Fruit Trees to plant in Nordic climate

In addition to providing beautiful blossoms in the spring and fantastic colors in the fall, fruit trees also offer the opportunity to harvest your own fruit, which is both economical and environmentally friendly. Most fruit trees thrive in our climate, as long as they receive the right care and placement. Here, we go through some of the best fruit trees to grow in Nordic gardens and how to care for them to enjoy a good harvest every year.

1. Apple Tree (Malus domestica)

Apple trees are perhaps the most popular fruit trees in Swedish gardens. They are both beautiful and practical, and there are many different varieties to choose from – from tart Granny Smiths to sweeter varieties like Aroma and Åkerö. Apple trees not only provide fruit, but they are also known for their beautiful flowers in spring and their autumn leaf coloring. Most varieties thrive in our Nordic climate, and many are also self-pollinating, meaning you don’t always need multiple trees to get fruit.

Sun: Full sun.
Water: Apple trees need consistent watering, especially during dry periods.
Advantages: Many varieties, both tart and sweet.
Disadvantages: Susceptible to diseases such as apple scab and fruit tree gall mites, so regular pruning and treatment may be necessary.

2. Pear Tree (Pyrus communis)

Pear trees are another excellent option for Nordic gardens. Most pear trees can tolerate the colder climate and can provide delicious fruit that is both juicy and sweet. There are many varieties to choose from, including winter pears and summer pears, so you can pick the one that suits your taste and garden. Like apples, pear trees prefer full sun and well-drained soil.

Sun: Full sun.
Water: Pear trees need regular watering, especially during dry spells.
Advantages: Great flavor, can be grown in various ways – such as on a trellis or as a bush.
Disadvantages: Often require a pollinator companion to produce fruit.

3. Plum Tree (Prunus domestica)

Plum trees are a fantastic choice for anyone wanting to grow fruit in their garden, especially if you have a somewhat sheltered location. These trees bloom beautifully in spring and then produce plums in a variety of colors, from yellow to dark blue or purple. Plum trees thrive in the Nordic climate, but they do require some attention when it comes to pollination, as most varieties are not self-pollinating.

Sun: Full sun.
Water: Regular watering is needed, but plum trees do not tolerate standing water.
Advantages: Beautiful bloom, delicious fruit.
Disadvantages: Require pollination from another variety.

4. Cherry Tree (Prunus avium and Prunus cerasus)

Cherry trees are a popular tree in many Swedish gardens, with both sweet and sour cherry varieties to choose from. Cherry trees bloom early in the spring and provide a beautiful, fragrant display when in flower. When they bear fruit, you can enjoy a juicy, sweet harvest that is perfect for both fresh consumption and for making jams and preserves.

Sun: Full sun.
Water: Cherry trees thrive best with consistent watering, but they can withstand some dry periods.
Advantages: Early bloom, delicious fruit.
Disadvantages: Sensitive to frost in spring, may need extra protection.

5. Berry Bushes and Small Trees (e.g., Cloudberry, Raspberry, Lingonberry)

Although berries are not always classified as “trees,” berry bushes and small trees are an excellent choice for growing fruit in a Nordic garden. Berry bushes like raspberries, lingonberries, and blueberries thrive in our climate and are easy to care for, while also producing fantastic fruit for both fresh consumption and for preserves or jams. These bushes are also great for creating borders or as part of a bed.

Sun: Full sun to partial shade.
Water: Regular watering is necessary.
Advantages: Several types of berries, great for small gardens.
Disadvantages: May require support to grow well, especially raspberries.

6. Fig Tree (Ficus carica)

Fig trees are somewhat rarer in Nordic gardens but can thrive well in greenhouses or sheltered locations in southern Sweden. With the right care, fig trees can produce small but very sweet fruits that are a delicacy in the summer. Since fig trees are quite sensitive to cold, it's important that they are placed in a sheltered area, ideally against a wall that provides warmth and wind protection.

Sun: Full sun.
Water: Needs plenty of water during the growing season but does not like to stand in stagnant water.
Advantages: Beautiful fruit, attractive tree shape.
Disadvantages: Sensitive to frost, requires protection in winter.

7. Nectarines and Peaches (Prunus persica)

For those living in southern Sweden or in sheltered gardens, nectarines and peaches can also be an interesting option. These trees require a lot of sun and warmth to produce good fruit, but when they thrive, they yield juicy, sweet fruits that are both healthy and delicious. Since these trees do not tolerate severe frost, it's important to place them in a sheltered spot, preferably in a greenhouse or on a sunny wall.

Sun: Full sun.
Water: Regular watering and good drainage are necessary.
Advantages: Delicious fruit, high flavor.
Disadvantages: Sensitive to cold, requires special winter protection.

Care of Fruit Trees in Nordic Gardens

To ensure your fruit trees thrive and produce good fruit, it is important to give them proper care. Here are some general tips:

• Pruning: Pruning is important to keep the trees healthy and stimulate better fruit production. It should be done in winter or early spring, depending on the tree species.
• Watering: Most fruit trees like regular watering, especially during dry spells, but they don’t like to sit in stagnant water. Make sure the soil drains well.
• Soil: Ensure your trees are planted in well-drained soil with plenty of nutrients. Some trees, like blueberries, require acidic soil.
• Protection: During the winter months, some fruit trees may need extra protection against frost, especially if they are not completely hardy. Use winter covers or cover the tree with burlap.

Summary

Fruit trees are an excellent way to create a beautiful and productive garden in Nordic climates. Whether you want an apple tree for fresh fruit, a pear tree for juicy pears, or a plum tree for harvesting delicious fruit, there are plenty of options that work well in our climate. Just remember to give your trees the right care and protection so that you can enjoy your fruits for many years to come.