Growing fruit trees in Pennsylvania can be a rewarding experience for gardeners, but it requires some careful planning and consideration. The climate in Pennsylvania varies widely depending on the region, so it’s important to choose fruit tree varieties that are well-suited to the local conditions. In this article, I will introduce you to 10 varieties of fruit trees in Pennsylvania and provide some tips on how to care for them.
When selecting fruit trees for your Pennsylvania garden, it’s important to consider factors such as the amount of sunlight, soil type, and temperature range. Some fruit trees, such as apples, are well-suited to the cooler temperatures and frequent frosts that are common in many parts of the state. Other fruit trees, such as peaches and cherries, require a longer growing season and may not thrive in colder regions. By choosing the right fruit tree varieties for your area, you can ensure a bountiful harvest and healthy, productive trees.
In the following sections, I will provide an overview of 10 fruit tree varieties that are well-suited to Pennsylvania’s climate and growing conditions. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, this guide will help you choose the best fruit trees for your Pennsylvania orchard.
Climate Considerations for Fruit Trees in Pennsylvania
When considering what fruit trees to grow in Pennsylvania, it is essential to keep in mind the state’s climate. The state has a humid continental climate, which means it has four distinct seasons with cold winters and hot summers. This climate can be challenging for some fruit trees, but there are many varieties that can thrive in Pennsylvania.
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a fruit tree is its cold hardiness. Most fruit trees require a certain number of chilling hours, which are hours below a certain temperature, to break dormancy and produce fruit. Pennsylvania’s winters can be harsh, so it is crucial to select fruit trees that are cold-hardy and can withstand winter temperatures.
Another factor to consider is the length of the growing season. Pennsylvania has a relatively short growing season, so it is essential to choose fruit trees that can ripen their fruit before the first frost. Some fruit trees, such as peaches and apricots, require a long growing season, making them more challenging to grow in Pennsylvania.
Here is a table of fruit trees that can grow in Pennsylvania and their cold hardiness zones:
| Fruit Tree | Cold Hardiness Zone |
|---|---|
| Apple | Zones 3-9 |
| Cherry | Zones 4-9 |
| Plum | Zones 4-9 |
| Pear | Zones 4-9 |
| Peach | Zones 5-9 |
| Apricot | Zones 5-8 |
It is also essential to consider the soil type and sunlight requirements of the fruit trees. Most fruit trees prefer well-drained soil and full sun exposure. It is essential to choose a location that receives at least six hours of sunlight per day and has good soil drainage.
In conclusion, when selecting fruit trees to grow in Pennsylvania, it is crucial to consider the state’s climate, cold hardiness, growing season, soil type, and sunlight requirements. By selecting the right fruit trees, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of fresh fruit from your own backyard.
Apple Varieties Suited for Pennsylvania
As a Pennsylvania gardener, I know that apple trees are a popular choice for fruit growers in the region. Here are some apple varieties that are well-suited for growing in Pennsylvania:
- Honeycrisp: This apple variety is well-known for its crisp texture and sweet flavor. It is a popular choice for eating fresh and making cider.
- Cortland: Cortland apples are a good choice for baking or making applesauce. They have a sweet-tart flavor and hold their shape well when cooked.
- Empire: Empire apples have a sweet-tart flavor and are good for eating fresh or cooking. They are also resistant to many common apple diseases.
- Golden Delicious: Golden Delicious apples have a sweet flavor and are good for eating fresh or cooking. They are also a good choice for making apple juice or cider.
- Granny Smith: Granny Smith apples have a tart flavor and are a good choice for baking or making applesauce. They are also a good choice for salads.
- Red Delicious: Red Delicious apples have a sweet flavor and are a good choice for eating fresh. They are also a good choice for making apple juice or cider.
- Rome: Rome apples have a mild flavor and hold their shape well when cooked. They are a good choice for baking or making applesauce.
- Stayman: Stayman apples have a tart flavor and are a good choice for baking or making applesauce. They are also a good choice for eating fresh.
- Winesap: Winesap apples have a tart flavor and are a good choice for cooking. They are also a good choice for making apple juice or cider.
- York: York apples have a sweet-tart flavor and are a good choice for eating fresh or cooking. They are also a good choice for making apple juice or cider.
