SANDY BAR NURSERY BUYER S GUIDE & CATALOG

Transcription

1 SANDY BAR NURSERY BUYER S GUIDE & CATALOG PO BOX 347, ORLEANS, CA, 95556, (530) ABOUT US We have a homestead ranch on the Klamath River where we grow much of our own food and trial the many varieties that we produce and offer in this catalog. I ve worked in organic agriculture for over 20 years as a grower, instructor, consultant and organic farm inspector. I ve always loved trees for their permanence and beauty and for the abundance they provide. My wife, Blythe, is an avid gardener and was involved in organic foods in San Francisco. FIFTEEN YEARS AGO we moved to the Klamath-Trinity Valley of Northern California, where fertile soils and a long growing season allow us to grow an impressive array of fruits, berries and nuts. We are situated in a low elevation valley with long hot summers and cool rainy winters, yet the Klamath Mountains rise around us to over 6,000 feet and include some of the coldest zones in the west. This diversity affords us the opportunity to grow and trial varieties for a very wide range of climates, from the mild, foggy California coast to the hot interior, to the cold, high elevation mountain regions. In fact, we ship our trees across the country, from Maine to Florida, to the Midwest, the Southeast and all up and down the West Coast. WE GROW LARGE, HEALTHY, VIGOROUS STOCK Because of our exceptionally long growing season, our stock tends to be larger than many mail order nurseries, averaging 5/8 to 3/4 inch Mark DuPont & Blythe Reis in the nursery caliper and 4 to 6 feet tall. Starting with a healthy, vigorous tree means a shorter wait for your first fruit. Our customers tell us that our trees establish well and bear fruit early. Unlike many resale and mail order nurseries, we produce most of what we sell. Virtually all of the varieties you see in this catalogue we cultivate in our trial garden and orchards, so we can offer first hand advice on growing fruits, nuts and berries. HEIRLOOM AND UNUSUAL VARIETIES Along with familiar favorites, you ll find we offer many uncommon and heirloom varieties. At one time there were literally hundreds different varieties of apples, pears and peaches. grown in US orchards. Unfortunately this diversity has been replaced by a handful of commercial varieties of mediocre taste, bred to withstand shipping and storage rather than please the palette. Each year we grow out and taste test new varieties from our own orchards and other farms and include the best in our selections. A FRUIT TREE IS ONE OF YOUR BEST INVESTMENTS. Tree-ripened fruit from your own garden will be far superior to anything you can buy in the store, and cost you pennies a pound. Fresh fruit is a valuable source of fiber and water-soluble vitamins and minerals. Trees provide shade, beauty, protection from the wind and help to purify the air. A diverse planting of fruits, nuts and berries will improve the aesthetics and value of any home, while providing a harvest that increases with each year. Page 1 Prices and ordering information on Page 21

2 MORE THAN JUST A CATALOG There are a lot of factors to consider when ordering fruit trees, and we strive to put all the information you need at your fingertips so you can make the right choice. This buyer s guide has evolved from many years of growing fruit, researching and trialing new varieties and offering advice to folks throughout the country. When you re through with it please pass it along to someone who might like it. Thanks for helping to conserve resources! If you don t find the answers to your questions please contact us and we will be glad to help. We spend a lot of time in the nursery and orchard, so E- mail (mail@sandybarnursery.com) is the easiest way to communicate with us, though we do accept phone calls as well. ORGANICALLY GROWN FRUIT TREES We have always farmed organically, building our soil through cover cropping, fallow rotation and composting. We use no chemical fertilizers, pesticides or GMO s. We do source obtain some items (i.e. berries, persimmons, walnuts, grapes) from other conventional nurseries these are clearly labeled as conventional in our catalogue and website. We are certified organic by Global Culture. This seal indicates stock that is organically grown & certified PLEASE REFER TO OUR WEBSITE FOR THE MOST UP TO DATE AVAILABILITY. We are constantly adding new items to our inventory, so the best way to keep up with our new varieties and current inventory is to check our website. Here you ll find photos of most of our fruit and nut varieties as well as lots of information on growing fruits, nuts and berries. We often offer online specials that change from week to week. While you re there you can sign up for our free e-newsletter and use our list of links to other helpful sites. CABINS ON THE KLAMATH RIVER Here on our ranch we also rent riverside redwood cabins, fully equipped with a kitchen/ living room, bedroom, bathroom and outdoor deck. The surrounding mountains and rivers offer abundant opportunities for hiking, biking, swimming, fishing, kayaking, whitewater rafting, and rest and relaxation. Call or write for a free brochure, or visit us online at This catalogue is dedicated to my parents, Alden and Pauline DuPont, who have given me so much and whose lives continue to inspire me Mom passed on to me her love of growing and preparing good food, and Dad travels the world helping to set up village level potable water systems. Like a tree, they are steadfast, generous and supportive. Cover art by Sara Hugdahl Contents Copyright 2006 Sandy Bar Nursery, All rights reserved. CONTENTS APPLES. 3-6 APRICOTS. 8 BERRIES BOOKS CHERRIES.. 6 FIGS.. 14 GRAPES. 13 NECTARINES. 8 NUT TREES 9 PEACHES PEARS, ASIAN PEARS, EUROPEAN 11 PERSIMMON. 10 POMEGRANATES... 8 REFERENCE CHART TIPS ON CHOOSING FRUIT TREES Info on Rootstocks, Climate Zones, Pollination, Chill requirements and more SCENES FROM THE NURSERY.. 15 Order online at Page 2

3 APPLES Apples are the most diverse and widely adapted of all temperate fruits they can be grown in almost every climate region of the country. Here in the US most commercial apples are bred to ripen evenly and withstand shipping and storing. All too often the result is mediocre fruit that does little to inspire. In Europe, on the other hand, where many of our varieties originated, small growers produce a wide variety of fruit for local markets, their diversity is staggering. The flavors and subtleties of apples are discussed with the same vocabulary and passion as wine is among wine connoisseurs. Apples vary tremendously in their color, texture, acid-sugar balance, density of flesh, juiciness, keeping qualities, fragrance, aftertaste and eye appeal. They can be used for cooking, juice or hard cider, baking or fresh eating. Some need to be eaten right off the tree, others will store for months. Plant a small family orchard and you ll be rewarded with an extended harvest of fruit that far excels anything you can buy in the store. A note on apple pollination - Some references list certain apple varieties as self-fertile or partially self-fertile. Our research indicates that climate and weather conditions during bloom plays a large factor. Most experts recommend planting a second variety for pollination to ensure the best production. When a variety is considered by some as self-fertile we use the following phrase: Partially self-fertile, but produces better with a pollenizer. This way you can decide for yourself whether or not to plant a pollenizer for these varieties. Existing neighborhood apple trees within 200 feet will often provide pollination for newly planted ones. Apples are available on three rootstocks. M-111 is a semi-standard rootstock yielding a tree approximately 75% of standard. M-111 is adaptable to a variety of soils and is drought tolerant. M-7 is a semidwarfing rootstock yielding a tree that is 40-50% of standard. M-7 will tolerate heavier soils. Pajam is a popular, cold-hardy dwarfing rootstocks that will yield fruit early, often the first year after planting. It will produce a tree 6-10 feet high. APPLES Note All of our apple trees are organically grown. All varieties are listed in order of ripening to help you plan to spread your harvest throughout the season. JERSEY MAC - This is consistently the earliest apple here at Sandy Bar Ranch; an early McIntosh strain that ripens 2-4 weeks before Macintosh and colors better. Medium to large fruit with 80% red skin over light straw background. Firm, crisp, juicy, aromatic flesh. Upright, spreading tree is vigorous, productive and an annual bearer. USDA zones 3-10, Sunset zones 2-6, 14-16, 34-39, GRAVENSTEIN - A popular early variety well known for it's fine flavor. Thin skin; crisp juicy, fine-grained yellowish white flesh. Unsurpassed for cooking. Large vigorous tree. An early apple, ripening in late July depending on location. Not a keeper. Requires a pollinator. Gravenstein varies considerably in its characteristics our trees are propagated from a beautiful old standard tree here in the Klamath- Trinity Valley that consistently produces large, high-quality fruit.. USDA zones 6-10; Sunset zones 3-11, GALA Gala is one of the rare apples that is praised by both commercial growers and fruit connoisseurs. It has crisp, Page 3 Prices and ordering information on Page 21 APPLES AT A GLANCE Climate Zones: USDA zones 3-10, see individual variety descriptions Pollination: Require a pollenizer. Some other varieties are pollen sterile and will not pollenize other apples. See Pollination Chart & descriptions. Rootstocks: Pajam Dwarf M7A Semidwarf M111 Semistandard Height: 6-10' 8-15' 15-22' Width: 6-10' 8-15' 12-20' Years to Fruit: 1 to 3 2 to 3 3 to 4 Life Expectancy: 20 yrs + 35 yrs + 60 yrs + Yield Mature: 60 LB LB LB dense flesh with a rich aroma and a great snap. The fruit ripens to a glowing red-orange color overlaid with darker red stripes. An excellent quality, sweet apple that ripens early. Tolerates hot climates very well chill hours. USDA zones 4-10; Sunset zones 2-9, 14-22, 30, PINK PEARL Bite into this yellow-skinned apple and you ll be surprised by a bright pink flesh, as well as a refreshing sweet, juicy tartness. Medium sized apple with an attractively blushed skin. Rich, sweet flavor with a fine aroma. Good dessert quality; makes colorful applesauce or pie filling. Place the tree in a focal area of your landscape so you can enjoy the showy crimson blossoms in Spring. Developed in Humboldt County by Albert Etter. 600 chill hours. USDA zones 6-10; Sunset zones 6-8, AKANE - A bright red apple with hard, crisp, juicy white flesh; tart, sprightly flavor and superior disease resistance. Ideal for coastal climates. Very reliable - even in poor fruit years you can count on this tree to have fruit on it. Ripens early. 800 chill hours. USDA zones 5-9, Sunset zones 6-9,

