Considering planting fruit trees in your yard? That’s awesome! But before you do, make sure you’re aware of these five important considerations.
Having fruit trees on your property is such an amazing way to connect with nature. Not only are they beautiful to look at, they also contribute to a more sustainable home because you’re growing organic produce – right in your own yard!
Some fruit trees are easier for beginners to care for than others. You’ll also need to choose a tree that is suited for the environment where you live.
Here are five important things to consider when planting fruit trees in order to help them flourish for many years to come!
When to Plant
The first thing you’re probably wondering about planting fruit trees is when you should plant them. If it is a bare-root tree, meaning it does not come in a pot and the roots are simply wrapped in plastic or fabric, then you’ll want to plant it in early spring when it is still dormant. The idea is that the tree goes to “sleep” at the nursery in the fall and then “wakes up” in your garden in the spring.
If the tree is in a container there is more flexibility as to when you can plant it. These trees can essentially be planted at any time in the spring, summer or fall. The trade off for the flexibility is that container-grown fruit trees are usually more expensive, heavier to transport and more labour intensive to plant.
Soil Type
Your local soil is a crucial element to the growth of any kind of fruit tree. Luckily, fruit trees aren’t as picky about their soil as more delicate plants such as vegetable or flowers.
The most important thing to keep in mind for almost any fruit tree is that your soil must be able to drain properly. If you want a fruit tree to thrive in your yard, you can’t have soil that will hold on to water for so long that the roots get waterlogged.
Sun Exposure
Not all fruit trees need to be in the sun every minute of the day, but it’s important to know your trees’ sun exposure needs.
Some trees do need full sun exposure in order to grow their fruit as efficiently as possible, while other fruit trees may prefer a little bit of shade, especially if they’re cold-weather trees.
Cold Weather Durability
Speaking of cold weather, one of the most important factors to consider when planting fruit trees is how well they can handle your winters. (And I know harsh winters – I live in Central Alberta, Canada!) If you live somewhere that doesn’t see harsh winters, almost any fruit tree will be able to survive the colder months.
However, places where winters are particularly brutal offer some challenges. Young saplings may need wrapping and protecting during the colder months so that frost, snow, and freezing temperatures don’t set in and kill them prematurely.
Growth Rate
Before you can plant fruit trees anywhere on your property, it’s a good idea to know the upper limits of their size so that you can plan ahead. Planting too many large trees close together isn’t sustainable for any of them, as it won’t allow them to reach their full potential.
Another important thing to consider is how fast the trees will grow. Buying very young saplings is a good way to start because it’s an affordable option, but you may not get to enjoy the fruit yourself if they’ll take decades to reach maturity.
I sure am excited to eat fresh fruit from my very own yard in the years to come!
CLICK TO SAVE FOR LATER!
Last Updated on June 27, 2025 (Originally Posted on January 4, 2022)
Former architectural technologist. Current treehugger.
I’m here to help you green your home – and your life.
Subscribe to the Of Houses and Trees monthly newsletter and I’ll send you my FREE list of “The 8 Best Places to Buy Eco-Conscious Decor Online.”
What on earth is sustainable design? Learn all about this eco-focused design method and read the latest posts about green architecture, interior design and decor.
Sustainable living is more than just a thing treehuggers talk about. It’s about making conscious choices everyday. Read the latest posts on living with the planet’s wellbeing always in mind.
Visit the Of Houses and Trees sustainable product directory and support brands trying to make a difference in the world.
Find out more about our 40 acres of land in Parkland County, Alberta and the sustainable home we built amongst the trees.
Need help creating the home of your dreams? Care about the planet? You’ve come to the right place! check out my affordable, sustainable e-design services.
Having a had time choosing paint colours? I’ve got you – and your walls – covered with an interior paint palette sure to compliment your home.
Have questions about creating an eco-conscious home? Go ahead – ask me! Sign up for one of my free online interior design consultations and ask me anything you want.
