Arkansas, known for its diverse terrain ranging from the mountainous regions of the Ozarks to the rich delta lowlands, offers a unique climate for cultivating a variety of fruit trees. The state’s climate is largely humid subtropical with hot summers and mild winters, which makes it an ideal location for growing a myriad of fruits. This article delves into ten of the best fruit trees to grow in Arkansas, providing homeowners and farmers with insights into making the best selections for their orchards.
If you’re looking to cultivate fruit trees in the Natural State, consider these ten exceptional choices which thrive in Arkansas’s unique climate. From the juicy peaches to the sweet persimmons, there’s something for every fruit lover in this list.
1. Peach Trees (Prunus persica)
- Varieties: June Gold, Redhaven, and Surecrop.
- Overview: Peach trees thrive exceptionally well in Arkansas’s climate, producing juicy and sweet fruits.
- Planting and Care: Choose a sunny location with well-draining soil. Peaches prefer slightly acidic soil. Regular pruning helps in maintaining the tree’s shape and promoting better fruit yields.
- Harvesting: Peaches are typically ready for harvest in the summer months when they attain a soft texture and vibrant color.
2. Apple Trees (Malus domestica)
- Varieties: Arkansas Black, Red Delicious, and Fuji.
- Overview: Arkansas’s temperate climate is perfect for many apple varieties. The Arkansas Black, native to the state, is especially popular.
- Planting and Care: Apple trees need full sunlight and well-draining soil. They benefit from cross-pollination, so it’s beneficial to plant more than one variety.
- Harvesting: Depending on the variety, apples can be harvested from late summer to early fall.
3. Pear Trees (Pyrus)
- Varieties: Kieffer, Moonglow, and Ayers.
- Overview: Pears are easy to grow in Arkansas and provide a juicy treat when harvested.
- Planting and Care: These trees prefer full sun and slightly acidic soil. Ensure consistent watering during dry spells.
- Harvesting: Harvest pears when they are firm but slightly soft at the base.
4. Fig Trees (Ficus carica)
- Varieties: Celeste and Brown Turkey.
- Overview: Figs are a delightful addition to any Arkansan garden, producing sweet fruits.
- Planting and Care: Plant in a location where the tree can get ample sunlight. Figs require minimal care but protect them from extreme cold.
- Harvesting: Pick figs when they turn a deep purple or brown color and become slightly soft.
5. Persimmon Trees (Diospyros)
- Varieties: American Persimmon and Oriental Persimmon.
- Overview: Native to Arkansas, persimmons are sweet and slightly tangy fruits, great for desserts.
- Planting and Care: Full sun and well-draining soil are essential. Regular pruning can promote better fruiting.
- Harvesting: Harvest when fruits are fully ripe and have a soft texture.
6. Plum Trees (Prunus)
- Varieties: Methley, Bruce, and Ozark Premier.
- Overview: Plums, with their sweet and tart flavor, are a popular choice for gardens and orchards in Arkansas.
- Planting and Care: These trees thrive in full sun and require moderate watering.
- Harvesting: Plums are ready for picking in the summer when they exhibit a rich color and slight softness.
7. Cherry Trees (Prunus avium)
- Varieties: Stella and Montmorency.
- Overview: While cherries require specific conditions, they can be grown successfully in the right areas of Arkansas.
- Planting and Care: Cherries need full sunlight and fertile soil. They also benefit from a colder winter for dormancy.
- Harvesting: Typically, cherries are ready in the late spring to early summer.
8. Pomegranate Trees (Punica granatum)
- Varieties: Wonderful and Granada.
- Overview: Pomegranates provide beautiful blooms and juicy fruits, making them a great addition to Arkansas gardens.
- Planting and Care: These trees prefer full sun and can tolerate drought once established.
- Harvesting: Harvest pomegranates when they have a deep red hue and sound hollow when tapped.
9. Mulberry Trees (Morus)
- Varieties: Illinois Everbearing and Red Mulberry.
- Overview: Native to the region, mulberries are sweet berries that are often eaten fresh or used in jams.
- Planting and Care: These trees are not picky about the soil and can tolerate partial shade.
- Harvesting: Mulberries are ready to be picked when they are fully ripe, soft, and sweet.
10. Pawpaw Trees (Asimina triloba)
- Varieties: Susquehanna and Shenandoah.
- Overview: Often referred to as the “Arkansas banana,” pawpaws are creamy, tropical-flavored fruits.
- Planting and Care: They prefer partial shade and well-draining, fertile soil.
- Harvesting: Harvest pawpaws when they are slightly soft to touch and have a fragrant aroma.
Conclusion: Best Fruit Trees to Grow in Arkansas
Arkansas’s varied climate provides an ideal environment for a diverse array of fruit trees. The list above includes only a fraction of the best fruit trees to grow in Arkansas. When deciding on which trees to plant, consider factors such as soil type, available space, and personal preferences. With proper care, any of these trees can offer years of delicious fruit and shade for Arkansan homeowners and orchardists alike.