4 LIBERTY If you have problems with disease (scab, rust, fire blight, mildew) or just want a carefree apple that produces consistently, Liberty is your variety. It s the most disease resistant apple ever developed, and places high in taste tests as well. Medium to large, bright, shiny, Macintosh-type fruit with 90% red blush, even in hot climates. Crisp, juicy, light yellow flesh. Sprightly flavor. Good for fresh eating, cooking, canning or desserts. Stores well. Flavor intensifies in storage. Hardy, spreading, vigorous and productive tree. Partially self-fertile, but produces better with a pollenizer. 800 chill hours. USDA zones 4-10, Sunset zones 2-9, 14-22, MUTSU - Mutsu combines the best qualities of a Yellow Delicious and Granny Smith. Very large fruit is firmer and crisper than Golden Delicious with more juice and tartness. An excellent all purpose apple. Keeps well, does not shrivel like Golden Delicious. One of the favorite apples here at Sandy Bar Ranch. Large, spreading, vigorous tree is a reliable, early producer. Pollen sterile - requires a pollenizer and will not pollenize other apples chill hours. USDA zones 4-10; Sunset zones 4-9, 14-22, striping over a yellow background. Good for cooking and eating. Stores well. Ripens mid-season. Pollinate with Golden Delicious, Lodi, McIntosh, Melrose, or a mid season bloomer. USDA zones 5-9 COX S ORANGE PIPPIN A legendary apple which has won taste tests for years in England. Medium size conical fruit with red stripes over orange skin. Firm, tender, juicy, aromatic yellow flesh. Distinctive flavor, mellow aftertaste and unsurpassed aroma. Excellent processing apple for desserts, pies, cooking and cider. Keeps from October to January. Ripens mid-september to mid- October, depending on location. USDA zones 4-10, Sunset zones 2-9, GOLDEN DELICIOUS, BATES STRAIN- Not all Golden Delicious apples are created equally. This is an old California strain selected for its superior quality by the Apple Farm, Philo CA, grower of over 60 varieties of heirloom apples. It ripens to a perfect balance of crisp sweetness and develops an attractive blush. A high quality all purpose apple that is widely adapted and good pollenizer. USDA zones 5-9. Sunset zones 1-3, 7-11, 14-24, chill hours. KING - A highly prized apple that is highly recommended for West Coast climates. Crisp, sweet, white flesh. Red Most apples require another apple variety for pollination. Some are pollen sterile and will not pollenize other varieties. To use the Pollination Chart: 1. Select the desired variety from the top of the chart 2. Potential pollenizers are listed in the column beneath the desired variety 3. If the intersecting square is white the variety will be pollenized. 4. If the intersecting square is black the variety will not be pollenized 5. A grey square indicates a self-fertile variety. If you can t find a variety on this chart, please see our website. Apple Pollination Chart Variety Pollenated Jersey Mac Jonathan Gravenstein Idared Pink Pearl Akane Empire Williams Pride Ash Mead's Kernal Braeburn Cherry Cox Cox's Orange Pippin Fuji Gala Granny Smith Liberty Mutsu Spitzenburg Waltana Golden Delicious Arkansas Black Hauer Newtown Pippin Pollen Source Early Bloom Mid Season Bloom Jersey Mac Jonathan Gravenstein Idared Pink Pearl Akane Empire Williams Pride Ash Mead's Kernal Braeburn Cherry Cox Cox's Orange Pippin Fuji Gala Granny Smith Liberty Mutsu Spitzenburg Waltana Golden Delicious Arkansas Black Hauer Newtown Pippin Early Mid Season Bloom Order online at Page 4

5 CHERRY COX Several years ago we planted and grafted over twenty up and coming apple varieties and put them to the test this is one that became a winner. A dense, red apple with a sweet, spicy aroma and a distinct, tart, cherry aftertaste. It is an excellent cooking apple, full-flavored for fresh eating, and stores extremely well. It was bred in Denmark from the renowned Cox s Orange Pippin, one of Europe s most sought-after apples. The Cherry Cox is more vigorous and disease resistant than it s finicky parent, thus easier to grow. USDA zones 4-9; Sunset zones 2-9, ASHMEAD'S KERNAL - Widely recognized in Europe as one of the all time finest-flavored apples. Flattish round shape, with crisp yellow flesh and heavily russeted skin that will blush nicely if left to tree ripen. Flavor is tart at first, then mellowing to an excellent sugar-acid balance after harvest. Top-notch cider or fresh eating apple. Rated first in quality in a blindfold taste test conducted by the Royal Horticultural Society. Good keeper. Midseason apple. USDA zones 5-9; Sunset zones 4-9, 14-16, 18. GRANNY SMITH One day in the mid 1850 s Marie Ann Granny Smith returned from the market in Sydney Australia with some empty gin cases that contained a few rotting Tasmanian apples. She threw them in a corner in her yard and thought no more of them. Years later one of the seedlings matured and bore what was to become one of the world s best-known apples, the Granny Smith. Large, waxy green fruit ripens late in the season, makes great pies and applesauce. The classic green apple for fresh eating chill hours. USDA zone 6-10; Sunset zones 4-11; 14-16, 18, pollen sterile and it will not pollenize other apples. USDA zones 6-9; Sunset zones 1-7, 14, 15. WALTANNA - A local favorite. Medium to large fruit, red striped over green skin. The crisp flesh has plenty of sugar even when under ripe; often picked green and allowed to ripen in storage. Good keeper. Tree is vigorous, healthy and a regular producer. Ripens October - November, depending on location. An heirloom variety developed by Albert Etter in Humboldt County. USDA zones 6-9; Sunset 6-9, 14-16, 18. HAUER PIPPIN This is an uncommon find a seedling of Cox's Orange Pippin, which originated in the Santa Cruz Mts. Bright red skin; dense, thick flesh, excellent keeper, sweet, rich complex flavor with a caramel aftertaste. Known as the Christmas Apple, because it is late ripening and can hang on the tree through December. One of the best late season apples, withstands high summer temperatures. Highly sought in the Santa Cruz region, where it is still grown commercially. USDA zones 6-9; Sunset 6-9, 14-16, 18. RED FUJI - A red varient of everyone's favorite crisp, sweet eating apple chill hours. USDA zones 6-10, Sunset zones 4-10, 14-22, 31-37, GINGERGOLD - A vigourous tree that produces bountiful crops of large, attractive golden apples. Crisp and with a spicy/sweet flavor, the fruit can keep up to 6 months with proper storage. Sunset Zones: 1-9, USDA zones: 5-9a ZABERGRAU REINETTE Don t let the name throw you off, this is one of the finest apples we ve tasted. This unusual selection stood out in a trial of several new varieties here at the Ranch. A late ripening, russeted apple with dense flesh and a rich, complex flavor that is at once tart, sweet and nutty. The fruit is large and keeps very well. Resistant to scab. USDA zone 6-10; Sunset zones 4-11; 14-16, 18. SPITZENBURG Anything that remains popular for 300 years has something going for it. This was Thomas Jefferson's favorite apple, and is still cited by apple connoisseurs as one of the finest. Don t pick it all at once it ripens unevenly and must be harvested over several weeks. Leave it on the tree or store it to develop the rich aromatic flavor and fine-grained texture. Excellent keeper; attains a yellow-orange color when ready for eating. Ripens in September-October, depending on location. USDA zones 3-9; Sunset zones 1-7, 10-16, 18. A basket of fresh-picked apples from our orchard. ARKANSAS BLACK - Extremely beautiful, medium size, smooth round, dark purplish red fruits, which turn nearly black at maturity. Crisp, juicy, very firm yellow flesh, good for fresh eating or cooking. Distinctive aromatic flavor lends itself well to cider blending. Late season, Excellent keeper, mellows in storage. Large, vigorous tree. This variety is Page 5 Prices and ordering information on Page 21

