Fruit identification

The RHS hosts special sessions throughout the year where an expert will be on hand to identify a range of fruit cultivars of apples, pears, plums and many others. This carried out by RHS Horticultural specialist Jim Arbury and at the larger events with assistance from other specialists.

Please bring along three or more fruits of each cultivar. These should be mature typical specimens complete with stalks.

Please note: we are not able to identify fruit samples at our face-to-face Gardening Advice Service or by post.

Dates and venues for 2020 will be available later in the year.

Keen individuals, orchards and nurseries may consider using DNA identification. This is offered by NIAB EMR research institute for apples, pears, strawberries and raspberries from samples of new growth in early summer. Please note: this service can be expensive and would advise discussing the cost first.