Fruit Trees in A Desert Garden

Apricots, Plums and Peaches can be grown in the desert

Jul 14, 2006

Fruit trees may be a little more difficult to grow in the desert than in more temperate regions, but they can add a wonderful dimension and beauty.

Yes, you can grow fruit trees in the desert. Although there are many fruit species that have not adapted to desert climate and soils, you can still grow fruit trees, although perhaps not as easily as you can grow them in other, more temperate areas.

In this article we'll look at some of the common and individual problems that the desert gardener might experience, and some varieties that are best suited to desert gardening.

First, let's look at some things that can damage or limit the growth and production of your fruit trees.

Late spring frosts, which occur frequently in higher altitudes, can damage flowers and the young fruit of species that flower early. Also in some areas, minimum winter temperatures limit number of species that can thrive there.

High intensity sunlight, also common in desert areas, can limit the life span of fruit trees. Highly alkaline soils, most common in desert areas, can result in mineral deficiencies. And finally, high soluble salt content in both soil and water can damage fruit trees.

Apricots.

Apricots are trees that are already adapted to alkaline soils, and usually mineral deficiencies in soil do not pose any problems with this species. Apricots live along time, have attractive leaves, and, in addition to fruit, they also provide shade.

One problem with apricots is that they tend to flower early enough in spring to sustain injuries from late frosts. The young fruit appear to be more susceptible that plums, peaches or almonds.

You can expect a full crop about once in five years in lower elevations (below 5,000 feet), and minor or no production in the other four years. Above 5,000 feet, you're looking at less production.

For varieties that bloom a little later than other varieties, try "Tilton" and "Sun Glo."

Plums.

European varieties of plums generally flower later than Japanese plums and often are not injured by late frosts. They do best in northern areas and higher desert altitudes. "Italian," "Stanley," "Damson" and "Edwards" are the European varieties that are strongest.

However, in lower altitudes and more southern desert gardens, Japanese plums are probably the best choice. Japanese plums, because their fruit is more cold tolerant, can also be planted in higher elevations. "Methley," "Santa Rose," "Satsuma," "Gold" and "Sepa."

Note that most plum varieties, with a few exceptions, need cross-pollination and two different varieties must be planted.

Peaches.

Don't expect your peach trees to live very long in the desert. Ten years is probably the longest. However, the peaches I have grown (and eaten) are well worth the trouble. And they are more trouble to care for.

Many peach growers paint the trunks with a white latex paint. This reflects strong winter sun, reduces sunscald and will extend the life of your tree. Annual pruning is also required. You may find that your peach trees are experiencing zinc deficiencies, which is common in sandy soils.

You can expect a full crop in one out of every four years. Some varieties that do better in desert soils and climates include the late blooming "Redhaven," "Dixie Red," and "Raritan Rose." Additional well-performing varieties include "Rio-Oso-Gem," "Glohaven," and "Sullivans Elberta." Try not to plant "Regular Elberta," because this variety sustains frost injury very quickly and easily.