Thriving Fruit Trees that Grow in PA – Pennsylvania Garden Guide

Welcome to my Pennsylvania Garden Guide! Today, we’re looking at the best fruit trees for the PA climate. If you’re a Pennsylvania gardener looking to add some fruitful beauty to your backyard, you’ve come to the right place.

Fruit Trees That Grow In PA

The diversity of fruit trees you can grow in PA is remarkable. Apples, pears, plums, cherries, peaches, and berries are just a few of the fruit trees that love Pennsylvania’s climate. Even more tender fruits like figs and certain citrus trees can flourish with proper site selection and a bit of extra care.

As Rob Crassweller, former Professor of Horticulture at Pennsylvania State University, notes, “Some form of tree fruit can be grown in about every county in Pennsylvania,” highlighting the state’s versatility for fruit cultivation. The success of these trees depends on understanding and preparing for the specific needs of each variety, especially in terms of winter hardiness and protection from spring frosts.

Here are my 11 favorite fruit trees for Pennsylvania:

1. Apple Trees

As the fourth-largest apple producer in the country, PA is an ideal place to grow apple trees. Here’s a rundown of apple varieties that are particularly well-suited to Pennsylvania’s climate:

1. York – This is a classic Pennsylvania apple, developed in the state itself. It’s known for its firmness and rich flavor, making it excellent for both fresh eating and baking.
2. McIntosh – A cold-hardy variety that’s perfect for Pennsylvania’s climate. McIntosh apples are juicy and tangy, great for snacking and sauce-making.
3. Honeycrisp – This apple variety has gained popularity for its exceptional crispness and sweet-tart flavor. It’s also cold-hardy and has a good storage life.
4. Fuji – Known for its sweet flavor and firm texture, Fuji apples are great for eating fresh. They’re also quite cold-tolerant, making them a good choice for Pennsylvania growers.
5. Golden Delicious – A versatile apple that’s as good in pies as it is eaten out of hand. It’s self-fertile, which is a bonus for smaller gardens where space for multiple trees might be limited.
6. Stayman Apple (Malus domestica ‘Stayman’) – Developed in Kansas but does very well in Pennsylvania. It’s an offspring of the Winesap, with a rich, slightly tart flavor that’s great for cider.

Apple trees in Pennsylvania thrive in well-drained, loamy soil and benefit from full sun exposure. They do require some maintenance, including pruning and pest management, to ensure a healthy and productive crop.

Most apple varieties are not self-fertile, so you’ll need at least two compatible varieties for cross-pollination to get fruit. Always consider the space you have available, as apple trees can vary in size from dwarf to standard.

2. Pear Trees

Pear trees are another fantastic choice for Pennsylvania gardens, offering both beautiful blossoms and delicious fruit. Here are five pear varieties that are known to perform well in Pennsylvania’s climate:

1. Bartlett – This is one of the most popular pears in the world and for good reason. It’s juicy, sweet, and perfect for eating fresh or canning. Bartlett pears are also relatively easy to grow and are quite productive.
2. Seckel – Often referred to as a “sugar pear,” the Seckel pear is small in size but packs a flavorful punch. It’s sweet with a spicy kick and is highly productive in the Pennsylvania climate.
3. Anjou – Both the green and red varieties of Anjou pears do well in Pennsylvania. They are known for their sweet, mild flavor and firm texture, which holds up well in cooking.
4. Kieffer – This pear is a cross between the Chinese sand pear and a European pear. It’s incredibly hardy, making it a good choice for Pennsylvania’s variable climate. The fruit is crisp and is often used for baking and preserves.
5. Bosc – Bosc pears have a distinctive russeted skin and a sweet, spicy flavor. They’re excellent for eating fresh or using in desserts, and they’re known for their good storage life.

Pear trees generally prefer full sun and well-drained soil. They can be susceptible to a few diseases, like fire blight, so it’s important to choose resistant varieties and to practice good tree maintenance. Most pear varieties also require cross-pollination, so planting two different compatible varieties is essential for fruit production.

