sloe 'Southampton selection'
sloe (syn. Prunus spinosa Southampton selection)
In spring, a profusion of white blossoms graces the landscape, heralding the arrival of a bountiful harvest of rounded, blue-black sloes...
bare root | SJA root stock | 1.2m
£34.99
available to order from autumn 2024
1
Plant description
In spring, a profusion of white blossoms graces the landscape, heralding the arrival of a bountiful harvest of rounded, blue-black sloes in the autumn. These delectable fruits are ideal for making sumptuous sloe gin and jellies. ‘Southampton Selection’ is more manageable and prolific than its wild counterpart, offering a convenient harvest come October. Not only does this spiny and densely branched deciduous tree boast self-fertility and easy cultivation, but it also plays a crucial role in supporting pollinating insects and other wildlife.
Eventual height & spread
Flowering period
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Plant features
Position
Full sun
Rate of growth
Average
Soil
Moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil
Hardiness
Fully hardy
How to care for sloe Southampton selection:
When planting your sloe, prepare a hole up to three times the diameter of its root system. Fork over the base of the pit in readiness, incorporating plenty of organic matter into the backfill and planting hole. Avoiding frozen and waterlogged soil, trees should be planted out as they arrive. If you've ordered a bare root tree, soak the roots in a bucket of water for half an hour prior to planting, or if this is not possible, they can be heeled in temporarily, covering their roots with soil, or potted up. When siting your sloe, select a spot that is sheltered from strong winds to protect the emerging blossoms. Stake your tree to keep it secure while the roots become established, and keep it well watered for the first year or so, especially during hot, dry spells. After planting, maintain a weed-free area around the base of the tree, and use a tree guard if rabbits or deer are an issue. Remarkably low-maintenance, this plant thrives with just light pruning and requires no additional feeding.
Please note:
This plant is deciduous so it will lose all its leaves in autumn, then fresh new foliage appears again each spring.
GOES WELL WITH
How to create a wildlife-friendly garden
Wildlife-friendly gardens are not only more interesting as you can watch all the comings and goings, but they are often more productive as many creatures will help increase pollination. Garden ponds act as a magnet to dragonflies and damsel flies, along w
Read full article