6 CHERRIES RAINIER A cross between two excellent cherries, Van and a Bing, Rainier is an attractive yellow cherry with a red blush. Firm, sweet and sprite. Exceptional holding ability after harvest, resists cracking. Tolerates cold winters and hot summers. Lighter colored cherries suffer less bird damage. Pollenize with Black Tartarian or Bing. 600 chill hours. STELLA Large, heart-shaped dark red fruit, rich and juicy. Self-fertile tree is ideal for home orchards. A late season cherry. 700 chill hours. USDA zones 5-9. LAPINS - A new introduction from Canada, very similar to Bing, but self-fertile. A large, sweet, dark red cherry. Needs no pollenizer. 800 chill hours. MONTMORENCY This is the standard of excellence for sour cherries, outstanding for pies, cobblers and jams. Tree is extremely winter hardy and very prolific, and more tolerant of heavy soils, cold and drought than sweet cherries. Self- fertile. 700 chill hours. Cherries are the first tree fruit of the season, providing that precious, early fresh fruit, pies, cobblers and jams. They prefer a well-drained soil and consistent watering. Available on semi-dwarf Krymsk 5 rootstock. and Standard Mazzard rootstock. CHERRIES AT A GLANCE Sweet cherries USDA zones 5-9, Sunset zones 2,6,7,14-18, 32, 34-37, 39 Climate Zones: Montmorency USDA zone 3, Sunset zones 1-9, 14-17, Chill Requirement: Pollination: hours Most sweet cherries require a pollenizer; Lapins, Stella & Montmorency are self-fertile. Rootstocks: Krymsk 5 Mazzard Height: Width: Years to First Fruit: Life Expectancy: 30 years + 35 years + Yield when Mature: 60 LB LB Cherries are organically grown and listed in order of ripening. UTAH GIANT This large sweet cherry has won numerous taste tests in California trials. Superb fresh, also a good canner. Pollenize with Bing or Rainier. 800 chill hours. PEACHES Nothing tastes like a tree-ripened peach. Store bought peaches just can t compete with what you can produce in your own garden. Peaches prefer well-drained, fertile soils and plenty of sun. If peach leaf curl is a problem in your area choose one of our resistant varieties, or consult our website for information on organic control of curl, (it s simply a matter of two well-timed sprays). Semi-dwarf Pumiselect rootstock is 50-60% smaller than standard, and is better adapted to heavy soils. BING Bing has become the standard by which all other cherries are measured. A large, firm, juicy, sweet cherry, nearly black when ripe. Pollenize with any other cherry listed. 700 chill hours. Order online at Page 6

7 PEACHES AND NECTARINES AT A GLANCE Climate Zones: USDA zones 5-10 Chill Requirement: hours Most Peaches are self-pollinating, Pollination: with the exceptions of JH Hale & Indian Blood Rootstock: Pumiselect Height: 12-16' Width: 10-14' Years till Fruit: 2 to 3 Life Expectancy: 20 to 30 years Yield when Mature: LB Our peaches are organically grown and listed in order of ripening. STRAWBERRY FREE Large, creamy white freestone fruit mottled with red, flesh is marbled with a strawberry color. This variety has an excellent sweet-acid balance, giving it a rich and aromatic flavor. A long time favorite in Northern California. Sunset zones 7-9, 14-16, chill hours. FLAVORCREST Excellent quality, very firm, yellowfleshed peach with sweet, yellow, semi- freestone flesh. Vigorous tree is a reliable producer. Ripens very early, so you ll be sure to have some of the first peaches in your neighborhood. Sunset zones 7-9, 14,-16, 18. RED HAVEN - Proven to be one of the most consistent, and productive varieties for the Klamath Region. Medium to large sized, red skinned; nearly fuzz-less with firm, yellow flesh becoming freestone as it ripens. Excellent all purpose peach for canning, freezing or fresh eating. Tree is vigorous and bears early. Abundant fruit set requires early, thorough thinning. On Pumiselect rootstock. 800 chill hours. Sunset zones 3-12, 14-16, BABCOCK - A white-fleshed peach; firm, juicy and aromatic; Semi-freestone flesh tinged red around the pit. Skin is almost fuzz less. Heavy bearing, self-fruitful tree. Ripens in July, depending on location. A long time favorite chill hours. NECTAR WHITE - An old California variety that some consider to be the finest. Large fruit with a dark pink blush over a cream background. White, freestone flesh tinged with red is sweet, with exceptional flavor and aroma. Has a nice acid balance, not solely sweet like some white peaches. Bruises easily. 800 to 1,050 chill hours. Above average frost hardiness. Ripens 22 days before Elberta. SATURN - Here s a peach that's just as tasty to the eye as it is to the palette. Saturn bears a spectacular bloom of large pink flowers followed by a large, warm yellow fruit that is very sweet and low acid. Low chilling requirement makes is a good peach for southern regions. Sunset zones 4-12, 14-16, chill hours. ROSA - This peach has gained local notoriety among both farmers and home gardeners as a consistent producer of excellent quality fruit. Large, firm, yellow-fleshed freestone fruit with a red blush. Good for fresh eating as well as canning. Sunset zones 2-11, 14-16, ELBERTA FAY - Yellow fruit with firm, fine-grained, yellow, freestone flesh. Excellent flavor. Good fresh or frozen. Self-fertile tree with showy pink flowers. Blooms earlier than Elberta. Prolific bearer, needs thinning in Spring/ early Summer. Sunset zones 2-11, 14-16, Q A peach leaf curl resistant white peach! No need to spray this one. This peach has little fuzz, a fine grained white flesh and is semi-freestone. Regular bearer with showy blossoms. Great for fresh eating but too soft for canning. 700 to 800 chill hours. INDIAN BLOOD - A blood peach is like no other fruit. A large fruited peach with dark crimson skin and flesh, it has a distinctive tart flavor when ripe. Excellent fresh, a favorite for preserves, jams and chutneys. Tree is dependable, a high yielder and disease resistant. 800 chill hours. Sunset zones 1-3, 6-11, RIO OSO GEM A large peach with yellow, fine-grained flesh turning red towards the stone, bright red skin. Selffertile tree is relatively small but productive, with showy blossoms. A very popular commercial variety as it holds its firmness yet is high quality. On St. Julien rootstock. Sunset zones 3, 7-9, 14-16, 18. LAST CHANCE The end of peach season is always a sad affair; this variety delays that by several weeks. We usually harvest this peach around September 21, truly the last chance to eat a fresh peach. It s a beautiful, large, red-skinned peach with marbled crimson-orange flesh. Very firm, exceptional taste, ideal for fresh eating or canning. RICK LANDT There s a story to this peach. Over ten years ago we were given a handful of seeds from an old peach tree in an abandoned orchard. Not only had the venerable tree survived years of neglect, it also managed to produce beautiful, sumptuous peaches, an unusual feat for a neglected peach. We planted the seeds and waited. All of our years of waiting and testing have paid off one of our seedlings has matured into a gorgeous tree that produces heavy crops of beautiful orange-fleshed peaches very late in the season (mid late September in our region of Northern California, even after Last Chance, previously the latest peach in our collection). What s more, after four years this tree has proven completely resistant to peach leaf curl! Page 7 Prices and ordering information on Page 21