When choosing an apple variety to grow in Pennsylvania, it’s important to consider factors such as disease resistance, climate suitability, and intended use. With these apple varieties, Pennsylvania gardeners can enjoy a bountiful harvest of delicious and healthy fruit.
Also Read | 15 Fruit Trees That Grow In Shade
Stone Fruit Trees: Cherries and Peaches
When it comes to stone fruit trees, cherries and peaches are two popular options that can thrive in Pennsylvania’s climate. Both of these fruit trees require a lot of sunlight and well-drained soil to grow and produce quality fruit.
Cherries
Cherry trees are a great option for those who want to grow a fruit tree with a relatively short lifespan. They usually grow up to 20 feet tall and can produce fruit in just a few years. Some popular cherry varieties that can grow in Pennsylvania include:
- Bing: A sweet, dark red cherry that is great for eating fresh or canning.
- Black Tartarian: A large, juicy cherry with a sweet flavor that is great for eating fresh or making desserts.
- Rainier: A yellow and red cherry with a sweet, delicate flavor that is great for eating fresh.
Peaches
Peach trees are another popular option for those who want to grow a fruit tree in Pennsylvania. These trees can grow up to 20 feet tall and produce fruit in just a few years. Some popular peach varieties that can grow in Pennsylvania include:
- Redhaven: A medium-sized peach with a red blush and yellow flesh that is great for eating fresh or canning.
- Elberta: A large, juicy peach with a yellow flesh that is great for eating fresh or making desserts.
- Halehaven: A large, firm peach with a red blush and yellow flesh that is great for eating fresh or canning.
Overall, both cherries and peaches are great options for those who want to grow a fruit tree in Pennsylvania. With proper care and attention, these trees can produce delicious fruit for years to come.
Pear Trees for Pennsylvania Orchards
As a fruit tree enthusiast, I highly recommend pear trees for Pennsylvania orchards. Pears are a popular fruit in Pennsylvania, and they are known for their juicy, sweet flesh and delicate flavor. Here are some of the most popular pear varieties that you can grow in your Pennsylvania orchard:
Bartlett Pear
Bartlett pears are one of the most popular pear varieties in the world, and they are well-suited for Pennsylvania orchards. They are a large, yellow-green pear with a sweet, juicy flavor. Bartlett pears are great for eating fresh, canning, or making preserves.
Anjou Pear
Anjou pears are another popular variety that is well-suited for Pennsylvania orchards. They are a medium-sized, green pear with a sweet, juicy flavor. Anjou pears are great for eating fresh, baking, or poaching.
Bosc Pear
Bosc pears are a popular variety that is well-suited for Pennsylvania orchards. They are a large, brown pear with a sweet, juicy flavor. Bosc pears are great for eating fresh, baking, or poaching.
Seckel Pear
Seckel pears are a small, sweet pear that is well-suited for Pennsylvania orchards. They are a brownish-red pear with a sweet, juicy flavor. Seckel pears are great for eating fresh or making preserves.
Comice Pear
Comice pears are a popular variety that is well-suited for Pennsylvania orchards. They are a large, green pear with a sweet, juicy flavor. Comice pears are great for eating fresh or making preserves.
Conference Pear
Conference pears are a popular variety that is well-suited for Pennsylvania orchards. They are a medium-sized, green pear with a sweet, juicy flavor. Conference pears are great for eating fresh or making preserves.
Forelle Pear
Forelle pears are a small, sweet pear that is well-suited for Pennsylvania orchards. They are a green pear with red spots and a sweet, juicy flavor. Forelle pears are great for eating fresh or making preserves.
Magness Pear
Magness pears are a popular variety that is well-suited for Pennsylvania orchards. They are a large, green pear with a sweet, juicy flavor. Magness pears are great for eating fresh or making preserves.
Red Bartlett Pear
Red Bartlett pears are a popular variety that is well-suited for Pennsylvania orchards. They are a large, red pear with a sweet, juicy flavor. Red Bartlett pears are great for eating fresh or making preserves.
Starkrimson Pear
Starkrimson pears are a popular variety that is well-suited for Pennsylvania orchards. They are a large, red pear with a sweet, juicy flavor. Starkrimson pears are great for eating fresh or making preserves.