3. Peach Trees

Peach trees can be a bit more challenging to grow in Pennsylvania due to their susceptibility to late frosts and certain diseases, but choosing the right varieties can lead to delicious rewards. Here are a handful of peach varieties that are known for their hardiness and suitability for Pennsylvania’s climate:

1. Reliance – True to its name, this variety is known for its reliability in cold climates. It produces sweet, juicy peaches that are good for fresh eating and canning.
2. Redhaven – The Redhaven is often the standard by which other peach varieties are judged. It’s an all-purpose peach with great flavor and is resistant to peach leaf curl, a common disease.
3. Contender – This variety is winter hardy and has good resistance to bacterial spot, another common issue for peach trees. It produces sweet, flavorful peaches that are excellent for fresh eating.
4. Elberta – Elberta peaches are known for their large size and good flavor. They’re a traditional choice for canning and baking but are also delicious when eaten fresh.
5. Cresthaven– This variety is a late-season producer, which can be an advantage in Pennsylvania where late frosts can be a concern. Cresthaven peaches are sweet, juicy, and have good storage life.

“In the milder climates of south-central and southeastern Pennsylvania, stone fruits such as peaches, nectarines, cherries, and apricots are more likely to prosper,” notes Rob Crassweller.

“These fruits are somewhat vulnerable to the state’s colder winters and the risk of spring frosts can affect their flowering period, leading to inconsistent yields in the northern regions.”

“While cherries and plums are slightly more cold-resistant, it’s advisable not to plant stone fruits in areas where winter temperatures drop below -20 F. Apples and pears, on the other hand, are generally more robust and can be expected to do well throughout Pennsylvania, with the exception of the very coldest areas.”

Plant your peach trees in a location with well-drained soil and full sun exposure for the healthiest growth and fruit production. Peaches also require regular pruning to maintain an open canopy, which helps with air circulation and sunlight penetration, reducing the risk of disease.

4. Cherry Trees

Cherry trees can be a great addition to Pennsylvania gardens, but choosing the right varieties and understanding their care is crucial for success.

1. Montmorency – The gold standard for tart cherries, Montmorency is very cold-hardy and well-suited to Pennsylvania’s climate. It’s self-fertile and excellent for pies and preserves.
2. Stella – A sweet cherry that is self-fertile and has better cold tolerance than many other sweet varieties. It’s a good choice for Pennsylvania growers who want to try sweet cherries, as it’s somewhat more resilient and produces large, flavorful fruit.
3. North Star – A compact, cold-hardy tart cherry variety that’s ideal for smaller spaces and harsher Pennsylvania climates. It’s self-fertile and produces bright red, tart cherries.

While sweet cherries like Bing and Black Tartarian can be grown in Pennsylvania, they are less cold-hardy and may struggle without optimal conditions. They require a protected site, well-drained soil, and a good pest and disease management strategy. Sweet cherries also typically need a compatible pollinator for fruit production.

For those in colder parts of Pennsylvania or those seeking less maintenance, tart cherry varieties are more reliable. They are hardier, self-fertile, and generally have fewer issues with pests and diseases. Regardless of the type, cherry trees need full sun and well-drained soil to thrive.

5. Plum Trees

Plum trees are versatile and can be a great choice for Pennsylvania growers, with varieties available for both fresh eating and culinary use. It’s important to consider the two main types: European plums (Prunus domestica) and Japanese plums (Prunus salicina). European plums tend to be more cold-hardy and are usually a better fit for Pennsylvania’s climate.

1. Stanley – This European variety is quite popular and well-adapted to Pennsylvania’s climate. It’s excellent for fresh eating, drying, and canning. Stanley plums are also self-fertile, which is a bonus if you have limited space.
2. Italian Prune – Another European variety, the Italian prune plum, is known for its sweet flavor and is excellent for drying into prunes. It’s cold-hardy and performs well in Pennsylvania.
3. Damson – Damson plums are small and tart, ideal for jams and preserves. They’re very hardy and have a long history of cultivation in the state.
4. President – A late-ripening European variety that’s suitable for colder areas of Pennsylvania. The President plum is known for its large size and good flavor.