8 NECTARINES Nectarines are peaches with no fuzz. Other than this, they are managed just like peach trees. All nectarines are on Pumiselect semi-dwarf rootstock. Our nectarines are organically grown and listed in order of ripening. INDEPENDENCE - A white-fleshed fruit with deep red skin - Excellent tangy flavor. One of the best. Hardy to winter cold. Produces consistently in our area. 700 chill hours. USDA zones 5-9. MERRICREST - A very cold-hardy nectarine that will fruit even after a sub-zero winter, Merricrest is also resistant to peach leaf curl. Blooms late to miss Spring rains. Red skinned fruit with yellow flesh and a rich, tangy flavor that is highly regarded in taste testings. 800 chill hours. Sunset zones 1-3, 6-11, 14-16, FANTASIA Harvest this one firm ripe for a tangy flavor or soft ripe for the melting, sweet, juicy run-down-your-chin fruit. Large oval fruit, freestone, yellow fleshed with bright red skin. APRICOTS Apricots are a sumptuous treat - golden orange with a fragrant, melting flesh. When planting apricots, look for the right microclimate, a knoll or rise that cold air drains away from is ideal. If possible, plant to avoid the early winter sun, it's those first warm days that can break dormancy too early in the year. Available on semi-dwarf Citation or Marianna rootstock Apricots are organically grown PUGET GOLD - If you ve had poor luck with apricots then this is the one to try. It was developed in Washington State specifically to beat the rains and frosts of the Pacific Northwest. Prolific bearer of large, elongated yellow-gold fruit. 700 chill hours. USDA zones 6-9. TOMCOT A new variety that has quickly gained popularity for its large, high quality fruit and consistent yields. Firm, very sweet flesh. Self-fertile but yields best if crosspollenized with another apricot variety. On standard seedling rootstock. BLENHEIM (ROYAL) Blenheim sets the standard for apricots; a large, sweet, aromatic, freestone apricot; deep orange color with red dots; excellent for fresh eating, canning and drying. 500 chill hours. Sunset zones 2, 3, APRICOTS AT A GLANCE Climate Zones: USDA zones 4-9, Sunset zones vary by variety but include Chilling Requirement: hours Pollination: Self-Fertile Rootstock: Semi-dwarf Semi-dwarf Krymsk 1 Marianna 2624 Height: 12-16' Width: 8-12' Years to Fruit: 2 to 3 2 to 3 Life Expectancy: 20 to 30 years years POMEGRANATE Pomegranates are considered subtropical, yet they are cold-hardy to Sunset zone 5 (Northwestern Washington). They have attractive bright green to golden foliage which puts on a great show in autumn. They ripen late in the season and keep well, providing precious winter fruit. The fruit prefers a hot summer. Shrub grows to approximately 10 feet. They are self-fruitful and bear heavily, even when young. USDA zones 7-10; Sunset zones Pomegranates are conventionally grown. Climate Zones: Chilling Requirement: Pollination: Height: Width: Years to First Fruit: Yield When Mature Life Expectancy: POMEGRANATES AT A GLANCE USDA zones 7-10, Sunset zones 5-24; 1-4, in container hours Self-fertile 6-15 feet 6-15 feet to 50 LB, years WONDERFUL This is the best-known pomegranate, with sweet, bright red fruit, showy, carnation-like flowers, and attractive foliage that is shiny in the spring and summer, turning to a beautiful yellow-red in the fall. AMBROSIA Fantastically huge fruits: up to three times the size of Wonderful. Pale pink skin, purple sweet-tart juice, similar to Wonderful. Long-lived, any soil. Inland or coastal climate. 150 hours. SWEET Named because the fruit is less acid than other pomegranate varieties. Fruit remains a light green with red blush, even when ripe. GRENADA Chance shoot from a Wonderful pomegranate. Fruit is darker in color and less tart than Wonderful. Can be trained into a bush or tree form. Ripens 30 days before Wonderful. Order online at Page 8

9 NUT TREES NUTS are an important element in a balanced diet, rich in protein, oils, natural fiber and complex carbohydrates. Nuts are also an important source of trace minerals and anti-oxidants. Chestnuts and walnuts are large, majestic trees, which yield valuable timber as well as shade, windbreak and wildlife habitat. Almonds and filberts are intermediate size trees that can work well in the garden. FILBERTS Filberts (also known as hazelnuts) have a deliciously sweet flavor, good for baking and confections, raw or roasted. The filbert is one of 14 crops selected by the book One Circle for providing a balanced diet in a minimum growing area. The nuts are an excellent source of carbohydrates, protein and balanced amino acids. Homegrown nuts are extremely flavorful, rich in oils and subtle tastes. We have picked out the filbert varieties that have proved themselves productive in home orchards. Plant at least two varieties, within 50 feet of one another, for pollination. Sunset zones 2-7, 14-16; hardy to zone 4. FILBERTS AT A GLANCE Climate Zones: USDA zones 4-9, Sunset zones 2-9, 14-20, Chilling Requirement: 800-1,600 hours Pollination: Requires a pollenizer Height: feet Width: feet Years to First Fruit: 2-4 Yield When Mature 20 LB + Life Expectancy: 50 years CASINA Superior new variety recommended for backyard plantings. Thin-shelled nut with excellent flavor. Heavy producer. ENNIS A proven standard produces lots of large nuts. Cold hardy to 15 degrees; ripens early. BUTLER -Large oval nut with good flavor and high yields. A good pollenizer. Pollenize with any other filbert Almonds and filberts are organically grown. ALMONDS ALMOND trees are handsome, resembling peaches in form. Almonds have the highest protein content of all the nuts. They are rich in protein, monounsaturated fats, calcium and vitamin E, (a natural anti-oxidant), and trace minerals. ALL-IN-ONE ALMOND This is the almond for home orchards it s semi-dwarf, so it won t get too large, selffertile, so you only need one, and bears prolific crops of sweet, soft-shelled almonds. We are in a marginal almond growing area yet we ve had almonds every year on our 5- year-old tree. Good pollenizer for other almonds. 500 chill hours. USDA zones 6-9. Sunset zones 6-10, 12-16, 19-21, 29, 30, 33, 35 TITAN - The hardiest known true almond variety. Blooms late to avoid early frosts. Produces well-sealed, thin shelled nuts. Pollenize with All-in-One almond, or a peach. USDA zones 5-9. WALNUTS A handsome, spreading tree, walnuts are great for shade and a single tree will produce 100 LB or more of high-protein nuts. The nuts are delicious and high in Omega 3 oils. Walnuts are self-fruitful once they mature, but they will come into bearing earlier and produce more if pollenized with another variety. Grows to 50 feet. Walnuts require approximately 700 hours of chill. Sunset zones 4-9, 14-23; hardy to USDA zone 5. Walnut trees are conventionally grown. WALNUTS AT A GLANCE Climate Zones: Sunset zones 4-9, 14-23, 29-33, Hardy to USDA zone 5 Chilling Requirement: Approx. 700 hours Pollination: Not required, but will bear earlier and more prolifically with a pollenizer Rootstock: Seedling Height: 30-40', (Pedro 16 20)' Width: (Pedro 12-16) Years to Fruit: 5 Life Expectancy: 100 years PEDRO - A small tree, less than 2/3 the size of a standard walnut tree. Nuts are medium-sized, well sealed and reportedly the finest flavor, having won consumer taste tests. This variety is for those who want a full-sized nut, but have limited space. IDAHO - Another walnut with very large nuts and highquality sweet meats. Thin shells crack easily by hand. This is a Carpathian variety, thus is even more cold tolerant than Carmelo, can withstand 20 degrees. Vigorous tree produces prolific crops. CARMELO - Produces extremely large nuts. Tree tolerates both heat and cold well. Page 9 Prices and ordering information on Page 21

