Discover Hardy Fruit Trees That Flourish in Cooler Temperatures
Fruit trees are among the most fulfilling plants to grow. Not only do they beautify your landscape, but they also provide delicious fruit to enjoy fresh or use in homemade jams and pies. The challenge? Many fruit varieties require warmer climates to flourish.
Thankfully, some fruit trees are built to endure colder environments and thrive in brisk weather. In this guide, fruit-growing experts share their top picks for cold-hardy fruit trees that you can successfully cultivate in chilly climates. Before planting, make sure to check your USDA hardiness zone to select the best trees for your area.
Expert Contributors:
- David Fried: Grower and owner of Elmore Roots, a fruit tree nursery in Vermont.
- Garrett Sorber: Co-owner of Radical Roots Nursery, a fruit and flower nursery in Maine.
1. Hazen Apple Tree
This cold-climate apple tree was developed in North Dakota and is a reliable annual producer. The Hazen apple tree bears fruit early in life, showcasing forest green leaves that turn golden in autumn. Spring brings clusters of white blossoms with a hint of pink.
Expert Insight: David Fried recommends planting Hazen apple trees in full sun to achieve the best flavor and color. To ensure successful pollination, plant another apple variety nearby.
- Zones: 3 to 5
- Size: 8 feet tall x 10 to 15 feet wide
- Care Requirements: Full sun; well-draining soil rich in organic matter
2. Bali Cherry Tree
In early July, the Bali cherry tree becomes laden with tart red cherries that taste like cherry pie without added sugar. The tree’s dark red bark and deep green leaves add visual interest to any garden.
Expert Insight: Fried notes that these cherries are delightful when eaten fresh for those who enjoy tart flavors or can be frozen for baking pies and making sauces.
- Zones: 3 to 5
- Size: 10 to 12 feet tall x 10 to 12 feet wide
- Care Requirements: Full sun; well-draining soil rich in organic matter
3. Mulberry Tree
A cold-hardy favorite, the mulberry tree is easy to grow, self-pollinating, and yields an abundance of fruit. The berries resemble blackberries but lack seeds or thorns, making them a favorite among songbirds and humans alike.
Expert Insight: Fried praises the mulberry’s versatility—enjoy the fruit fresh, dried like raisins, or transformed into jams and sauces.
- Zones: 3 to 6
- Size: 10 to 50 feet tall x 10 to 40 feet wide
- Care Requirements: Full sun; well-draining soil rich in organic matter
4. Nova Pear Tree
Discovered thriving in the cold north of the Adirondack Mountains, the Nova pear tree is self-fertile and disease-resistant. It produces large, juicy yellow pears with a silky texture.
Expert Insight: Fried highlights its low maintenance and self-fertility, making it ideal for beginners. Pruning can keep its size manageable.
- Zones: 3 to 5
- Size: 15 to 20 feet tall x up to 20 feet wide
- Care Requirements: Full sun; well-draining soil rich in organic matter
5. Apricot Tree
An apricot tree adds beauty and fragrance to any landscape with its bountiful spring blossoms. Vibrant red new growth contrasts beautifully with older wood, creating a striking appearance.
Expert Insight: Sorber advises thinning the fruit when it reaches thumb size to promote larger apricots and reduce disease. Apricots are perfect for fresh eating, jams, and drying.
- Zones: 4 to 9 (some varieties for Zone 10)
- Size: Up to 25 feet tall x 25 feet wide (cultivated varieties: 12 to 18 feet tall)
- Care Requirements: Full sun; well-draining sandy soil preferred
6. Alderman Plum Tree
Originating in Minnesota, this disease-resistant plum tree thrives in extreme cold and can produce fruit as early as its first year. The tree’s fragrant white to pale pink spring flowers give way to red, juicy plums.
Expert Insight: Fried compares the Alderman plum’s rich juiciness to mangos, making it a standout in cold climates. Plant alongside other Japanese-American plums for pollination.
- Zones: 3 to 5
- Size: 10 feet tall x 15 feet wide
- Care Requirements: Full sun; well-draining soil; sheltered from strong winds
7. Pie Cherry Tree
A favorite for pie lovers, this tree’s fragrant blossoms attract pollinators, and the bright red cherries create a striking contrast against deep green leaves.
Expert Insight: Sorber points out that the Pie Cherry tree requires minimal thinning and is among the earliest crops to ripen. Protect the tree from birds with netting to enjoy more of the harvest.
- Zones: 4 to 7
- Size: 12 feet tall x 5 to 10 feet wide
- Care Requirements: Full sun; well-draining soil rich in organic matter
Start Your Cold-Climate Orchard Today
Growing fruit trees in colder climates is entirely possible with the right varieties. Whether you’re looking for tart cherries, crisp apples, or juicy plums, these seven hardy trees are sure to bring beauty and bounty to your garden. Don’t forget to verify your USDA hardiness zone before planting to ensure optimal growth and harvest.
Jenifer
