Fruit trees can be a beautiful and practical addition to any Southern California yard. With a year-round temperate climate, this area is well-suited to growing a wide variety of fruit trees. Choosing the perfect fruit tree depends on several factors – what fruits you would like to eat, what is accessible or not in your area, and how much space you have. Read on to discover the best fruit trees for Southern California.
10 Best Fruit Trees for Southern California
1. Nectarine
Nectarine trees are an easy addition to any yard. This fuzzless peach has increased in popularity due to its pleasing texture and sweet taste! The trees are self-fruitful, and some varieties start producing in their second year of life. Additionally, several dwarf nectarine tree types can grow between four and seven feet, ideal for smaller spaces.
2. Orange
Orange trees bloom their beautiful white blossoms in the California springtime but are everbearing producers, meaning an orange tree will bring you fruit multiple times a year. These high-yielding trees store their fruit well and attract a variety of wildlife to your yard. Invest in an orange tree if you want nearly year-round fruit and delicious smells in your yard!
3. Fig
Although fig trees grow throughout the state, the Mediterranean-like climate of Southern California is where these fruits thrive. Fig trees are a hardy, drought-tolerant plant that grows effortlessly with little maintenance. Their fruit is most plentiful when supplemental irrigation and fertilizer are used, and when the large trees are given enough space to grow.
4. Lemon
The United States does not have many areas with an ideal climate for growing lemons. However, if you live in Southern California, you are in luck! You live in one of the most sought-after spots for growing citrus trees. Lemon trees do not tolerate the cold, needing warm winters and dry soil. A mature tree can produce far more lemons than any family can consume!
5. Apple
Apples are grown in many areas of the country, but certain varieties thrive in Southern California. Apples are beneficial for their many vitamins and minerals and can make a variety of recipes as well as natural medicinal remedies. Gala, Fuji, Red, and Golden Delicious types are some of the best for the weather in the area.
6. Pomegranate
Originally, pomegranates hail from Western and Southern Asia, but they can also grow well in dry climates like Southern California. They thrive in full sun and can become evergreen trees in warm areas. These pest and disease-resistant trees are low maintenance, and you can store their fruit for months.
7. Peaches
When considering peaches, you may think they can only be grown in the southeastern parts of the country. However, a peach tree can be a great addition to any full-sun Southern Californian yard. These large trees can grow up to 15-20 feet high and have coveted long green leaves. The fruit is harvested in the summer and is perfect for eating fresh, many recipes, or sharing with friends.
8. Persimmon
Persimmons are synonymous with the fall season. These trees can be placed almost anywhere in your yard, in full sunlight or partially shaded areas. The fruit is commonly eaten dried but can also be consumed fresh when it has reached a mushy texture. This hardy tree grows well in any soil, in both dry and wet areas.
9. Jujube
Jujubes, also known as Chinese or red dates, are small fruits perfect for snacking. In alternative medicine circles, they are known for helping insomnia, anxiety, and digestion. They can be used in recipes similarly to apples, as they have a caramel apple taste. They are dried on the branch and picked when their skin becomes wrinkled.
10. Avocado
In recent years, avocado has skyrocketed to culinary stardom. Luckily for Southern Californians, the climate is perfect for growing an avocado tree in your yard. Find a sunny spot away from the wind or any chill, and ensure you have sandy or clay-based soils to prevent water buildup.
What Fruit Tree Grows the Best in Southern California?
The best fruit trees for Southern California areas are citrus trees. Citrus trees such as lemons, limes, oranges, and grapefruits all grow extremely well in warm climates. Lemons especially are very cold intolerant. Citrus fruits prefer full sun and well-draining soil, which is commonly found throughout the area. Some varieties of citrus trees can even be planted in pots and grown on a balcony!
What is the Easiest Fruit Tree to Grow in California?
Fig trees are the easiest fruit tree to grow in Southern California. They are deciduous trees that lose their leaves in the winter, meaning they won’t provide much shade for half of the year. However, they make up for it by blooming twice a year, meaning you get two rounds of fresh fruit harvests. They can survive droughts, full sun, or partial shade and require very little maintenance. This makes fig trees great for beginner gardeners!
Design Scapes to Plant Your Fruit Trees
Southern California has the best climate in the nation for growing a wide variety of fruit trees. The moderate year-round temperatures make it simple to grow and maintain fruit trees. This amenable climate helps you enjoy the literal “fruits of your labor” faster and easier. When selecting a tree for your yard, it’s critical to consider your space, soil and drainage, sun exposure, and your family’s tastes and preferences.
