The RHS Fruit Group was formed in 1945 for members who enjoy growing tree fruit (apples, pears, plums and cherries) and soft fruit (strawberries, raspberries, gooseberries and other berries).
It is run by RHS members, for RHS members, and provides a place for discussion of fruit with other enthusiasts, as well as opportunities to attend a wide range of events around the UK including lectures, guided visits and workshops.
The group has close links with RHS staff, especially at Wisley and Rosemoor.
This group is for anyone with an interest in growing fruit, whether a in a large garden, or a window box.
Membership
The Fruit Group operates from Wisley. There are two subsidiary branches, one in the South West based at Rosemoor, and the other in the Midlands based on Pershore College, Worcestershire. Everyone joining becomes a member of the parent Group. If you live in either the South West of England or the Midlands you will also be enrolled in the appropriate Branch, for which there is no extra subscription.
Membership of the Fruit Group is open to all RHS members on payment of the annual subscription of £7. The subscription year is from January to December.
Benefits of joining the RHS Fruit Group
- The Fruit Group Newsletter, published three times a year, containing details of events, advice, news and growing experiences
- Opportunity to attend guided visits, seminars and workshops on all aspects of fruit growing
- Share your experiences with other enthusiastic fruit-growers
- Advice on all aspects of growing fruit from other Fruit Group members, and experts from the RHS
- Active email discussion group
All Fruit Group events, whether organised centrally or locally, are open to all members subject only to limits on numbers which may have to be applied in specific circumstances.
Download a membership form here
Activities and events
The Fruit Group runs a wide range of activities and events, all of which are published in the Fruit Group Newsletter.
Recent events have included visits to vineyards, research stations, heritage collections, private gardens and commercial orchards.
The Fruit Group also organises fruit tastings and practical seminars on pruning and grafting.