Combination Apple (Semi-Dwarf)

We brought home a Combination Apple tree in February and planted it next to our Friar Plum tree.

Description: Three or more different apple varieties on one tree. Enjoy various fruits throughout the harvest season. An apple orchard that takes very little space. Self-pollinating.

Varieties on the tree that we purchased: Early Fuji Apple, Honey Crisp, Liberty, Red Gravenstein, and Morning Mist or Chehalis (one of the branches was not marked).

It is very interesting to see different leaves growing on the same tree.

Note to self: Add photo

Friar Plum (Semi-Dwarf)

In February 2008, we bought a Friar Plum tree from Costco. Each spring, it produces beautiful white blossoms, but we have not gotten any fruit from it yet. During the last two years, we constantly saw black ants with blossoms climbing down the tree. This year, as soon as Brendan saw ants ascending the tree, he applied some sort of tape around the base. The tape worked in preventing the ants from taking the flowers. Hopefully, we will have some plums this year. I am slightly skeptical as I have not seen very many bees.

The tree can be seen slightly in this photo to the right of the statue of Our Lady of Grace.

Description: Friar has black skin and amber flesh when fully mature. The fruit contains a small pitted freestone that is resistant to cracking. Good cross pollinization with Santa Rosa. Ripens midseason. Needs pollinizer.

Note to self: Take a photo of the plum tree in full bloom to add here.

Bluegold Blueberry

I have decided to be a little unconventional and plant a blueberry in our front yard. We purchased a Bluegold Blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum 'Bluegold'). The following information was included with the plant:

Description: Large clusters of sky blue berries are very easy to pick. Bright orange and scarlet leaves fall leaves with distinctive yellow winter wood. Its compact habit makes a great landscaping selection. Deciduous.

Exposure: Full sun to partial sun

Average Size: 3-5' tall x 3-5' wide

Cold Hardiness: Zone 4/ -30 to -20 F

Bloom Time: Spring

Planting Care: Water regularly as needed. Water thoroughly in times of drought. Remove faded flowers and tattered foliage as they occur. Fertilize in spring just before blooming.

Update: We moved the blueberry to the backyard and planted a Josee reblooming lilac where we had originally planted the blueberry.