Fruit Identification

In order to identify an unknown cultivar we require three typical fruit specimens and a shoot with representative foliage. The fruit should be in good condition, as damaged, misshapen or poor specimens are very difficult to name. If possible the fruit should be mature and show the characteristic size shape and colour.

Please also include as much detail as possible about the fruit and tree i.e. its age, habitat, the soil type, season of use and the location if different from your address.

Fees

£10.00 per sample

Cheques for the appropriate fee should be made payable to Brogdale Collections. Please do not send cash.

Please allow 28 days for reply, although during peak months of October, November and December this period may be longer.

To sent a sample for identification please follow the below instructions.

1. Choose three fruit specimens and shoot, which are strong and healthy.
2. Number each sample and keep a personal record from which plant it was taken, as fruits cannot be returned. Apples and Pears are best numbered on the skin with a ballpoint or permanent marker pen. DO NOT use sticky labels as these can become loose in the post. Plums and soft fruit should be individually packed in clearly numbered bags.
3. Include as much history as possible about the fruit and tree and clearly mark your name, address, postcode and phone number and quote your membership number if applicable.
4. To avoid damage to fruit in transit please pack fruit in a strong box with loose newspaper, bubble wrap etc. DO NOT use boxes that have previously held strong odour or pungent products such as soap, as these can mask characteristic aromas and scents held by the fruit.
5. Parcels should be addressed to Fruit Identification, Brogdale Collections, Brogdale Farm, Brogdale Road, Faversham, Kent, ME13 8XZ complete with payment.

Whilst every attempt is made to identify samples correctly, no guarantee or accuracy can be given. Where identification is not possible a 50%reembursement will be made.

Fruit Advice Line

Need advice on why your fruit tree stopped growing, how to prune a fruit tree or ways of preventing pests from eating your fruit crop?  Now’s your chance to consult an expert from The National Fruit Collection for free. You can call on 01795 536250 (normal call rates) any Friday afternoon between 2-4.30pm.  The line will be manned by fruit enthusiasts who will give free advice on growing, planting and pests.  When calling you also get the chance to free membership of the Friends of the National Fruit Collection at Brogdale!  

For any queries please contact 01795 536250 or email: enquiries@brogdalecollections.co.uk.