full sun
  • Soil type: Ordinary nutrient-rich garden soil
  • Hardiness: Moderate
  • Fertilisation level: Medium
  • Use: Gardens and parks
5
Nordic natural power
Common Wild Apple
A native, moderately growing tree with a broad crown, white flowers and small yellow-green fruits. Suitable for gardens, parks and shelterbelts, where it contributes with flowering, autumn colours and food for birds.
Why it was chosen: Common Wild Apple was selected as a representative of the native ornamental apple trees that combine decorative value with ecological significance. It is a robust choice for Danish conditions and an example of a species that is both beautiful and beneficial to nature.

Common Wild Apple (Malus sylvestris) is a moderately growing tree with a naturally spreading and broad crown. The species is native to Denmark and is characterised by its great hardiness and ability to thrive in many soil types, including where the soil is periodically moist.

The leaves are small, oval and fresh green with light yellow autumn colours. Young shoots are brownish-green, while older trunks develop a grey-brown, crust-like bark that can peel off in small flakes.

In spring, the tree is covered with many small white to pinkish-white flowers that attract beneficial insects. Later, small, oval yellow-green fruits of 3–4 cm develop, which are sour in taste. The fruits can be used for jelly or marmalade and serve as food for birds during the winter months.

The tree thrives best in full sun or partial shade and requires no special growing conditions. It can be planted individually, in groups or as part of a shelterbelt, where its wind resistance and natural form are best displayed. When planting, staking is recommended for the first two seasons to ensure good establishment.

  • Native species: Naturally occurring in Denmark and adapted to local conditions.
  • Decorative flowering: Many small white to pinkish-white flowers in spring.
  • Edible fruits: Small yellow-green apples, suitable for jelly and marmalade.
  • High hardiness: Tolerates wind and varied soil types, including moist ground.
  • Ecological value: Attracts insects and provides food for birds.

Pros and cons

  • Robust and wind-resistant tree, suitable for Danish conditions
  • Attracts pollinators and birds
  • Decorative flowering and autumn colour
  • Can be used both as an ornamental tree and in shelterbelts
  • The fruits are sour and not suitable for fresh eating
  • Requires staking during the establishment phase for stable growth

Pros and cons

Pros

  • Robust and wind-resistant tree, suitable for Danish conditions
  • Attracts pollinators and birds
  • Decorative flowering and autumn colour
  • Can be used both as an ornamental tree and in shelterbelts

Cons

  • The fruits are sour and not suitable for fresh eating
  • Requires staking during the establishment phase for stable growth

Pros

  • Robust and wind-resistant tree, suitable for Danish conditions
  • Attracts pollinators and birds
  • Decorative flowering and autumn colour
  • Can be used both as an ornamental tree and in shelterbelts

Cons

  • The fruits are sour and not suitable for fresh eating
  • Requires staking during the establishment phase for stable growth
Pros: The tree is robust and wind-resistant, making it suitable for Danish conditions, while also attracting pollinators and birds, having decorative flowering and beautiful autumn colours, and can be used both as an ornamental tree and in shelterbelts.
Cons: The fruits are sour and not suitable for fresh eating, and the tree requires staking during the establishment phase to ensure stable growth.
Pros: The tree is robust and wind-resistant, making it suitable for Danish conditions, while also attracting pollinators and birds, having decorative flowering and beautiful autumn colours, and can be used both as an ornamental tree and in shelterbelts.
Cons: The fruits are sour and not suitable for fresh eating, and the tree requires staking during the establishment phase to ensure stable growth.

Specifications

  • Botanical name: Malus sylvestris
  • Category: Ornamental apple
  • Main category: Trees
  • Growth form: Broad-crowned
  • Growth: Moderate to vigorous
  • Height: 600–700 cm
  • Width: 300–400 cm
  • Flowering: April–May
  • Flower colour: White to pinkish-white
  • Leaf colour: Green, yellow autumn foliage
  • Fruit colour: Yellow-green
  • Fruit size: 3–4 cm
  • Placement: Full sun or partial shade
  • Hardiness: Fully hardy
  • Soil type: Nutrient-rich, well-drained garden soil; tolerates moist ground
  • Use: Gardens, parks, shelterbelts

Different types of fruit trees

There are many types of fruit trees, each with their own characteristics and requirements for growing conditions.

1. Apple trees

Apple trees are among the most popular and come in a wealth of varieties – from sweet eating apples to tart cooking apples. They thrive in most British gardens and usually require a pollination partner.

2. Pear trees

Pear trees have an elegant growth form and produce juicy fruit with a distinctive aroma. They require warmth and sun to develop flavour and should be planted in a sheltered spot.

3. Plum trees

Plums are easy to grow and produce a rich yield. They come in many colours and sizes, and some varieties are self-pollinating, making them ideal for smaller gardens.

4. Cherry trees

Cherry trees provide both beautiful blossoms in spring and tasty fruit in summer. The sweet varieties often require pollination, while sour cherries manage on their own.

5. Peach and nectarine trees

These trees require more warmth and shelter but can thrive in sunny spots or in a greenhouse. They add an exotic touch to the garden and can be grown in large pots.

Different brands of fruit trees

There are many producers and nurseries that offer high-quality fruit trees. Here are some examples of well-known players on the market.

Jespers Planteskole

Jespers Planteskole offers a wide range of fruit trees adapted to Danish conditions. The range spans from classic varieties to newer hybrids, with a focus on healthy and robust plants.

Plantetorvet

Plantetorvet.dk is one of Denmark’s largest online retailers of plants and fruit trees. They offer many varieties in different sizes and deliver directly to your door.

Lundhede Planteskole

Lundhede is known for quality and professional advice. Their fruit trees are grown under controlled conditions and are suitable for both private gardens and larger plantations.

Bilka Garden Centre

Bilka offers a wide range of fruit trees at reasonable prices. The range is suitable for hobby gardeners who want an easy and quick choice for the garden.

Plantorama

Plantorama combines garden centre and experience environment and offers a varied selection of fruit trees, including both traditional and rarer varieties.

Frequently asked questions

When is the best time to plant fruit trees?

Autumn and early spring are ideal times, as the soil is moist and the tree can establish roots before the growing season begins.

How quickly does a fruit tree bear fruit?

Most fruit trees begin to bear fruit after 2–4 years, depending on the variety and age at planting. Dwarf trees often produce a quicker yield than larger trees.

Should fruit trees be pruned every year?

Yes, light annual pruning helps shape the tree, remove dead branches and promote fruiting. Major pruning should be done in late summer.

Can fruit trees be grown in pots?

Yes, especially dwarf and columnar trees are well suited for pots. Ensure good drainage, regular watering and nutrients during the growing season.

How do I avoid diseases and pests?

Choose robust varieties, plant in good soil and ensure air circulation around the tree. Remove fallen leaves and fruit to reduce the risk of fungus and pests.