Fruiting Plants and Trees
Whether you have a large garden or just a small patio, there are fruit trees and plants suitable for every space. Fruiting plants and trees offer beautiful blossoms in the Spring which attract pollinators.
Above: A peach tree displaying lovely pink blossoms.
Choosing the Right Plant:
Before planting, it's important to choose the right fruit plant or tree for your space and climate. Some fruit trees, such as apples and pears, require a cold winter period to produce fruit, while others, such as citrus trees, need warm weather to thrive. Some fruit plants, such as blueberries, require acidic soil, while others, like strawberries, prefer slightly acidic soil. Most of New Jersey is in the Hardiness Zone 6, so certain fruiting trees are preferable.
The top pear varieties for New Jersey are: Anjou, Bartlett and Bosc. Pear trees should be planted 20-30 feet apart in an area with good drainage (think top of a hill). Pear trees are susceptible to root rot. Watch out for blight, as pear trees are susceptible. Pear trees need two trees for cross pollination. The pear tree can also be grown in a pot!
The top apple varieties for New Jersey are: Golden Delicious, Honeycrisp, Red McIntosh and Gala. Similar to pear trees, two trees are needed for pollination. Check leaves frequently for fungus or apple blight. Common pests are the Japanese Beetles or Aphids. Check frequently to keep them under control.
The top cherry trees for New Jersey are: Montmorency, the English Morello and the Early Richmond. Cherry trees are smaller than apple or pear varieties and only need one tree for pollination.
In New Jersey, Peach and Nectarine trees grow very well. Peach trees frequently produce a harvest in only two years! Peach trees are highly susceptible to mold and blight, especially in wet weather.
Fig trees are the most forgotten but most successfully grown fruit tree in New Jersey climate. The top varieties are: Brown, Chicago and Turkey. They are pest resistant and deer resistant.
Some citrus plants such as dwarf lemon or clementine can be grown in colder climates if they are brought indoors during the winter.
When selecting a fruit plant or tree, consider the space available for planting, the amount of sunlight the plant will receive, the type of soil in your garden, and your local climate.
Planting the Fruit Tree or Plant:
When planting a fruit tree or plant, choose a location that receives adequate sunlight and has well-draining soil. Learn the size of the tree at full maturity to ensure there is plenty of space for it to grow to full size. The planting hole should be deep enough to accommodate the plant's root system, and wide enough to allow for proper root growth.
To encourage healthy growth, add organic matter such as compost or aged manure to the planting hole. Once the plant is in the ground, water it thoroughly and add a layer of mulch to help retain moisture.
Keep in mind that raspberries grow like a weed so plant them in containers if you are concerned.
Caring for the Fruit Tree or Plant:
Watering: Fruit trees and plants require regular watering, especially during dry periods. Be careful not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilization: Fruit trees and plants benefit from regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer. The timing and frequency of fertilization will depend on the type of plant and your local climate.
Pruning: Regular pruning can help maintain the shape and size of fruit trees and plants, as well as encourage healthy growth and fruit production. Prune during the dormant season to avoid damaging new growth.
Pest control: Fruit trees and plants are vulnerable to pests such as insects and diseases. Try Integrated Pest Management (IPM) methods to avoid harmful chemicals.
Harvesting: Harvest fruit when it is ripe to ensure the best flavor and quality. Use sharp, clean tools to avoid damaging the fruit or plant.
Above: An apple tree providing flowers in the Spring.
For a fun experiment, try training your fruit trees. Training is a process of pruning and tethering to stakes to have them grown in a certain shape or direction. There’s a good explanation here.
