The Book of Pears and Plums; With Chapters on Cherries and Mulberries

An enthusiastic gardener’s companion, this manual blends centuries of lore with step‑by‑step advice for growing pears, plums, cherries and mulberries. Drawing on the author’s own orchards and the latest Royal Horticultural Society findings, it walks readers through site selection, soil preparation and the art of training trees—from simple stakes to elegant espaliers. Historical anecdotes about Roman orchards and old‑world varieties add a pleasant backdrop to the practical instruction.

The book is organized into clearly titled chapters that cover everything from propagation and pruning to pest management, harvesting and even kitchen recipes for jams and jellies. Full‑color illustrations show grafting cuts, canopy shapes and the delicate blossom that signals a good crop, making the guidance easy to follow in the field. Whether you tend a modest backyard plot or manage a small commercial orchard, the advice is grounded in realistic expectations and a gentle respect for the fruit’s character.