Fruit You Can Grow in the Hudson Valley!
Fruit Trees:
When growing fruit trees, it is best to plant two of the same kind tree, could a different variety, within fifty feet of each other to ensure pollination of the fruit. For example, and apple tree, one Pink Lady and one Macintosh is ok together.
Apple Trees:
It’s no surprise that we can grow apple trees here with the name of “The Big Apple” being one of our biggest cities. Our Hudson Valley is known for its many orchards and becomes a huge tourist attraction in the fall.
Plum Trees:
Plums are an amazing midsummer treat whether you like them sweet and juicy or tart with a crunch, they can do very well in our climate. You have to be mindful of which variety you go for since not all are suited for our 5-6 zone climate. Italian Prune is one that is well suited for an environment and perfect for new growers!
Cherry Trees:
There are two types of cherry trees, sour and sweet. Our climate is more suited for the sour variety as the sweet cherries need more heat to survive and can’t handle our harsh winters.
Pear Trees:
Much like apples, pears are well adapted to our environment and are very hardy.
Fig Trees:
Fig Trees are a bit more tricky. They can’t always make it through our harsh winters and need to be sheltered for the winter. Anything below 15-25 degrees can be very damaging. The best thing you can do is to plant them in a very large planter and move it in shelter every year like a garage or move inside.
Bush and Vine Fruits:
Consider using these as a living fence to your property as well as providing you with fruit! They can serve multiple purposes!
Blueberry Bushes:
It is recommended to get two varieties of northern blueberry bushes to get the best pollination but also that are suited for our climate. There you will have the most success
Blackberry and Raspberry Bushes:
These little plants can take over so be mindful! They provide a bountiful amount of fruit! Watch out for the those prickers! They defend themselves against hungry pests looking for a snack.
Grapevines:
Being in the Hudson Valley region helps create an amazing micro-climate for concord grapes, hence the high population of wineries in our area. The Hudson River lets off just enough heat to give these grapes what they need to thrive. These grapes are perfect for baking, making grape juice or try your hand at making your own wine!
Strawberries:
Once you plant your strawberries, it is in the best interest of the plant to not produce fruit in its first year but to focus on root growth. Strawberries are runners so this will allow many daughter plants to get established and allow for a healthy community of Strawberry plants. Protect them over the winter by waiting until they go dormant and cover with little bit of mulch to protect from direct frost
Annual Fruits:
These fruits will grow here over the summer but will not come back the following season. They need to be carefully watched to ensure their survival and you do not want to miss their harvest season!
Cantaloupe:
These guys grow on a vine and take their time. Plant once the threat of frost is over, but don’t wait too far because it takes them a few months to germinate and they won’t do well too far in September. Cantaloupes are ripe when they have a sweet aroma and and hollow sound.
Watermelon:
Very similar to cantaloupe. Melons don’t like to “get their feet wet” so make sure that soil is well drained or you will quickly notice rot. Their germination is long but the wait is so worth it!
