Barbara Rich / Getty Images
Cultivating your own fruits and vegetables comes with numerous advantages, especially the joy of savoring homegrown meals with loved ones. However, not all edible plants are beginner-friendly. Fruit trees, in particular, can be challenging to care for. To assist you in getting started, we consulted with experts to identify the easiest fruits to grow for both novice and experienced gardeners, along with all the necessary information for a successful harvest.
Meet Our Experts:
– Kevin Lenhart, design director and landscape architect at Yardzen
– Anna Ohler, owner of Bright Lane Gardens, a boutique plant nursery
– Christopher Macy, founder of the Phoenix Food Forest Initiative
Related: Top 10 Fruit Trees That Flourish in Containers
Kieffer Pear Tree
Tara Moore / Getty Images
Pear trees thrive in various climates and are more tolerant of colder weather compared to many other fruit trees. “They are also highly productive,” notes Kevin Lenhart from Yardzen. “For beginners seeking a confidence boost, a pear tree is a great choice.”
Depending on the type and size of the pear tree, expect fruits to appear between three to seven years. “You can expedite the process by purchasing a more mature tree,” Lenhart suggests. “Nursery trees are usually one to two years old.”
The Kieffer pear tree is self-pollinating, making it ideal for newcomers. However, planting another variety nearby can enhance the yield.
Growing Zones: 4 to 9
Size: 12 to 20 feet tall
Growing conditions: Full sun; moist, acidic, well-drained soil; water at least thrice weekly until established.
Columnar Apple Tree
Cristian Bortes / EyeEm / Getty Images
Columnar apple trees are designed to occupy minimal space, making them a simple choice for beginners with limited gardens. Their compact size also facilitates pruning and pest management.
These trees typically start bearing fruit within two to four years. While some are self-fertilizing, varieties like Golden Sentinel require nearby pollinators.
“Columnar apple trees can thrive in outdoor containers but require a specific number of ‘chill hours’ during winter, so avoid growing them indoors,” advises Anna Ohler from Bright Lane Gardens.
“These homegrown apples will provide a consistent yield year after year once established,” she adds. “They are delicious and can be harvested over several weeks.”
Growing Zones: 4 to 8
Size: 8 to 12 feet tall
Growing conditions: Full to partial sun; rich, well-draining soil; regular watering until roots establish.
Chicago Hardy Fig Tree
Jasenka Arbanas / GETTY IMAGES
Fig trees exhibit strong disease resistance, self-pollination, and adaptability to various climates, especially warmer regions. Once mature, they are highly drought-resistant, making them suitable for arid environments.
Compared to other fruit trees, fig trees require minimal pruning and
Lenhart Fig Tree
Growing Zones: 5 through 10
Size: 10 to 15 feet tall
Growing conditions: Requires full sun; well-drained, acidic soil; regular watering until established
Additional: Learn How to Properly Prune a Fig Tree for a Bountiful Harvest, as Advised by Horticulturists
Stanley Prune Plum Tree
Photo by Orest Lyzhechka / Getty Images
Most varieties of plum trees are sturdy and versatile, suitable for various regions. They are generally low maintenance, needing minimal pruning and shaping in comparison to other fruit trees. With consistent growth, plum trees typically start bearing fruit within three years, though some may take up to five years. Certain varieties, such as the Stanley plum tree, are self-pollinating, making them ideal for beginners. However, having multiple trees of any variety can significantly increase the overall fruit yield. These trees are also beneficial for pollinators, attracting butterflies and bees with their early blooms before fruit production begins. Aesthetically pleasing and functional, they are a great addition to any garden.
Growing Zones: 5 through 7
Size: 18 to 20 feet tall
Growing conditions: Requires full sun; well-drained, sandy or loamy soil; regular watering until established
Meyer Lemon Tree
Photo by Barbara Rich / Getty Images
Meyer Lemon trees are highly recommended for indoor fruit cultivation. These compact and adaptable plants can be easily accommodated in large containers and grown indoors throughout the year, or they can be outdoors and brought inside during colder seasons. With proper care, most Meyer lemon trees begin fruiting within two years, possibly sooner if grafted from a mature mother plant, a common practice in nurseries. They are self-pollinating, requiring only one tree for fruit production. When grown indoors, position the tree in front of a south-facing window. During gloomy winter months with short days, supplementing with a grow light can greatly aid growth. Known for their slightly sweet flavor, Meyer lemons are versatile for various culinary uses and drink recipes, while the ornamental nature of indoor trees can enhance the aesthetic appeal of any room.
Growing Zones: 8 through 11
Size: 8 to 10 feet tall
Growing conditions: Requires full, direct sunlight; well-drained, loamy soil; deep but infrequent watering
Pakistan Mulberry Tree
Photo by Ammad Ali Zahid / Getty Images
The Pakistan mulberry is an excellent choice for novice growers due to its resilience to extreme temperatures, drought, and pests. Self-pollinating and fast-growing, this tree produces abundant fruit within two to three years. Referred to as the king of mulberries, it yields large fruits, reaching up to 4 inches in length. Additionally, the Pakistan mulberry provides ample shade for companion plants, making it a versatile addition to any garden. Renowned for its productivity, this tree can reach
Elderberries are well-known for their disease resistance, which makes them an excellent choice for beginners due to their ability to thrive in various climates and environments. They thrive in moist soil and are especially successful in low-lying areas that retain water, such as creeks, ditches, ponds, or rain gardens. While some elderberry varieties are self-pollinating, it is advisable to plant two or more to ensure a bountiful fruit harvest each year.
According to Ohler, an added bonus of growing elderberries is the stunning display of white flowers they produce each spring, creating a beautiful sight in the garden. These plants are best suited for growing zones 4 through 9, reaching heights of 5 to 12 feet. They require full sun to partial shade, loamy, acidic, well-drained soil, and consistent watering during the initial growing season. For more information, refer to the original article on Martha Stewart.