10 BERRIES All berry plants are conventionally grown. BLUEBERRIES Blueberries are delectable in pies, jams, muffins, pancakes, or just fresh off the bush. High in anti-oxidants and vitamin C. In the landscape, the plants offer rich green foliage, striking fall color and beautiful winter wood. Plant at least two varieties for cross-pollination. Grow four to six feet tall. USDA zones 4-7; Sunset Zones 2-9, , DUKE - Duke is one of the heaviest, most consistent producers, often yielding over 20 LB per bush when mature! An early, medium to large bright blue berry, it has the advantage of blooming late, to miss spring frosts, but ripening early. BLUECROP The leading commercial variety in North America, many professional berry growers consider Bluecrop to be the best all around variety for consistent yields, high quality fruit and disease resistance. 4-6 feet tall. BERKELEY - One of the most popular home garden varieties. This handsome, easy to grow bush attains a size of 5-6 feet high and wide when mature. An excellent producer in mild climates, Berkeley boasts a very attractive powder blue fruit with a pleasing mild flavor. Bright yellow wood in the winter makes a nice contrast to other red wooded varieties. Avoid frost pockets or colder exposed areas. TORO - Toro has earned a reputation as a heavy yielding variety with large, sky-blue fruit and delectable berries. A dense, compact bush with outstanding ornamental quality as well, the deep green foliage turns a striking red in the fall. RASPBERRIES Raspberries are hard to beat they re extremely adaptable, can be grown in all western climate zones, have a unique flavor that is both rich and delicate, provide fresh fruit early in the spring, and will bear fruit the year they are planted. Hardy to USDA zone 3 HERITAGE EVERBEARING These strong, vigorous, selfsupporting canes produce abundant crops of superior quality dark red berries. An old variety, proven to be one of the best. You ll get two picks one in June/July and a heavy fall crop in September. Excellent for fresh eating, canned, jams, frozen or desserts. CANBY - The only thornless raspberry you ll find, Canby has become a favorite here on our ranch due to its very large berries and excellent flavor. The vigorous canes are cold hardy and very productive, an everbearing variety that spans a long harvest season beginning late spring/ early summer. MORE BERRIES TAYBERRY A cross between a black raspberry and a loganberry. Very large, sweet berries ripen to a deep reddish black. Introduced from Scotland in 1979, it has rapidly spread throughout temperate zones due to its flavor and productivity. Sunset zones 4-9, BOYSENBERRY An outstanding nearly seedless berry that is extremely large (2-3"). Has a distinctly rich and tangy flavor. The purple-black berries are very soft, which is why you never see them in stores. Excellent for fresh eating, juice, freezing, canning, and desserts. A hybrid of raspberry, blackberry, and loganberry. Hardy to -14 F. USDA Zones 5-9. BLACK SATIN THORNLESS BLACKBERRY - Large, firm, oblong 2" glossy black berries. Delicious, sweet flavor. Excellent for jams, pies, jellies, and fresh eating. Heavy yielding, semi-erect, thornless vines. Self fruitful, yet more productive with another variety close by. Ripens in July. Excellent for Northwest. Winter hardy for Midwest and South. Not for eastern coastal plains or Gulf Coast. Hardy to -15 degrees and up to USDA zone 9. PERSIMMONS Persimmons ripen late in the season and store well, providing fresh fruit into the winter months. They are excellent fresh and prized for cooking and baking. Dried persimmons are the sugar plums of traditional Christmas celebrations, a delicious, chewy, date-like treat. The tree is highly ornamental, with large glossy leaves that turn to flaming reds and orange into the fall and fruits that hang on the tree long after the leaves have dropped. The tree is trouble free with few pests, has a low chilling requirement, is self-fruitful, tolerates heavy soils, and needs little pruning once the framework is established. Persimmons are conventionally grown PERSIMMONS AT A GLANCE Climate Zones: USDA zones 7-11, Sunset zones 6-9, 14-16, 18-23, 26, Chilling hours Requirement: Pollination: Self-fertile Height: Can be kept to 15 feet by pruning, up to 30 feet if unpruned Width: Up to 30 feet, less if pruned Years to First 2-5 Fruit: Life Expectancy: years FUYU Non-astringent persimmon that can be eaten when firm, like an apple. Shiny red orange fruit is round and squat, very sweet. HACHIYA Large acorn-shaped fruit must be fully ripe to eat or it is astringent. Extremely productive and highly prized for baking. Dries to a very sweet, chewy date-like consistency. Order online at Page 10

11 PEARS Pears are easy to grow and one of the most reliable and delicious of temperate fruits. Pears can tolerate heavier, wetter soils than most fruit trees, but avoid planting in waterlogged soils. European pears must be ripened off the tree to attain the fragrance, melting, buttery texture and intense flavor that make pears so sumptuous. Asian pears can be left to ripen on the tree, which will yield a sweeter fruit than those found in the store. Asian Pears are available on Pyrus communis standard, which is hardy to -35 F. Needs consistent watering and is tolerant of wet soils. European pears are available on OHxF 333 semi-dwarf, which will produce a tree 50-70% of standard rootstock. Resistant to fire blight and pear decline. Does not sucker and produces a well anchored, productive tree. PEARS AT A GLANCE BARTLETT - The standard for pears, comprising 75% of all US and Canadian production. Large, golden yellow fruit, Smooth, juicy, melting white flesh with a pleasant touch of tartness. Excellent for fresh eating, canning, preserves and baking; the best for drying. Ripen off the tree for one week to develop full flavor. Long-lived tree is medium sized, compact, upright, vigorous, and highly productive. Requires 800 chill hours. USDA zones 5-9; Sunset zones 2-9, 14-18, RED BARTLETT - A red variety of Bartlett. An excellent pear ripening to an orange- red; is somewhat sweeter than the standard Bartlett. Older trees will need structural thinning to allow sunlight penetration for coloring of fruit. Slightly more fire blight resistant than Bartlett. 700 chill hours. USDA zones 5-9; Sunset zones 2-9, 14-18, ORCAS Huge fruit resembles Bartlett pear in appearance and taste, with yellow skin with a carmine blush. Excellent for fresh eating, canning and drying. Plus, it s scab resistant! A big plus in areas with heavy spring rainfall where scab is prevalent. USDA zones 5-9; Sunset zones 2-9, 14-18, 32-3 BOSC - Beautiful, medium to large, gold to brown fruit with russeted skin and a long gourd-like neck. Tender, aromatic, juicy smooth textured white flesh. Excellent for eating, cooking and preserves. A good keeper. A large upright tree; slow growing, late blooming, very productive and reliable chill hours. USDA zones 5-9; Sunset zones 2-9, 14,15, Our European Pears are organically grown and listed in order of ripening Climate Zones: Chilling Requirement: European: USDA zone 4 9; Sunset zones 2-9, 14-18, Asian - USDA zone 5-10; Sunset zones 3-12, 14-21, European: hours Asian Pear: Plant two varieties (European and/or Asian) Pollination: for pollination Rootstocks: OHxF 333 Seedling (European Pears) (Asian Pears) Height: Width: Years to First Fruit: Life 35 years + 50 years + Expectancy: Yield when LB LB mature Pear Espalier shows its autumn colors at Sandy Bar Ranch Page 11 Prices and ordering information on Page 21

