How to grow a family tree

1 Select three to five varieties of the same fruit type. 2 Prune each tree so that it only has branches on one side of the tree, with the branches starting at around the same height on each tree. It might seem that this would create an unbalanced, weak tree with the weight all on one side, but these will be counterbalanced by the roots from each tree growing together and forming a very strong anchor. 3 Dig a large hole, about 1m wide by 40-50cm deep. 4 Arrange the trees in a circle in the hole, leaving a gap around 30-50cm between the trunks of each tree, with all branches facing outwards. 5 Mix in some compost to enrich the soil before returning it to the planting hole. The soil should be firm around the roots but not heavily compacted. Water to help settle the soil around the roots. 6 Tidy up any pruning, making sure no branches are crossing or growing into each other. 7 If the site is exposed to wind, support the trees with a strong stake in the centre gap between the trees, using soft fabric ties to connect the trees to the stake.