Plums and Apricots in the Desert

Although a great many fruit species are not adapted to the climate and soil of desert areas, there are some that, when properly cared for, do fairly well in the desert.

In the desert, whether high or low desert, fruit growers have to contend with late spring frosts, highly alkaline and mineral deficient soils, low humidity, drying winds and even irrigation water that may be high in salts.

However, there are some fruits that can and will do well in desert environs.

Apricots

• Interestingly, apricots are well-adapted to alkaline soils, and can survive in mineral-deficient soils. They live a long time, are attractive, and can even be used as small shade trees. They do flower rather early and, in higher elevations, may be injured by late spring frosts. The young apricots also seem to be more susceptible frost. However, in the lower desert elevations, apricot growers can expect a full crop about once every five years. Two varieties include:

1. Tilton
2. Sun Glo

Plums

• In higher desert altitudes, European plum varieties seem to do better, mainly because they tend to flower later and thus escape late frosts. Recommended varieties include

1. Italian
2. Stanley
3. Damson
4. Edwards

Related articles:

1. Planting Desert Trees Part 1
2. Planting Desert Trees Part 2