Damson Tree: Prunus Insititia: Merryweather

Merryweather Damson Tree - Prunus Insititia

Grow delicious damsons with the reliable Merryweather variety. This large, vigorous spreading damson tree is one of the most popular and dependable varieties for UK gardens. Producing abundant crops of bluey-black fruits in late summer, Merryweather damsons are perfect for cooking, preserves, and traditional damson gin. As a self-fertile variety, it doesn't require another tree for pollination, making it an easy, low-maintenance choice for home fruit growing.

Key Features

• Self-Fertile: No pollinator required - one tree will produce fruit on its own
• Reliable Cropping: Produces heavy, consistent crops of delicious damsons
• Large Fruit: Bigger damsons than many other varieties
• Perfect for Cooking: Ideal for jams, preserves, pies, and damson gin
• Beautiful Blossom: White flowers in spring create a stunning display
• Hardy: Vigorous and reliable in UK conditions
• Compact Size: Suitable for smaller gardens

Growing Information

Ultimate Height: 2-4m
Ultimate Spread: 2-4m
Pollinator Group: Self-fertile (no pollinator needed)
Harvest Time: Late August to September
Growth Rate: Moderate
Position: Full sun, sheltered from cold winds
Soil: Moist, well-drained, fertile soil
Hardiness: Fully hardy (H5)

Planting & Care

Plant in autumn or early spring in moist, well-drained, fertile soil enriched with organic matter. Position in full sun in a sheltered spot protected from cold winds and late frosts. Water regularly during the first two growing seasons and during dry spells in summer. Feed with a balanced fertiliser in early spring. Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Prune in summer after fruiting to maintain shape and remove any dead or damaged wood. Thin fruit in June if crops are very heavy to ensure good-sized damsons.

Perfect For

• Home fruit growing and kitchen gardens
• Making jams, preserves, and chutneys
• Traditional damson gin and liqueurs
• Cooking and baking
• Small gardens and urban spaces
• Adding spring blossom to gardens
• Low-maintenance fruit production

Why Choose Merryweather Damson?

Merryweather is the most popular damson variety for good reason. It's reliable, heavy-cropping, and self-fertile, making it perfect for gardeners who want delicious fruit without the complexity of cross-pollination. The large, flavourful damsons are perfect for traditional preserves and damson gin. This is a low-maintenance fruit tree that rewards you with abundant crops year after year.

Available at Stoneybrook Nursery, Lancashire - Quality fruit trees for UK gardens.