I'm designing a cozy cottage garden around the south and west sides of my house and want to include classic plants like coneflowers, alliums, delphiniums, foxgloves, hydrangeas, phlox, and yarrow. However, I'm also keen to add some fruiting shrubs or small trees but need advice on what works best in a densely planted cottage-style garden. Any suggestions for fruit trees that thrive in zone 3b, especially considering that I have clay loam soil (with plans to improve it) and ample sunlight? It's also pretty windy around here until my shelter belt grows in, and I'll be using drip irrigation.
3 Answers
Hey there, fellow gardener! I have a tiny tart cherry tree that fits perfectly in my cottagy food forest. It’s surrounded by herbs and produces beautiful flowers. Just keep in mind it can spread through underground shoots. I also love haskaps, which do great in rows! Don't forget that fruiting trees often need a buddy for pollination too!
You’ve got plenty of options! Raspberries like Boyne and Latham are hardy, and I also suggest the thorny Illini Hardy blackberries. For fruit trees, Honey Crisp and Goodland apples thrive here, along with some tart cherry varieties like Evans and Carmine Jewel. Just remember to add compost each spring to keep them happy!
Saskatoon berry is a fantastic choice! They're hardy and thrive well in cottage-style gardens. Also, consider adding elderberries, gooseberries, or redcurrants—they all do really well. I’ve got a dwarf sour cherry tree that's adorable and doesn't need much space at all!
Thanks for all those tips! I’ll definitely take your suggestions into account.