For those interested in Japanese plum varieties, which are typically larger and juicier but less cold-hardy, consider:

1. Methley – Methley is one of the more cold-hardy Japanese varieties and can do well in Pennsylvania, especially in warmer regions. It’s self-fertile and produces sweet, juicy fruit.

Plant your plum trees in a sunny location with well-drained soil. Most European plums are self-fertile, but even they can benefit from cross-pollination for a more abundant crop. Japanese plums usually require a pollinator, so you’ll need to plant at least two compatible varieties. Proper pruning, pest management, and disease control are also key to maintaining a healthy plum tree.

6. Apricot Trees

Apricot trees can be a bit of a gamble in Pennsylvania due to their early bloom times and susceptibility to late frosts, but with the right care and selection, they can be a rewarding addition to your garden. Here are some apricot varieties that are known to be more tolerant of the variable Pennsylvania climate:

1. Moorpark – This is an old variety known for its exceptionally sweet and flavorful fruit. It ripens in late summer and is considered one of the best-tasting apricots.
2. Harlayne – A more recent introduction, this variety is noted for its cold hardiness and resistance to disease, making it a good choice for Pennsylvania orchards.
3. Goldcot – Developed in Michigan, Goldcot is designed for cold climates and is known for its good flavor and firmness, making it suitable for both fresh eating and canning.
4. Wilson Delicious – This variety is praised for its large, sweet fruit and its ability to withstand colder temperatures, which is a plus for Pennsylvania growers.

If you’d like to grow apricots in Pennsylvania, it’s crucial to choose a protected site that minimizes the risk of frost damage to the early blossoms. Apricots generally require full sun and well-drained soil. They are self-fertile, so you don’t need more than one tree to produce fruit, but having more can increase your yield.

It’s also important to implement a good pest and disease management strategy, as apricots can be prone to issues like bacterial spot and apricot scab.

7. Nectarine Trees

Nectarine trees are close relatives to peaches and can thrive in Pennsylvania. Look for hardy varieties that can withstand the sometimes unpredictable PA climate. Here are a few nectarine varieties known for their resilience and suitability for cooler regions like Pennsylvania:

1. Hardired Nectarine – As the name suggests, this variety is known for its hardiness. It produces large, red-skinned fruits with a delicious flavor.
2. Arctic Glo Nectarine – This variety offers a cold-hardy choice with a tart flavor, which is a hit for those who like a little zing in their fruit.
3. Arctic Star Nectarine – This is an early-season white-fleshed nectarine that is sweet and juicy, and it’s known for its cold tolerance.
4. Independence Nectarine – This one is a freestone variety that’s resistant to some of the common diseases that can affect stone fruit trees in humid climates like Pennsylvania’s.
5. Sunglo Nectarine – Late-season variety that’s hardy and produces sweet, large fruit.

8. Fig Trees

Figs are a bit of a special case in Pennsylvania due to their preference for warmer climates, but with some care, they can be grown successfully. This is especially true in the warmer parts of the state or if you provide them with winter protection in cooler areas. Here are some fig varieties that can do well in Pennsylvania:

1. Brown Turkey – This variety is known for its hardiness and ability to withstand colder temperatures better than many other fig varieties. It produces large, sweet fruit that is excellent for fresh eating and drying.
2. Chicago Hardy Fig – As the name suggests, this fig is tough. It’s one of the most cold-hardy varieties, capable of surviving chilly winters with some protection. It yields a rich, sweet harvest.
3. Celeste – Also known as the “sugar fig,” Celeste is small and sweet with a tight closed end which helps to resist souring. It’s quite cold-hardy and performs well in Pennsylvania, especially when planted in a sheltered location.
4. LSU Purple Fig – Developed by Louisiana State University, this variety is relatively new and is noted for its vigorous growth and good cold tolerance. The fruit is sweet with a high sugar content.