Pear trees are a great addition to any Pennsylvania orchard. They are easy to grow, and they produce delicious, juicy fruit that is perfect for eating fresh, baking, or making preserves. With so many different pear varieties to choose from, you are sure to find one that is perfect for your orchard.
Plum Varieties for the Pennsylvania Climate
As a fruit tree lover, I have found that plum trees are an excellent addition to any Pennsylvania garden. Plum trees are relatively easy to grow and maintain, and they produce an abundance of delicious fruits that are perfect for making jams, jellies, and desserts.
Here are some of the best plum varieties that thrive in the Pennsylvania climate:
Stanley Plum
The Stanley plum is a European variety that is well-suited to the Pennsylvania climate. It produces large, oval-shaped fruits with dark purple skin and yellow flesh. The Stanley plum is a self-fertile tree, which means it doesn’t require another plum tree for pollination. It is also resistant to many common plum diseases.
Shiro Plum
The Shiro plum is a Japanese variety that is well-suited to the Pennsylvania climate. It produces medium-sized, round fruits with yellow skin and flesh. The Shiro plum is a self-fertile tree that is known for its sweet and juicy fruits. It is also relatively disease-resistant.
Methley Plum
The Methley plum is another Japanese variety that is well-suited to the Pennsylvania climate. It produces medium-sized, round fruits with red skin and yellow flesh. The Methley plum is a self-fertile tree that is known for its sweet and juicy fruits. It is also relatively disease-resistant.
Redheart Plum
The Redheart plum is an American hybrid variety that is well-suited to the Pennsylvania climate. It produces large, heart-shaped fruits with dark red skin and yellow flesh. The Redheart plum is a self-fertile tree that is known for its sweet and juicy fruits. It is also relatively disease-resistant.
Plum trees are an excellent addition to any Pennsylvania garden. With the right care and maintenance, they can produce an abundance of delicious fruits year after year.
Nut Trees Commonly Grown in Pennsylvania
As a resident of Pennsylvania, I have come across a variety of nut trees that thrive in our state. Here are some of the most commonly grown nut trees in Pennsylvania.
Black Walnut
Black Walnut is a native tree to the Mid-West and is one of the most commonly found nut trees in Pennsylvania. It grows tall and produces green fruit larger than a golf ball but smaller than a baseball. The tree is known for its shade and fruit, but it requires ample space to grow. The mature size of a Black Walnut is 70 to 80 feet tall and 50 to 70 feet wide.
American Hazelnut
The American Hazelnut is a small tree that grows up to 20 feet tall and is native to Pennsylvania. It produces small, sweet nuts that are often used in baking. The tree is easy to grow and requires little maintenance, making it a popular choice for homeowners.
Chestnut
The Chestnut tree is a large, deciduous tree that can grow up to 100 feet tall. It produces large, sweet nuts that are often roasted and eaten as a snack. The Chestnut tree is known for its beauty and is a popular choice for landscaping.
Pecan
The Pecan tree is a large, deciduous tree that can grow up to 130 feet tall. It produces sweet, buttery nuts that are often used in baking. The Pecan tree is native to the southern United States but can grow well in Pennsylvania with proper care.
Butternut
The Butternut tree is a medium-sized tree that grows up to 60 feet tall. It produces sweet, oily nuts that are often used in baking. The Butternut tree is native to the eastern United States and is a popular choice for landscaping.
Nut trees are a great addition to any Pennsylvania landscape. They provide shade, beauty, and delicious nuts that can be enjoyed by all.
Small Fruit Trees: Figs and Persimmons
When it comes to small fruit trees, figs and persimmons are great options for gardeners in Pennsylvania. These trees are relatively easy to care for and can be grown in containers or in the ground.
Figs
Figs are a popular choice for those looking for a low-maintenance fruit tree. They are hardy and can tolerate a range of soil types, making them a great choice for Pennsylvania. The Brown Turkey fig tree is a popular variety that can grow up to 20 feet tall and wide. It produces medium-sized figs with brownish rusted purple skin and light pink-amber flesh inside.
If you’re looking for a smaller variety, the Celeste fig tree is a great option. It grows up to 10 feet tall and wide and produces small to medium-sized figs with a sweet, rich flavor. The tree is also self-pollinating, making it a great choice for those with limited space.
