The Wild Service Tree (Sorbus Torminalis) is a unique and historically valued tree, known for its delicious berries that were once a sweet treat for country folk. The berries, rich in sugar and with exotic hints of dried apricot and sultana, were traditionally ripened by hanging them on strings in kitchens. The Wild Service Tree is not so common as it used to be and is becoming a rare sight usually found in woods.

This tree features an attractive bark with dark brown and pale grey tones, while young trees have a conical shape, evolving into tall, dome-shaped canopies as they mature. In late spring, the Wild Service Tree produces clusters of small, white flowers, followed by leathery, brown fruits that ripen in September. In the fall, its leaves turn a striking crimson red, creating a stunning visual display.

Ideal for a variety of landscapes, the Wild Service Tree thrives in well-drained soil and offers seasonal interest year-round. Whether you’re looking for a tree with historical significance or a visually appealing addition to your garden, the Wild Service Tree is a perfect choice for adding both beauty and character to your outdoor space.

Watering

• First Summer: Water regularly during the first summer to prevent the soil from drying out.
• Initial Weeks: Water weekly for the first few weeks after planting.
• Dry Periods: During hot, dry weather, water every week.
• Established Trees: Once established, they are drought-tolerant but benefit from deep watering every 3–4 weeks during prolonged dry spells.

Staking and Protection

• Staking: Securely stake young trees to prevent them from rocking and breaking new root growth.
• Protection: Use tree guards or shelters to protect young trees from grazing animals like deer.

Pruning

• Minimal Need: The Wild Service Tree rarely needs pruning and naturally develops a good shape.
• When to Prune: If required, light pruning should be done in late winter or early spring, outside the growing season.
• What to Remove: Focus on removing dead, damaged, diseased, or crossing branches.
• Hard Pruning: Hard pruning is not recommended.

Mulching and Feeding

• Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the tree to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
• Fertiliser: Use professional slow-release fertiliser granules at planting to give the tree the best start.

Fruit Harvesting

• The small brown fruits are edible, but best picked after they have been “bletted” (softened by frost) in late autumn. If there is no early frost, placing them in a freezer achieves the same effect.

Within 24 hours of placing your order, we will contact you to confirm an exact delivery date. Most orders are delivered within 5 working days. Your plants will be freshly lifted and packaged the day before dispatch to ensure they arrive in the best possible condition.

If you have a preferred delivery date please use the comments box and we will try our best to accommodate this (not available at weekends).

Although items can remain in their packaging for 7–10 days if kept frost-free, we recommend planting bareroot trees as soon as possible after delivery.

We use a courier service, and a signature is required on delivery unless you specify a safe place in the comments box when placing your order.

Small Orders (UK Mainland Only)

Orders of 1–15 plants in size 40/60cm can often be sent via Royal Mail for £8.90.

Please note: Your basket will initially show a delivery charge of £15.75 + VAT, but if you request Royal Mail delivery in the comments box, we will adjust the payment for you once we receive the order.

England and Wales Standard Delivery Charges

Mainland Scotland Standard Delivery Charges

Click and Collect

Click and collect available free of charge from: Tree Shop Ltd., Harts Barn, Monmouth Road, Longhope, GL17 0QD, UK