Plant your fig trees in a location that gets full sun and has good drainage. Figs also benefit from being planted against a south-facing wall or in a sunny corner to maximize heat during the growing season. In colder parts of the state, figs may need to be wrapped or otherwise protected during the winter to prevent cold damage.

Figs are self-fertile, so you only need one tree to produce fruit. They can be grown in the ground or in large containers that can be moved to a protected location during winter. With the right care, including regular watering during the growing season and protection from severe cold, figs can be a rewarding fruit tree for PA.

9. Pawpaw Trees

Pawpaw trees are a bit of a hidden gem in the fruit world, and they’re native to Pennsylvania, making them a superb choice for local gardens. They’re not only adapted to the climate but also bring a taste of the tropics to the temperate zone with their custard-like fruit. Here are some details about pawpaws for Pennsylvania growers:

Common Pawpaw (Asimina triloba)

This is the species you’ll find growing wild in Pennsylvania’s woodlands. It produces medium to large fruits with a creamy texture and a flavor that’s often compared to bananas mixed with mangoes. The trees are also quite ornamental with their large, drooping leaves.

When Cultivating Pawpaws, Consider:

• Pollination: Pawpaws are not self-pollinating, so you’ll need at least two genetically different trees to get fruit. Some people even hang rotting meat or place manure near the trees during flowering to attract the necessary pollinators, which are typically flies and beetles.
• Shade Tolerance: Young pawpaw trees are naturally understory trees and can tolerate shade. However, they will produce more fruit if planted in full sun.
• Soil Requirements: They prefer rich, well-drained soil that’s slightly acidic to neutral.
• Watering: Pawpaws like moist soil, especially when they’re young, but mature trees are quite drought-tolerant.
• Fertilization: They don’t usually require fertilization if planted in decent soil but can benefit from a layer of compost in the spring.
• Harvesting: The fruit ripens in the late summer to early fall and will fall from the tree when it’s ready to eat. It’s best to eat it fresh or process it soon after harvesting, as it doesn’t store well.
• Pest and Disease Resistance: Pawpaws have few pest or disease problems, which is a big plus for organic growers or those who prefer not to spray.

There are also several named varieties of pawpaw that have been selected for superior fruit size, quality, and yield, such as ‘Shenandoah‘, ‘Susquehanna‘, ‘Potomac‘, and ‘Allegheny‘. These varieties are often available from specialty nurseries and can provide a more consistent and abundant crop than wild seedlings.

10. Persimmon Trees

Persimmon trees are another excellent choice for Pennsylvania, particularly because there are varieties that are native to North America and well-suited to the climate. Here are some persimmon varieties that can thrive in Pennsylvania:

1. American Persimmon (Diospyros virginiana) – This native species is highly adaptable and can handle Pennsylvania winters. The fruit is astringent until fully ripe but becomes sweet and rich. It’s often used in puddings, breads, and can be eaten fresh once it’s soft and fully ripe.
2. Fuyu Persimmon (Diospyros kaki ‘Fuyu’) – This is a non-astringent variety of Asian persimmon that can be eaten while still firm. It’s sweet and crisp, somewhat resembling the flavor and texture of an apple. Fuyu persimmons do need a bit more care in Pennsylvania, particularly in protecting them from the coldest weather.
3. Hachiya Persimmon (Diospyros kaki ‘Hachiya’) – This is an astringent Asian variety that is shaped like an acorn and is known for its use in baking due to its rich flavor once fully ripe and soft. Like the Fuyu, it may require some winter protection in Pennsylvania.
4. Tanenashi Persimmon (Diospyros kaki ‘Tanenashi’) – This variety is cone-shaped and astringent, valued for its sweet, jelly-like fruit when ripe. It’s another Asian variety that can be grown in Pennsylvania with some care.