Persimmons
Persimmons are another great option for small fruit trees in Pennsylvania. The American persimmon tree is a popular variety that can grow up to 60 feet tall but can also be pruned to a smaller size. The fruit is often round and similar in shape to a tomato, with a thick outer skin. Some American varieties of persimmon can be eaten when they are still firm, while others need to be left to ripen until they are soft.
Another popular variety is the Fuyu persimmon tree. It grows up to 25 feet tall and wide and produces medium to large-sized fruit with a sweet, mild flavor. The fruit can be eaten when it is still firm and crisp or left to ripen until it is soft and juicy.
Figs and persimmons are great options for gardeners in Pennsylvania looking for small fruit trees. They are easy to care for and can produce delicious fruit with minimal effort.
Cold Hardy Citrus Options
As someone who loves growing fruit trees in Pennsylvania, I understand the challenges of finding cold-hardy citrus trees. Fortunately, there are a few options that can thrive in our climate.
One of the best options for cold-hardy citrus trees is the trifoliate orange. This tree is known for its hardiness, and it can survive temperatures as low as -20°F. The fruit of the trifoliate orange is not edible, but it is a great option for making marmalade.
Another citrus tree that can survive in Pennsylvania is the sour orange. This tree is a cross between a pomelo and a mandarin, and it is known for its sour fruit. The sour orange can survive temperatures as low as 20°F, making it a great option for those who live in colder regions of the state.
If you’re looking for a sweeter citrus option, the Cleopatra mandarin is a good choice. This tree is a cross between a mandarin and a sweet orange, and it can survive temperatures as low as 25°F. The fruit of the Cleopatra mandarin is sweet and juicy, making it a great option for eating fresh or juicing.
It’s important to note that while these citrus trees are hardy, they still require proper care and protection during the winter months. Be sure to cover your trees with frost blankets or burlap to protect them from harsh winds and freezing temperatures.
If you’re looking to add some citrus trees to your Pennsylvania orchard, these cold-hardy options are a great place to start. With proper care, these trees can thrive in our climate and provide you with delicious fruit for years to come.
Berry Bushes as Complementary Plantings
As a fruit tree grower in Pennsylvania, I know that planting complementary berry bushes can be a great way to increase the yield and variety of your harvest. Here are some of my favorite berry bushes to plant alongside fruit trees:
Blueberries
Blueberries are a great choice for planting alongside fruit trees because they prefer acidic soil, which is also ideal for many fruit trees. They are also relatively low maintenance and can be grown in containers or in the ground. Some popular varieties for Pennsylvania include Duke, Bluecrop, and Jersey.
Gooseberries
Gooseberries are another great option for complementary planting. They are hardy and can tolerate cold temperatures, making them a good choice for Pennsylvania’s climate. Some popular varieties include Hinnomaki Red and Invicta.
Currants
Currants are a close relative of gooseberries and are also a good choice for planting alongside fruit trees. They are easy to grow and produce abundant fruit. Some popular varieties for Pennsylvania include Red Lake and Consort.
Raspberries
Raspberries are a great option for adding some variety to your fruit tree garden. They are relatively easy to grow and can be trained to grow on trellises or against walls. Some popular varieties for Pennsylvania include Heritage and Caroline.
Blackberries
Blackberries are a hardy and productive berry bush that can be grown alongside fruit trees. They can be trained to grow on a trellis or allowed to grow naturally. Some popular varieties for Pennsylvania include Chester and Triple Crown.
By planting complementary berry bushes alongside your fruit trees, you can increase the diversity and yield of your harvest. Just be sure to choose varieties that are well-suited to Pennsylvania’s climate and soil conditions.
Care and Maintenance of Fruit Trees in Pennsylvania
As a fruit tree owner in Pennsylvania, it is important to properly care for and maintain your trees to ensure they produce healthy and abundant fruit. Here are some tips to help you keep your fruit trees in top condition:
Planting
When planting your fruit trees, make sure to choose a location that receives plenty of sunlight and has well-draining soil. It is also important to plant your trees at the correct depth and to properly space them apart. Refer to the planting instructions provided by the tree nursery for specific guidance.
