Introduction

North central Missouri has a climate that is ideal for growing various types of fruit trees. The region's four-season climate, with hot summers and cold winters, provide a suitable environment for several fruit trees. If you're thinking of starting an orchard, you'll find some helpful information in this article on what fruit trees you can plant in North central Missouri.

Apple Trees

Apple trees are a popular choice for North central Missouri. They thrive in the region's moderate climate and are relatively easy to grow. If you're looking to plant apple trees, you should consider some common varieties such as Honeycrisp, Gala, and Fuji. These varieties are a perfect fit for the region's climate and soil, which is ideal for their growth. Moreover, apple trees require full sunlight and well-drained soils to flourish, so ensure that you choose a site that fits these specifications.

Peach Trees

Peach trees are another popular fruit tree that you can grow in North central Missouri. They do require specific environmental conditions to thrive, such as adequate sunlight, well-drained soils, and temperatures above -10°F. Several cold-hardy varieties are suitable for growing in this region, including Red Haven, Contender, and Elberta. These peach varieties have various ripening seasons, ranging from late May to early September, which ensures that you can have fresh peaches throughout summer.

Pear Trees

Pear trees are yet another popular choice for those looking to start an orchard in North central Missouri. They require cool weather and moist soils to grow correctly. In this region, the best varieties to plant are Bartlett, Comice, and Anjou. These pear varieties have various ripening seasons and are resistant to common pear diseases. You'll need to ensure that you plant them in an area that receives ample sunlight, as this is vital for proper fruit production.

Cherry Trees

Cherry trees are less common in North central Missouri, but they still grow well in the region's climate. They thrive in well-drained, acidic soils and require moderate watering. Some common cherry trees that you can plant include Bing, Rainier, and Stella. These varieties have different ripening times and can produce fruit for up to two weeks during the summer season. You should keep in mind that cherry trees are sensitive to frost, so select a site that's protected from late frosts in the spring.

Conclusion

Planting fruit trees is an excellent way to start a garden and enjoy a sustainable source of fresh, seasonal fruit. North central Missouri's climate provides an ideal environment for growing various types of fruit trees. Some of these fruit trees include apple, peach, pear, and cherry trees. While there may be other fruit trees that grow in the region, these varieties are among the most popular and easiest to grow. By planting them, you'll be supporting your local ecosystem and enjoying fresh fruit throughout the growing season.