When Growing Persimmons In PA, Consider:

• Site Selection: Choose a sunny spot with well-drained soil. Persimmons can tolerate a range of soil types but do not like to be waterlogged.
• Cold Hardiness: American persimmons are very cold-hardy and are the best choice for areas of Pennsylvania with harsher winters. Asian persimmons can be grown in the warmer parts of the state or with winter protection.
• Pollination: Many American persimmon varieties are dioecious, meaning you need both male and female trees for fruit production. However, some newer cultivars are self-fertile. Asian persimmons are often parthenocarpic, which means they can produce fruit without pollination.
• Care: Persimmon trees require little maintenance once established. They don’t need much pruning and are relatively pest and disease-resistant.
• Harvesting: For astringent varieties, it’s crucial to wait until the fruit is fully ripe before harvesting. Non-astringent varieties like Fuyu can be eaten while still firm.

11. Quince Trees

Quince is a unique fruit tree that’s often overlooked, but it can be a great addition to a Pennsylvania garden. The fruit is fantastic for jams, jellies, and preserves due to its high pectin content. Here are a couple of quince varieties that are known to do well in Pennsylvania’s climate:

1. Aromatnaya Quince – This Russian variety is valued for its aromatic, lemon-scented fruit and is known to be more cold-hardy than some other varieties.
2. Pineapple Quince – This variety is named for its pineapple-like flavor and is quite popular. It’s hardy and produces large, yellow fruit.
3. Smyrna Quince – Known for its large, pear-shaped fruit with a rich flavor, Smyrna is another variety that’s well-suited to Pennsylvania’s climate.
4. Champion Quince – Champion matures late and is known for its vigor and productivity. It’s also resistant to some of the common diseases that affect quince trees.
5. Orange Quince – This variety is prized for its bright orange fruit and is a reliable producer in cooler climates.

Quince trees do best in a sunny, well-drained location. They can tolerate a range of soil types but prefer to be on the drier side rather than too wet. Quince trees are also self-fertile, so you don’t need to plant more than one for fruit production, but having more than one can increase yield.

12. Mulberry Trees

Mulberry trees are a fantastic choice for Pennsylvania, as they’re robust, low-maintenance, and can produce an abundance of sweet fruit. Here are some mulberry varieties that are well-suited to Pennsylvania’s climate:

1. Red Mulberry (Morus rubra) – This is a native species to Eastern North America and is well adapted to the Pennsylvania climate. It produces large, sweet berries that are dark red to black when ripe.
2. Illinois Everbearing Mulberry (Morus alba x Morus rubra) – This hybrid is known for its long fruiting season and sweet, large berries. It’s cold-hardy and resistant to drought, making it a good choice for various locations within the state.
3. White Mulberry (Morus alba) – While not native and considered invasive in some areas, the white mulberry is very hardy and produces sweet, light-colored fruit. It’s important to plant non-invasive cultivars to prevent spreading.
4. Black Mulberry (Morus nigra) – Although it’s less cold-hardy than the red or white mulberries, the black mulberry can still be grown in Pennsylvania, especially in the warmer southern regions. It’s known for its large, blackberries with a complex, rich flavor.
5. Weeping Mulberry (Morus alba ‘Pendula’) – If you’re looking for a mulberry that’s also ornamental, this weeping variety can be a great choice. It’s hardy and produces sweet fruits, but it’s also a beautiful tree with its unique form.

Mulberries are incredibly adaptable and can tolerate a range of soil conditions, though they prefer a sunny location. They’re also self-fertile, so you don’t need more than one to get fruit.

One thing to note is that mulberry trees can be quite messy, as the fruit drops when ripe, so it’s best to plant them away from walkways and driveways. They’re also a favorite of birds, so if you’re hoping to harvest the fruit for yourself, you might need to net the trees.