Watering
Water your fruit trees regularly, especially during dry spells. However, be careful not to overwater them, as this can lead to root rot. A good rule of thumb is to water deeply once a week, rather than shallowly every day.
Fertilizing
Fruit trees in Pennsylvania benefit from regular fertilization. Use a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10, and apply it according to the instructions provided. Be careful not to over-fertilize, as this can damage the tree and lead to poor fruit production.
Pruning
Prune your fruit trees regularly to remove dead or diseased branches and to promote healthy growth. Pruning also helps to shape the tree and improve fruit production. Refer to pruning guides specific to your type of fruit tree for guidance.
Pest and Disease Control
Fruit trees in Pennsylvania are susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases. To prevent and control these issues, use organic pest and disease control methods, such as neem oil and copper fungicide, and regularly inspect your trees for signs of infestation.
By following these tips for care and maintenance, you can ensure that your fruit trees in Pennsylvania remain healthy and productive for years to come.
Harvesting and Storage of Homegrown Fruit
Harvesting and storing homegrown fruit is a crucial part of the process. Here are some tips to ensure that your fruit is harvested at the right time and stored correctly:
- Harvesting: Different fruit trees have different ripening times, so it’s important to know when to harvest your fruit. For example, apples are typically ready to be picked in late summer or early fall, while peaches are ready in mid to late summer. When harvesting fruit, make sure to handle it gently to avoid bruising or damaging it.
- Storing: Once you’ve harvested your fruit, it’s important to store it correctly to ensure that it stays fresh for as long as possible. Many fruits can be stored in a cool, dry place for several weeks, while others need to be refrigerated or frozen. Here are some general guidelines for storing common types of fruit:
- Apples: Store in a cool, dry place for up to several weeks.
- Peaches: Store in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Cherries: Store in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Pears: Store in a cool, dry place for up to several weeks.
- Preserving: If you have an abundance of fruit, preserving it can be a great way to enjoy it throughout the year. There are many ways to preserve fruit, including canning, freezing, and drying. Each method has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to choose the method that works best for you and your fruit.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your homegrown fruit is harvested at the right time, stored correctly, and preserved for future enjoyment.
FAQs – Varieties of Fruit Trees in Pennsylvania
What types of apple trees thrive in Pennsylvania’s climate?
Pennsylvania’s climate is ideal for growing apple trees. Some of the most popular apple tree varieties that thrive in Pennsylvania’s climate include Honeycrisp, Red Delicious, and Granny Smith. These varieties are known for their hardiness and ability to withstand cold temperatures.
Which peach tree varieties are best suited for planting in Pennsylvania?
Peaches are widely grown in Pennsylvania, although production currently remains quite limited due to a pest problem. Some of the best peach tree varieties suited for planting in Pennsylvania include Red Haven, Cresthaven, and Contender. These varieties are known for their resistance to pests and diseases.
Can you recommend any dwarf fruit tree varieties for small gardens in Pennsylvania?
Yes, there are several dwarf fruit tree varieties that are ideal for small gardens in Pennsylvania. Some of the best dwarf fruit tree varieties include the Dwarf Meyer Lemon Tree, Dwarf Stella Cherry Tree, and Dwarf Gala Apple Tree. These varieties are known for their compact size and ability to produce fruit in small spaces.
What are some native fruit trees found in Pennsylvania?
There are several native fruit trees found in Pennsylvania, including the Pawpaw, American Persimmon, and Wild Plum. These trees are well-suited to Pennsylvania’s climate and soil conditions and are known for their unique flavors and nutritional benefits.
Are there heirloom fruit tree varieties that do well in Pennsylvania’s growing conditions?
Yes, there are several heirloom fruit tree varieties that do well in Pennsylvania’s growing conditions. These include the Grimes Golden Apple, the Black Oxford Apple, and the York Imperial Apple. These varieties are known for their unique flavors and are often used in cider and baking.
What are the ideal fruit trees to plant for attracting deer in Pennsylvania?
If you’re looking to attract deer to your garden, some of the best fruit trees to plant in Pennsylvania include the Crabapple, the Persimmon, and the Wild Cherry. These trees are known for their sweet fruit and are often a favorite of deer. However, it’s important to note that planting fruit trees for the sole purpose of attracting deer can also attract other wildlife, such as bears.