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Gardening tips for Duluth's Northern climate, hosted by Master Gardener Tom Kasper.

Tips for Hardy Gardeners: Fruit Trees

Apple Blossoms
Chris Harwood
Apple Blossoms

In the increasingly modernized, mechanized, and compartmentalized world, recent events have reminded us of the ability (at least in part) to grow food at home.

Besides garden vegetables, Tom Kasper suggests fruit-bearing trees are a great option. There are a surprising number of options when choosing a tree variety, depending on the way that you might use the fruit. Do you prefer fresh fruit? Fruit for baking? Fruit that can be stored for long(er) periods? Beyond that, are you looking for an early producer, or mid or late season? What size tree would best fit your needs?

Luckily, there are varieties of apples, for example, that would fit whatever parameters work for you. And what's more, beyond apple trees, there are certain pears, plums, and even peaches (!) that could do quite well in the Northland. But whatever you choose, one of the key factors is making sure that there is another pollinator nearby – say, another compatible fruit tree – so that your tree will be able to produce fruit. If there isn't another pollinator, consider buying two trees so they can be pollinating companions. Look around your neighborhood. If someone else has a fruit tree, then your trees can work together to create wonderful food in the coming years.

Chris Harwood is The North 1033’s Production Director and (acting) Program Director, a morning/daytime host, and the host of Soul Village. He is also a musician, a music historian, an audio engineer, and an avid record collector.
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