Fruits of Our Labor

There are many fruits that can be grown successfully in the Colorado Springs area.  List here are some of the plants, vines and shrubs you might wish to consider when planning your garden.  ( * indicates xeriscape potential) 

Blueberry—bears mid-July to August; requires acidic soil achieved by amending with Canadian sphagnum peat moss and soil sulfur to a soil pH of 5.0 – 6.0.  Blueberries can be grown in both well-draining and consistently wet soil. 

*Currant—5–6’ vigorous shrub bears large quantity of bright red berries near the beginning of August; tolerates a variety of soils; makes great jams and jellies. 

*Gooseberry—3-4’ shrub that tolerates a variety of soils and moisture levels; ripens in August; great for pies, jams and jellies. 

*Serviceberry—6-8’ shrub, prefers well-draining soil; fruit produced in mid-July is similar to blueberries; left unpicked, birds will clean shrub. 

Grapes—a large vine that can tolerate heavier soils; fruit ripens in September; depending on variety can be used in jams, jellies, wines or fresh eating. 

*Raspberry—depending on variety, may bear twice or in late summer; considered semi-drought tolerant when not bearing fruit, but will tolerate loamy soils well. 

Nanking Cherry—produces an abundance of white flowers in late April, followed by small scarlet fruit in June; used in jellies. 

Strawberry—often found as an everbearing fruit; produce two significant crops during the growing season; need soils moderately rich in organic matter that drains well; benefit greatly from winter mulching and moderate moisture. 

*Western Sandcherry—4’ shrub that blooms profusely in May; produces a seeded fruit the size of a grape; fruit ripens in mid-August; eaten fresh or used in jams. 

*Chokecherry—15’ shrub that bears small pea-size fruit; ripens in August, good for jellies. 

For any questions you have on this article, or any topic of concern, email us—or better yet, come by and talk to one of our professional staff members.  Remember, Phelan Gardens is open year-round!  

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