12 on semi-dwarf Krymsk 5 and semi-standard Marianna rootstock. ASIAN PEARS Asian Pears are uniquely delicious, with the shape and crunchiness of an apple, and the flavor of a pear. The trees have an upright growth habit, attractive foliage that turns beautiful orange in the fall, and tolerate a wide range of soils. Very disease resistant and fairly trouble free. They have a lower chill requirement and can be grown in areas with warmer winters. Plant two varieties for pollination, or use any European pear as a pollenizer. USDA zone 5-10; Sunset zones 3-12, 14-21, Betulifolia standard rootstock. Asian Pears are organically grown. CHOJURO - A beautiful bronze fruit, Chojuro has crisp white aromatic flesh, a butterscotch-like flavor and keeps well. The tree is medium size, with a spreading habit and will bear early and reliably. Pollinate with Bartlett, Hosui, or 20th Century. KOSUI - Medium sized yellow fruit with an attractive bronze russet. Crisp, crunchy, juicy flesh with a spicy flavor. Very sweet, ripens mid-july to August, depending on location. YOINASHI The highest sugar content of any Asian Pear. Round fruit with a warm gold russet, it has firm, crisp flesh and is extremely juicy. 400 chill hours. PLUMS Plums are organically grown and listed in order of ripening. PLUMS AT A GLANCE Climate Zones: USDA zones 5 to 10, Sunset zones 2-12, Chilling European: hours Requirement: Japanese: hours European Party self-fertile, pollenizer will improve production. Pollination: Japanese - Pollination with another variety required. See Pollination Chart. Rootstocks: Semi-dwarf Semi-standard Krymsk 1 Mariana 2426 Height: 12-16' Width: 8-10' 8-12 Years to Fruit: 2 to Life expectancy: 20 to 30 yrs 30 yrs + CAMP JOY SAUNA A Sandy Bar Nursery exclusive this plum originated from a chance seedling at Camp Joy Garden in the Santa Cruz Mts. The amber flesh has a smooth, melting apricot flavor. An exceptional fruit, produces abundant crops, yet there are never enough of these to go around here on the ranch. Ripens about 10 days before Santa Rosa. Sunset zones 6-12, BEAUTY - A sweet and flavorful plum that is replacing Santa Rosa as it is more adaptive and produces well in cooler, rainy climates. Reddish purple skin. Amber flesh streaked with red. Consistently heavy crops. Self-fruitful chill hours. USDA zones 5-9; Sunset zones 2,3, 6-10, 12, 14-20, SANTA ROSA WEEPING PLUM This is one of the more productive varieties of weeping plum, with consistent yields of high quality fruit and long slender limbs that weep gracefully to the ground chill hours. Sunset zones 2,3, 5-12, 14-23, JAPANESE PLUMS are generally larger and juicier than Europeans plums. They bloom early and require a pollenizer, so be sure to plant at least two varieties within 50 feet of each other, or plant your new tree next to an existing plum. Japanese plums can be pollenized by early blooming American (wild, or "seed") plums. All varieties are available MARIPOSA Also known as Improved Satsuma, a large plum with beautiful deep maroon flesh and a small pit. Semi-freestone, juicy fruit is great for fresh eating or cooking. Low chilling requirement, good for coastal and southern climates. 250 chill hours. Sunset zones 7-12, ELEPHANT HEART - A long time favorite for home orchards, Elephant Heart produces large, heart-shaped plums with sweet, juicy, richly flavored firm blood red flesh. Ripens when most plums are long gone, in September, so you can spread your plum harvest throughout the year. Prolific Order online at Page 12

13 bearer. Self-fruitful but does best when pollenized with any of the plums listed. 500 chill hours. USDA zones 5-9. EUROPEAN PLUMS are generally smaller than Japanese plums with a wider range of flavors. They have a rich, sweet flavor which is delicious fresh, unparalleled for preserves or baking, and dry into the celebrated prune. They bloom later than Japanese plums and are more winter hardy. Available on Citation semi-dwarf rootstock. BLUE DAMSON A vigorous tree that bears prolific crops of small, round blue fruits borne in clusters. Each year our tree is covered with fruit, and not a single one is wasted. Tart fruit with a uniquely rich flavor they are truly delicious dried and are used to make a famous Damson plum preserve that is revered in Europe. 800 chill hours. Sunset zones 2-23, BROOKS This is similar to the immensely popular Italian prune plum, but about twice the size. Large, purplish black fruit with juicy amber flesh. Excellent for fresh eating, canning, drying and cooking. Sunset Zones 2-12, 14-18, 33-41, USDA zones 5-9. GRAPES Grapes are one of the oldest of cultivated fruits, and for a good reason. They are easy to grow, yield abundantly and provide fruit, juice, preserves, shade and beauty. Plant 6 to 12 feet apart and support the long vines with a trellis or arbor. All grapes listed here are conventionally grown. GRAPES AT A GLANCE USDA zones 5 to 10, for Sunset Climate Zones: zones see descriptions. Chilling Requirement: hours Pollination: Self-fertile Yield When Mature LB/ vine Years to Fruit: 1-2 Life expectancy: Up to 100 years INTERLAKEN - Extremely prolific and delectable, amber seedless berries which ripen in August, before Himrod. Tangy-sweet flavor. Requires less heat to ripen and is resistant to powdery mildew, thus ideal for coastal as well as inland climates. A Sandy Bar favorite. USDA zones 5-9, Sunset zones 1-11, 14-22, 24, VENUS - Sweet and crispy bluish black grapes borne in large, well-filled clusters. Good for fresh eating, preserves, and wine. Very vigorous and productive vines. Disease resistant, and the fruit is resistant to cracking. USDA zones 5-9. HIMROD - Hybrid of Thompson Seedless and American Grape. Excellent quality golden yellow, seedless berries Page 13 Prices and ordering information on Page 21 have a crisp, delicate flavor. Very sweet. Disease resistant. More winter hardy than Interlaken. USDA zones 5-9, Sunset zones 1-11, 14-22, 24, GLENORA - A delicious medium-sized seedless grape that ripens to a deep bluish black. Thin, smooth skin, finely textured berry with sweet, spicy highly flavored flesh. Hardy to -10 degrees. FLAME SEEDLESS - This is the red seedless grape most commonly found in grocery stores. Crisp, sweet, light red berries hang in loose clusters and are excellent fresh, as raisins or for juice. Hardy and vigorous vine needs little winter chill and is very productive. USDA zones 6-10, Sunset zones 5-11, 14-22, 24. CANADICE - A red seedless grape that bears large, well-filled clusters 6-8 inches long. Excellent spicy flavor, the grapes hold well on the vine. Hardy to 15 degrees. Sunset zones 1-11, 14-22, 24, VANESSA - A deep red oval grape that is crisp and firm. Seedless fruits in medium sized clusters. Developed in Ontario. Hardy to -5 degrees F. NIAGRA - A concord grape that ripens to a honey-gold color. Slipskin berries are born in large clusters, excellent for fresh eating, juices and preserves. Fruit hangs well on the vine. SUFFOLK RED A premium table grape borne in long, loose clusters of firm, red seedless berries. Has a spicy-sweet flavor. Sunset zones 1-9, CABERNET - The legendary red grape used to make Bordeaux red wine. Small to medium, purplish to black berries. Vines vigorous and self-fruitful, requires a long growing season to ripen fully. CRIMSON SEEDLESS -A new grape that has made a big splash in the retail market medium size red berries are sweet and crunchy with a spicy flavor. They ripen late and provide fall fruit when most other table grapes are done CONCORD - This grape sets the standard of quality for bluish-black grapes. Medium sized, glossy, round, slipskin grapes with a green, pulpy, seeded flesh. Fruit formed in large, well filled clusters. The most popular variety for US commerical juicing. Vigorous vine that is strong and productive. Susceptible to black rot. Ripens in late September. Used as a table grape, juice, jelly and wine. Developed from wild grape seeds in Concord, MA. USDA zones Sunset zones 6-11, 13-22, 24, 32, chill hours. BLACK MANNUKA - Long clusters of reddish black medium to large oval grapes. Excellent fresh or used for raisins. Mostly seedless. 100 chill hours. Self-fruitful. USDA zones 6-9.

