Planting Fruit Trees – What to Consider & Where to Buy

There are thousands of varieties of fruit trees, and choosing one for your urban yard can be challenging. With limited yard space, you want to pick carefully and hopefully end up with a tree that will provide you with fresh fruit for many years. 

Before purchasing your fruit trees, you need to consider a few variables. 

Size. Fruit trees come in full, semi-dwarf, and dwarf sizes. There are even miniature and columnar varieties that will fit in patio containers. In my half-acre yard, I’ve planted semi-dwarf fruit trees. They don’t take up too much space and won’t get too tall to easily pick fruit. In a smaller yard, dwarf trees may be a better fit. Only have a balcony or patio? Choose a container-sized tree. 

Climate. Check your growing zone! In Zone 7b, I can’t grow citrus fruit, but apples and pears do well. (Note to experienced gardeners—The USDA Plant Hardiness Zones were updated in 2023. Check to see if your zone has changed.)

Sunlight. Most fruit trees require a sunny location for good growth and fruit production. A few varieties will tolerate partial shade. Pawpaw trees are understory trees that grow well in shadier spots. 

Pollination Needs. Many fruit trees need a partner tree for cross-pollination needs. For those trees, you’ll need to plant at least two varieties to have good fruit production. Other trees are “self-pollinating” varieties. These plants do not need another variety present for pollination. If you only have room for one apple tree, choose one that is self-pollinating. The images below from Stark Bro’s are an example of what to look for.

Where to Purchase Fruit Trees

Stark Bro’s is a reputable grower with many options to choose from. Their site allows you to easily filter based on your growing zone, size needs, and more.

Trees of Antiquity is a California-based fruit nursery, specializing in antique and heritage tree varieties. I purchased my apple trees here when I wanted antique varieties that grew well in my Appalachian microclimate.  

Raintree Nursery sells many unusual fruits and varieties that you can’t easily find elsewhere. If you’d like to plant something unique, look through the options there. 

Your Local Nursery. Local plant nurseries (not big box stores!) will often have a great selection of fruit trees that grow well in your area, and have experienced staff that can offer suggestions and good advice. A quick internet search can point you in their direction. 

Coming Up Next: My favorite fruit trees for your urban orchard!