Did Whitman ever get his trees to fruit?
no.
Well Adam, you are a year ahead of me, but Im further south. So you want to make a long term wager to see who gets there first?
I won't bet...but I'll still try to fruit mine faster than you! and I will be happy to post regular updates.
in order to fruit them quickly I will be doing the following:
1) keep in a container, stepping them up gradually, but consistently.
2) regular feedings during times of active growth, using mostly organic fertilizers and micro nutritional sprays (secret weapon, Agripro/Turfpro...which has micronutrients, beneficial organisms and mycorrhizae)
3) keep in filtered light for the first few years, but increase sunlight ASAP.
4) keep pruning them
5) keep them warm
6) use an acid soil mix, with good drainage, yet ample water retention. (pine bark, peat, sand)
and there is a few more things I can do to win the race...but I can't give away all the tricks...you might beat me!