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Sorbus domestica

Speierling

Common names: Sperberbaum, Spierling

Speierling

This description was machine-translated.

Description

The Speierling (Sorbus domestica) is a rare, long‑lived native tree whose small apple‑ or pear‑shaped fruits become edible only when they are overripe and doughy. Traditionally it is added to apple wine to make it more durable and tannin‑rich. It was named Tree of the Year in 1993 and is considered a valuable part of the cultural landscape.

Care instructions

Plant the Speierling in full sun in a warm location with deep, calcareous soil, it loves heat and tolerates drought well. Water only young trees during the first few years. Prune sparingly, only for crown shaping in late winter. Harvest the fruits in September and October and allow them to ripen doughily before processing. Patience is rewarded, the tree bears fruit only after many years.

Soil & site

Soil pH

4.0pH 6.5–88.0

Soil type

loamy, clayey, well-drained, lime-loving, nutrient-rich

LightFull sun
HardinessHardy
Water needLow

Feeding

Medium feeder

Pruning

MonthsFeb–Mar
SeasonLate winter
Pruning typeThinning cut

Companion planting

Good neighbors

amaryllis family (Amaryllidaceae)

You can plant garlic and chives under strawberries and roses; their scent repels aphids and other pests.

For example GarlicOnionLeekChivesDaffodilRocambole and 12 more species in the catalogue

Source: Bio-Gärtnerei Mixed Culture Practice

Companion planting is partly traditional gardening lore. Where the reason is known, it is given.

Some of these explanations were machine-translated.

Diseases & pests

1 relevant

From the knowledge base, automatically linked by affected species. How to spot and prevent them is covered in full in the lexicon.

DiseasehighApr–Aug
Fireblight

Erwinia amylovora

Fireblight is a highly contagious bacterial disease of stone fruit and related rose plants, and in many states it is reportable.

More on Fireblight

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