Early spring brings a sense of rejuvenation, vitality and renewal; a revitalization that we gardeners see in our plants’ new leaves and blossoms. The season also generates activity in plants that produce edibles, especially those fruit trees that flourish in the higher elevations of Arizona. But there is more to fruit trees than just a bountiful harvest; they bring seasonal interchanges of colors and textures that provide fascinating diversity in our landscapes.
Fruit bearers’ spring blooms range in color from the purest bridal white and dainty pink to robust reds. Besides their visual glory, the sensuality of their sweet fragrances enhances any style of landscape. Then, in autumn, their leaf colors change to intense shades of red, glowing orange and solar yellow. Yes, edibles have it all – even if you never harvest a single fruit!
If, however, you are choosing fruit trees for their harvest, look for those that bloom latest; late blooming prevents frost damage that may take the fruits. Ask for help from the garden center staff, which make special note of the trees that grow best locally and those that don’t. Like other nursery professionals, I have been observing local landscapes for decades and experimented with hundreds of plants to determine the hardiest and most productive of these fruiting wonders. Here are my top choices:
Granny Smith Apples are one of my favorite fruits. This bright green apple is grown primarily as a dessert and cooking apple, but my mouth waters just thinking about a fruit freshly picked and immediately eaten in the shade of this landscape beauty. This late blooming variety consistently fruits in local gardens. Also consider Honeycrisp, Yellow Delicious and Gala apples.
Gleason Elberta Peach is the world’s most famous because of its abundant flavor and attractive color. These trees produce huge peaches of the highest quality. Also consider Redhaven, Ranger and Rio Oso Gem peaches.
Moorpark Apricot is the best red apricot, with a rich, luscious flavor. This large firm apricot is a local favorite for eating out-of-hand. The delicate pink blossoms set a red-blushed fruit that is ready as early as Independence Day. Also consider Harcot, Chinese and Tilton apricots.
Stella Cherry is very cold hardy. Its dense clusters of fruit resemble Bing varieties, but I find them to be sweeter than Bings. To many gardeners, the high-quality fruits of this prolific bearer seem to take a back seat to its magnificent blossoms. A majestic Stella cherry covered with its spectacular blooms indeed is one of the breathtaking beauties of spring. Also consider Bing, Van and Utah Giant cherries.
Pear, Nectarine, Plums, Almonds and Walnuts also produce well in the mountains of Arizona.
In addition to fruit trees, grape vines produce surprisingly well in our area. The fruits can be a tad smaller than their California cousins, but they are sweeter than other grapes I’ve tasted. The vines’ long tendrils make great shade cover as they climb arbors, decks and covered patios. The strongest seedless producers are the Flame and Thompson varieties but don’t dismiss the vineyard wine grapes.
Bountiful Blue Blueberry plants are hardy in the ground, but produce the best fruits when this showy shrub is grown in containers. They make exciting additions to full-sun areas just off a patio.
For a touch of a genuinely southwestern crop, delicate Manzanita blossoms produce dark fruits of a melt-in-your-mouth quality. Other native fruits are Mahonia and Currants.
Whichever edible appeals to you and your landscape, be sure to plant an extra, so you have enough to share with family, friends, and with your local food bank. You might be surprised at how appreciative they are to share in your bounty.
Until the next issue, I’ll be helping local gardens choose the perfect fruits here at Watters Garden Center. QCBN
By Ken Lain
Ken Lain can be found throughout the week at Watters Garden Center, 1815 W. Iron Springs Rd in Prescott, or contacted through his website at WattersGardenCenter.com or FB.com/WattersGardenCenter.