The damp climate of the Maritime, however, predisposes pears to leaf diseases unless they are in full sun. There are plum varieties suitable for almost every Northwest site. Some plums sucker readily and are thus useful in hedgerows. The trees are at their best in deep, sandy, well-drained soils. Peaches need plenty of warm weather and sunlight to ripen properly.
Nectarines are similar in requirements and habits.
A well drained soil is essential. Cherries need full sunlight and adequate moisture to ripen well. Mulberries are often planted adjacent to them to divert birds from devouring ripening cherries. They can withstand drought and cold. Sour cherries can be kept low by pruning and are therefore useful in mixed plantings or as middle story trees.