Native Fruits of Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania is home to several native fruit trees that have adapted to its climate and soil over millennia. Here are some native fruit trees that you can find across Pennsylvania:

1. Pawpaw (Asimina triloba) – This understory tree is native to the Eastern United States and produces large, custard-like fruits. It’s one of the more unique native fruits and has a tropical flavor that’s often compared to bananas or mangoes.
2. American Persimmon (Diospyros virginiana) – The American persimmon is a native tree that produces sweet, slightly astringent fruit when fully ripe. It’s highly adaptable to different soil types.
3. Serviceberry (Amelanchier spp.) – Also known as Juneberry or shadbush, serviceberries are small to medium-sized trees that produce early summer fruits that resemble blueberries in size and color and are delicious fresh or in pies.
4. American Plum (Prunus americana) – This native plum tree produces small, sweet fruits that can be eaten fresh or used in jams and jellies.
5. Eastern Redbud (Cercis canadensis) – While not grown primarily for its fruit, the redbud does produce small, edible seed pods. It’s more often planted for its stunning spring flowers.
6. Wild Crabapple (Malus coronaria) – The wild crabapple is a native species that produces small, tart apples that are great for wildlife and can be used in jellies and ciders.
7. Mulberry (Morus rubra) – The red mulberry is native to Eastern North America and produces sweet, elongated fruits that are enjoyed by both people and wildlife.
8. Elderberry (Sambucus canadensis) – Not a tree but a large shrub, elderberry is native to the area and produces clusters of dark purple berries that are often used in syrups, jams, and wines.

These native trees are not only adapted to the climate and soil conditions but also play a crucial role in supporting local wildlife. They provide food for birds, mammals, and insects, and contribute to the ecological balance of their native habitats. Planting native species is a great way to maintain biodiversity and ensure a productive and healthy garden or orchard.

Berries for Pennsylvania

Whether you’re a fan of strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, blueberries, or gooseberries, there’s a berry bush that can thrive in the Pennsylvania climate. Growing berry bushes in PA is relatively easy, but it’s important to choose the right varieties that are well-suited to the state’s climate.

Best Berries for PA

• Strawberries: Try popular varieties like Earliglow, Allstar, or Jewel for a sweet and juicy harvest.
• Raspberries: Consider growing Heritage or Autumn Britten for their excellent flavor and abundant yields.
• Blackberries: Chester and Triple Crown are thornless varieties that produce large, juicy berries.
• Blueberries: Choose highbush varieties like Bluecrop, Jersey, or Duke for their flavorful berries.
• Gooseberries: Invicta and Hinnomaki Red are popular gooseberry varieties that are well-suited to Pennsylvania gardens.

Growing Tips for Berries

1. Planting: Berry bushes thrive in well-drained soil with full sun exposure. Prepare the soil by adding organic matter and planting the bushes at the appropriate depth.
2. PH: Most berry bushes prefer slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5. Test your soil and make necessary amendments to achieve the optimal pH level. For blueberries, the soil pH should be even more acidic, typically between 4.5 and 5.5.
3. Watering: Regular watering is crucial, especially during dry spells. Ensure the soil is consistently moist but not waterlogged.
4. Pruning: Proper pruning helps maintain the health and productivity of your berry bushes. Prune in late winter or early spring to remove dead or damaged wood and promote new growth.
5. Protection: Birds and other wildlife are attracted to berries, so protect your harvest by using netting or other deterrents. Monitor your berry bushes regularly for signs of pests or diseases. Common issues include aphids, spider mites, powdery mildew, fruit flies, and fruit rot.
6. Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch around the base of your berry bushes to suppress weeds and conserve soil moisture.
7. Harvesting: Each berry variety has its own optimal harvesting time. Generally, berries are ready to be harvested when they are fully ripe, easily detach from the plant, and have reached their full color.

Tips for Choosing The Perfect Fruit Tree

When you’re picking fruit trees for your homestead, consider the local wildlife (deer love young fruit trees), the soil conditions, and how much sun your planting site gets. Some trees, like apples and pears, need cross-pollination, so you’ll need more than one variety for fruit production.

Also, think about how much time you can dedicate to pruning, pest control, and harvesting. Fruit trees can be a bit of a commitment, but there’s nothing like biting into fruit you’ve grown yourself. Happy planting!