[evie2]

I want to add to our little orchard and was thinking about a couple of Apricot, Fig and Pear trees.

The 2 Pear trees are replacements, so I know they will be OK but how easy are the Apricot and Fig to grow?

We're in north Derbyshire, they'll be planted in a reasonably sheltered bit of the garden.

[lancashiregardeninggal]

Figs thrive when having their roots restricted and so are often grown in pots - although they can be planted successfully - preferably with something beneath them to stop the roots from spreading.  I have a single Apricot tree (self-fertile ones are available) but I think they are best trained against a warm wall or fence that gets the most light/heat.

[Christine]

Local grower of fig tree says to "coffin plant" - use paving stone at base and paving stones upright round sides to keep the roots in. His tree is loaded. Well whatever you have to hand I suppose to keep the roots in. He's giving away rooted cuttings too.

[evie2]

I have a south facing garden so I can train the Apricot up the wall and if Figs do well in Northumberland they'll do fine in North Derbyshire too