14 BOOK - THE GRAPE GROWER, A GUIDE TO ORGANIC VITICULTURE This is an excellent book on growing grapes. Grapes are different critters Not quite trees, not quite berry bushes, they have their own unique character. Grapes can be grown in virtually every climate zone, but the key to success is understanding their growth habits and cultural requirements, something this book explains extremely well. Author Lon Rombough has dedicated his life to fruit growing and has over four decades of experience growing grapes. From planting to harvest, this book will tell you all you need to know about growing grapes, from the cold north to the tropics. Price $35.00 FIGS Figs are vigorous, productive and long-lived trees, adapted to a wide range of soils. Their large leaves and luscious drooping fruit bring a subtropical flavor into temperate gardens. Figs bear two crops annually the early, light crop, known as breba, and the later fall crop, known as figs, which tends to be a heavier crop. If you are in a marginal fig area (climates lacking a long, hot summer season) you need to encourage the early crop to ensure a harvest. This is done by 1) Selecting varieties with a heavy, early crop and 2) Pruning lightly or not at all in winter, the first crop of figs is borne on the previous season s growth. Figs are conventionally grown. Climate Zones: Chilling Requirement: Pollination: Height: FIGS AT A GLANCE USDA zones 7-11, Sunset zones 4-9, ; can be grown in cold areas in container hours Self-fertile Can be kept to 10 feet by pruning or less by growing in a container, grows up to 30 feet if unpruned Up to 20 feet, less if pruned Width: Years to First Fruit: 1-3 Life Expectancy: Up to 100 years KING A large, yellow fig with pink flesh, very sweet, excellent quality. Bears a heavy early crop that will ripen in cool coastal climates as far north as British Columbia. BLACK MISSION The quintessential fig, Black Mission has set the standard for flavor and quality. Medium to large sized fruit has purplish black skin with strawberry-red flesh and a distinct rich flavor. Prolific and long-lived tree. CELESTIAL - Purplish-brown skin, pink flesh. Widely adapted. Prolific tree is a natural semi-dwarf growing to 10, great for small spaces or container growing. Two crops per year - early summer and late summer to early fall. Prune to any shape. 100 hours. Self-fruitful. MULBERRIES Mulberries are too fragile to find in your local produce section. The fruit doesn't travel well, which is a shame because too many people miss out on their unique flavor that combines sweet and tart in a perfumed and juicy berry. They have ornamental, heart-shaped foliage and mature into a gnarled shape that gives the landscape a sense of permanence. The berries ripen over several weeks, which spreads out the berry season nicely. Mulberries are organically grown. PAKISTAN MULBERRY - Extremely large fruit 2-3 inches long and 3/8 inches in diameter! Berries are dark purple when ripe, but are sweet even at the ruby-red stage. Juice does not stain. USDA zones 6-9 BOOKS References on gardening and farming vary from fat textbooks that tend to be informative but dry and tedious, to pamphlets and magazines that lean towards the chatty and anecdotal. It is rare to find a book on a topic as complex and varied as horticulture that is written to be practical and accessible yet avoids oversimplification. When we find such a book we take note and pass it on to others. We ve put together a short list of books that we highly recommend as concise, readable, reliable and extremely useful. We are confident that you ll find these books helpful. THE BACKYARD ORCHARDIST This is the owner s manual for fruit trees. A highly informative, extremely practical book packed with useful tips on successful fruit tree growing. Otto starts from the beginning how to plant and care for young fruit trees, and walks you through the season, from fertilizing to pruning to thinning fruit to managing pests, even proper harvest and storage techniques. We keep it handy on the shelf and refer to it often. Highly recommended. $14.95 THE BACKYARD BERRY BOOK The companion volume to Backyard Orchardist, this indispensable book has a similar format and is also packed with useful charts, tables and practical advice based on first hand experience. You would have to thumb through a lot of different references in order to find the information in this one book. $15.95 THE SOUL OF SOIL, A SOIL-BULDING GUIDE FOR MASTER GARDENERS AND FARMERS No matter what you re growing, it all begins and ends with soil. From gardening magazines to textbooks, more has probably been written about soil than any other single agricultural topic. The Soul of Soil manages to sift through this vast store of potentially intimidating information and distill it down to a concise, readable book that is practical for gardeners and farmers of any scale. The list of over twenty tables makes it easy to Order online at Page 14

15 quickly access information that you re bound to be looking up over and over again. $16.95 DESIGNING AND MAINTAINING YOUR EDIBLE LANDSCAPE NATURALLY - Hands down, this has been our favorite single book on gardening since it was published in Robert Kourick brings together an immense body of information gained from both extensive research and years of practical experience as a gardener, landscaper and designer. Kourick s clear and engaging writing combines with a wealth of charts, tables and diagrams to produce a book that s an enjoyable read and reliable reference that you will consult for many years. Shipping and Tax Books are shipped separately from nursery stock. Please allow 2 to 3 weeks for delivery. Shipping charges are as follows: 1 book - $2.50; 2 books - $3.50; 3to 4 books - $5.00. A 7.25% tax will be applied to books shipped within California Page 15 Prices and ordering information on Page 21

16 SCENES FROM THE NURSERY Sandy Bar Ranch and Nursery would not be possible without the hard work and dedication of interns and friends: Each year interns come to learn about and assist in running our ranch and nursery. Some interns stay on as residents; others move on, all of them leave their mark on our gardens and orchards. Many thanks go out to all who have tended our nursery, garden and orchards through the years. Much appreciation to our friend and co-worker Raff who has helped with every single tree harvest since we started! And a special thanks to Erin Cadwell, who came to us two years ago as a graduate of the UC Davis Sustainable Agriculture program and will be entering her third year as assistant nursery manager and computer wizard. Raff planting rootstock Erin inspecting apple trees in the nursery Ashley cuts back budded rootstock Budding Fruit Trees in the Nursery Harvesting Trees Ken, Our UPS Man Order online at Page 16

17 TIPS ON CHOOSING FRUIT TREES If you have some experience with fruit trees then choosing can be as simple as selecting favorite varieties that do well in your area. If you lack experience or just want to try some new and unfamiliar varieties, then read through this section for some tips. Start by doing your research locally have a look around and see what s already growing in your area. Talk to your neighbors and county agricultural extension to find out what does well in your area. Pay attention to your site, the patterns of sun, wind and frosts. Look for the microclimates, cold spots, hot spots and sheltered areas. What s Your Limiting Factor? - Find out what condition has the most limiting effect on fruit growing in your area, and keep this in mind when making your choices. In northern regions it may be extreme winter cold, while some southern areas do not get enough chill for certain fruits such as cherries and filberts. Once you ve determined your limiting factor(s) you can make choices accordingly. Choose hardy varieties for extreme cold, low chill varieties for southern climates, disease resistant varieties for cool, damp climates etc. Make the most of your site and climate. Extended rain and fog in coastal areas may contribute to disease problems in tree fruit, but is ideal for berries. If you re on the coast, consider Japanese plums, berries and early to mid-season disease resistant apples, avoid the late season fruit that requires a lot of heat to ripen. ROOTSTOCK SELECTION DETERMINES THE SIZE OF THE TREE AND SPACING The rootstock is the lower portion of the tree that you don t see. Rootstock selection and pruning determine the size of a tree. If you have limited space, choose a dwarf or semi-dwarf rootstock and keep it well pruned. If you want a tree to hang a hammock on, or to use as windbreak or shade, go for a semi-standard or standard. The diagram below shows the relative sizes of different rootstocks Bud 9 (apple) OHF333 (Pear) Citation (Prunus sp) MM111 (apple) Standard Seedling Pajam (apple) Pyrodwarf Pumiselect (Prunus sp) Marianna 2624 Mazzard (cherry) M7 (apple) Krymsk 5 CLIMATE MACRO AND MICRO There are two aspects to consider for climate what is the general climate of your area, and what are the specific characteristics of your piece of property. Climate zones describe the macroclimate or general characteristics of your area. By learning your climate zone you can gain a lot of useful information such as average minimum temperature, weather patterns and number of growing days. The specific characteristics of your property are your microclimates and these you learn by observing. Microclimates are determined by soil, slope, aspect, wind and water. If you have a small backyard plot you may not have many microclimates, but if you have a parcel with some slope and differing vegetation you re likely to have several. Once you identify your microclimates you can use them to your advantage when planting fruit trees. Page 17 Prices and ordering information on Page 21

