Why Fall is the Best Time to Plant These 5 Fruit Trees in Southern Ontario
Fall is the perfect time to plant certain fruit trees in Southern Ontario. The cool temperatures and increased rainfall create ideal conditions for establishing strong root systems. This helps ensure your fruit trees are ready to thrive in the spring and then produce by next fall. In this blog, we’ll highlight the best fruit trees to plant during the autumn season and what each tree needs to flourish in your garden.
1. Apple Trees
Apple trees are one of the most popular fruit trees to plant in Southern Ontario. Hardy and adaptable to our climate, they benefit greatly from fall planting. Crab apple trees are also native to North America, making them an extra resilient species.
Needs:
- Soil : Well-drained, loamy soil.
- Sunlight : Full sun, at least 6-8 hours per day.
- Water : Regular watering, especially in the first few weeks after planting.
Popular varieties for the region include McIntosh , Empire , and Honeycrisp . These varieties thrive in the local climate and produce delicious fruit in the late summer and fall.
2. Pear Trees
Pear trees are another excellent choice for fall planting. Related to apple trees, they benefit from the cooler weather and reduced stress when planted in fall.
Needs:
- Soil : Loamy soil with good drainage.
- Sunlight : At least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
- Water : Consistent watering, particularly in the early weeks of establishment.
Recommended pear varieties include Bartlett and Bosc , which do well in Southern Ontario and offer juicy, flavorful fruit.
3. Plum Trees
Plum trees are well-suited for the Southern Ontario climate and perform best when planted in fall. These trees enjoy cooler temperatures as they establish roots before winter.
Needs:
- Soil : Moist, well-draining soil.
- Sunlight : Full sun to partial shade.
- Water : Regular watering during the establishment phase.
Varieties like Stanley and Damson thrive in the region, providing sweet plums perfect for eating fresh or preserving.
4. Cherry Trees
For a burst of flavour and colour, cherry trees are a great fall planting option. Fall planting ensures the roots develop before the hot summer, making it easier for the tree to bear fruit. You’ll also enjoy beautiful blossoms in the springtime.
Needs:
- Soil : Well-drained, sandy loam.
- Sunlight : Full sun, at least 6 hours daily.
- Water : Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, especially after planting.
Popular varieties include Montmorency for tart cherries and Sweetheart for sweet cherries.
5. Peach Trees
While peach trees are slightly more sensitive to cold, fall planting gives them a chance to establish strong roots for spring growth. The sunnier and more south your property is, the better.
Needs:
- Soil : Well-drained sandy loam.
- Sunlight : Full sun, at least 8 hours a day.
- Water : Regular watering, especially after planting, to encourage root growth.
Redhaven and Reliance are excellent peach varieties for the Southern Ontario climate.
Why Fall?
Planting fruit trees in the fall allows them to settle into the soil and establish roots before the onset of winter. This period of dormancy lets the trees focus on root growth rather than fruit production, giving them a head start when spring arrives. The cooler weather also reduces the risk of transplant shock, which can occur when trees are planted in the heat of summer.
Need Tree Care? We’re Here to Help
Ready to plant the perfect fruit trees this fall? Breakaway Landscaping offers landscaping advice and professional tree services to ensure your trees thrive for years to come! Contact us today for planting guidance.
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