The Shropshire Prune (Damson) tree, unpacked and waiting to be planted.

The tree was supplied by Buckingham Nurseries Ltd whose catalogue gives the following information: Prolific small oval blue-black fruit, excellent flavoured green-yellow flesh. Compact and reliable. Known as the 'greengage of damsons'. Native of the West Midlands. 17th century from Shropshire. Mid-late Sept. Cooker. The rootstock is St Julien A
The web site http://www.pots2plots.com accessed 23 February 2011 describes the Damson rootstock St Julien A as semi-vigorous and gives advice on pruning

Being brought to its planting hole.

Placed in position.

Staked and tied.

The Friends taking a break