18 MACROCLIMATE CLIMATE ZONES Wherever possible, we classify varieties using two climate zone systems the USDA climate zones and the Sunset Gardening climate zones. Most gardeners are familiar with the USDA zones, they account only for the minimum average annual temperature so they are used to rate a plant s cold-hardiness (see adjacent chart). However, there is more to growing conditions than minimum annual temperatures. Sunset Gardening has developed a different system of climate zones that is far more informative, taking into account factors such as frost-free days, humidity, prevailing winds, effects of ocean, elevation and regional weather patterns. Until relatively recently Sunset zones were available only for the western US. Now the entire country has been classified using this system, and we highly recommend utilizing it. You can learn more about your climate zone in the Sunset Gardening Book for your region or by visiting the Sunset website at You can find out your annual minimum average temperature by consulting a knowledgeable neighbor, your county agricultural extension, or the USDA climate zone map at USDA ZONE ZONE 1 ZONE 2 ZONE 3 ZONE 4 ZONE 5 ZONE 6 ZONE 7 ZONE 8 ZONE 9 ZONE 10 Average Annual Minimum Temperature Below 50 F -50 to -40 F -40 to -30 F -30 to 20 F -20 to -10 F -10 to 0 F 0 to 10 F 10 to 20 F 20 to 30 F 30 to 40 F Don t be afraid to experiment Keep in mind that a climate zone is the map, and your site the actual territory. Most written advice (this catalogue included) will be conservative by necessity. Climate zones do not account for your slope, aspect and local weather, warm spots and frost pockets. These all add up to your local microclimate, which may vary from what a climate zone tells you. Use the climate zone as a guideline, not an absolute. Use the information in this catalogue to make educated choices and avoid varieties that are obviously not suited to your climate. Don t be afraid to experiment and try something new. Ultimately the only way to know how a fruit will produce on a specific site is to plant it there. MICROCLIMATES, MAKING THE MOST OF YOUR LOCATION Microclimates are small pockets of climate variations that differ from the surrounding climate. By identifying and using microclimates you can grow fruit not normally recommended for your climate zone. Pay attention to the way the sun travels across your property throughout the season. Look for cold spots and hot spots. A maximum-minimum thermometer placed at different locations will tell you a lot about your microclimates. Here are a few other things to look for. Slope Bear in mind that cold air moves like water, so in spring and fall a valley floor will usually be significantly colder than a slope. In fact, some slopes are called banana belts, because they remain frost-free much longer than valley floors, which may be subjected to hard frosts. If you are in a warm climate and are concerned about not having enough chill, plant in low spots when possible. If you are in a cold climate and are concerned about frost damage, make the best use of slopes when available. Aspect - A south-facing slope is, of course, much warmer than a north-facing slope. Western slopes receive the hotter, more intense afternoon sunshine, while eastern slopes receive the less intense morning sun. A south facing wall is a good place to plant a tree that needs extra heat in order to ripen. If the wall has an overhang, it will also provide some frost protection. Thermal mass Water and stone will absorb heat during the day and re-radiate it at night. A stone or brick wall can be an ideal place for ripening a late fruit crop. Translucent jugs of water placed in a greenhouse or around fruit trees will re-radiate heat at night. A small pond will serve as a heat sink in the summer and fall, and a cold sink in spring and winter. Watering before an anticipated frost will increase re-radiated heat the wet soil will absorb more heat than dry soil during the day, and release more at night. Wind Strong wind can desiccate plants, damage fruit and decrease air temperatures. Wind protection can be especially important in coastal or desert regions. The best windbreak is one that slows wind down rather than stopping it. Hedges, vines, lattice fences and screens allow some wind to pass through without creating turbulence. PLANTING IN CONTAINERS Short on space? Want to grow plants that are not quite cold hardy enough for your region? Many of our fruit trees and berries can be grown in containers. Wooden wine or whiskey barrels make excellent containers, or you can buy large plant containers from your local gardening store. Be sure to use a light, well-drained potting mix that is high in organic matter and low in sand or soil that would add unwanted weight to your container. Water plants often, up to once a day, and be sure to fertilize twice a month during the growing season with a water-soluble fertilizer (there are many good organic seaweed and fish-based products available). Order online at Page 18

19 ABOUT POLLINATION Most fruit trees require pollination to produce fruit. Some trees are capable of pollinating themselves (selffertile), others require pollen from another tree (self-sterile). As a general rule, pollenizers should be no more than 50 feet apart from one another, though trees up to 200 feet apart may cross-pollinize. The adjacent chart outlines the general requirements for fruits in this catalogue. See the variety descriptions for more specific information. Apple Pears Peaches Japanese Plums European Plums Apricots Cherries Figs Grapes Persimmon Berries Nuts Pollination Requirements of Fruit & Nut Trees Require a pollenizer. Some varieties are pollen sterile and will not pollenize other apples. See descriptions and pollination chart Require a pollenizer. See pollination chart. Self-fertile, except for JH Hale & Indian Blood. Require a pollenizer. Some are self-fertile. See descriptions Self-fertile, but planting two or more varieties will increase production. Self fertile Require a pollenizer. Montmorency, Lapins & Stella are self-fertile. Self-fertile. Self fertile. Self-fertile. Most Berries are self-fertile. Plant two or more varieties of blueberries. Require a pollinator, except for All-In One almond. Plant two or more varieties (or two seedling trees) for pollination. CHILLING REQUIREMENTS Temperate fruit trees must pass through some cold in order to know that winter is over and it is time to bloom. Chill is measured by the amount of hours below 45 F from November to mid February. Temperate fruits require anywhere from 100 to 1400 chilling hours. Gauging cumulative chill and matching varieties for your area is more of an educated guess than an exact science, as low temperatures vary considerably within a climate zone and from year to year. Chilling requirement is a concern for USDA zones 9B and 10, predominantly southern and coastal regions where chilling hours average chilling hours per year. If you are within this area, take note of the chilling requirements listed for fruits and choose accordingly. Persimmons, almonds, olives, berries, pomegranates and chestnuts all have low chilling requirements. Low chill varieties are available for apples, pears, apricots, nectarines, peaches, and plums. We ve learned from fruit growers in Southern California that it s possible to grow just about any apple in warm winter areas as long as the leaves of the trees are completely stripped in December/ January, to induce dormancy (see our website articles for more information). Filberts need lots of chill ( hours) and should be avoided in low chill areas. Use the map to see if you are in a low chill area and estimate your amount of winter chill. The At a Glance tables will tell you the chilling requirements of each fruit. HOW MANY TREES SHOULD I PL ANT? The number of trees you plant will depend, of course, on how much fruit your family consumes. The At a Glance tables in the catalogue and on the website tell you how much fruit you can expect to harvest from each variety on different rootstocks. Don t be intimidated by the quantities. You can spread your harvest throughout the season so that your fruit does not ripen all at once (see below). Some of the fruit will be culls and a lot of weight is lost when processing fruits. If you intend to preserve your fruit by juicing, canning or drying then you will want to plan accordingly. Consider the following processing conversions: 20 LB of fresh fruit yields approximately: 1 ½ to 2 LB dried fruit 1 gallon of juice About 5 quarts of fruit preserves Page 19 Prices and ordering information on Page 21

20 RIPENING TIMES SPREAD YOUR HARVEST THROUGH THE YEAR By choosing varieties that ripen over a long period of time you can enjoy fresh fruit for most of the year. Most of the varieties in this catalogue are presented in order of ripening, from early to late. Use this order and the adjacent relative ripening chart to plan for fresh fruit throughout the year. Some varieties are good keepers and will provide you with fresh fruit well into the winter. Canning, drying and freezing are also great ways to extend your harvest and eat fruit all year. Cherry Apricot Peach Nectarine Apple Plum Pear Asian Pear Fig Grape Pomegranate Persimmon Berries Almond Filbert Walnut Chestnut Relative Ripening Times of Fruits and Nuts* May June July August Sept. October Nov. Dec. *Based on Northern California PLANTING YOUR TREES Each order comes with complete instructions on how to plant and care for your bare root fruit trees. Here are the most important points to remember: 1) When your trees arrive don t leave the box in the sun. Remove them from the box promptly. 2) Always keep the roots moist and protect them from freezing. The trunk and branches can withstand colder temperatures than the exposed roots. 3) Plants can be kept for up to several weeks before planting by heeling them in which means covering the roots with soil, potting mix, sand or sawdust to keep them moist. Choose a cool, shaded area for heeling in. Plant your trees before signs of bud break. 4) In hot climates it is very important to paint the bark of young trees to prevent sunburn. Follow the instructions that arrive with your tree. 5) Be sure to irrigate your tree, especially the first 1 to 2 years. The two most common causes of tree failure are sunburn and lack of water. If you are in an area with dry summers we highly recommend installing a drip irrigation system. They are simple, relatively cheap and labor saving. If you care for your tree, especially when it s young, it will reward you with abundant harvests for many years to come. From Designing & Maintaining Your Edible Landscape Naturally by R. Kourick Order online at Page 20