7 Self-Pollinating Fruit Trees for the Easiest Harvest

Plums on plum tree. — Credit:
Getty Images

When choosing a fruit tree for your yard, one of the most important things to consider is whether the tree is self-pollinating or cross-pollinating. Cross-pollinating trees need a neighboring fruit tree to set fruit. If you don't have space in your yard for two trees or don't want to double up on species, consider choosing self-pollinating varieties.

These trees can produce fruit without needing pollen from another tree of the same species, making them perfect for beginner gardeners and small spaces. Self-fertilizing trees require minimal maintenance and come in various flavor profiles, from sweet to citrusy. Ahead, fruit tree growers share their favorite self-pollinating fruit trees to grow in the garden.

Seth Yentes, co-owner of North Branch Farm and a longtime fruit grower in mid-coast Maine, whose fruit trees can be found at Fedco Seeds
David Fried, co-owner of Elmore Roots, a fruit tree nursery in Vermont

01 of 07

Garfield Plantation Pie Cherry

Garfield Cherry Tree — Credit:
Anna Shapley-Quinn, North Branch Farm Co-Owner

This cold-hardy, semi-dwarf tree is tart and flavorful. "The Garfield Plantation Pie Cherry tree is the most productive cherry tree we have ever grown," says Seth Yentes, co-owner of North Branch Farm. In spring, the tree produces clusters of showy white flowers with five petals, followed by bright red fruit that can be enjoyed fresh or baked in a pie. "The advantage of a self-pollinating fruit tree is that it does not need a second variety for pollination," Yentes says, making this tree a low-maintenance, flavorful addition to any garden.

Zones: 3 to 8
Size: 15 feet tall x 12 feet wide
Care requirements: Full sun; well-draining soil rich in organic matter

02 of 07

Lars Anderson Peach

While not all varieties of peach trees are self-pollinating, most are. "One of our favorite types of peach trees is Lars Anderson, a variety introduced by Fedco Trees," says Yentes. "It's a freestone variety with dark yellow-orange flesh and everything you would want in a peach: flavor, sweetness, and perfectly juicy flesh." Lars Anderson is also cold-hardy and an abundant producer.

Zones: 5 to 8
Size: 10 to 15 feet tall x 12 to 15 feet wide
Care requirements: Full sun; well-draining soil rich in organic matter

Contact your local nursery to find a self-pollinating peach variety that is well-suited for your area.

03 of 07

Plum

Plum trees are capable of self-pollination, but they yield better fruit when a second variety is planted nearby for pollination, says Yentes. As deciduous trees, they lose their leaves each year. The fruit is delicious when eaten fresh and can also be dried or canned for later use. In the spring, plum trees produce showy white flowers, which are followed by purple-hued fruit.

Zone: 5 to 9
Size: 15 to 20 feet tall x 15 to 20 feet wide (Dwarf varieties: 8 to 10 feet tall x 8 to 10 feet wide)
Care requirements: Full sun; well-draining soil rich in organic matter

04 of 07

Mulberry tree

Mulberries are deciduous trees or shrubs recognized for their prolific fruit production and low maintenance requirements. "Mulberries are like having blackberries on a tree, but without the seeds or thorns," says David Fried, co-owner of Elmore Roots. These trees thrive in full sun but can grow well in partial shade. Their leaves are dark green in the summer, turning yellow or lime green in the fall. You can enjoy the fruit freshly picked from the tree or use it dried, in jams, or sauces.

Zones: 3 to 6
Size: 10 to 50 feet tall x 10 to 40 feet wide
Care requirements: Full sun; well-draining soil rich in organic matter

05 of 07

Bali Cherry

Bali cherry trees feature smooth, dark red bark, lush green leaves, and fragrant, striking white flowers that bloom in the spring. According to Fried, tart red cherries blanket the tree in July. These cherries are sweeter than other varieties, making them ideal for eating fresh or using in baked goods like pies. This tree is an excellent choice for those looking to attract songbirds and enhance the visual appeal of their landscape.

Zones: 3 to 5
Size: 10 to 12 feet x 10 to 12 feet wide
Care requirements: Full sun; well-draining soil rich in organic matter

06 of 07

Citrus Trees

Lemon Tree With Lemons — Lemons on a Tree. Credit: Clive Nichols/Getty Images

Lemons, key limes, and grapefruit are examples of self-fertile citrus varieties. These subtropical trees are known for their glossy leaves, fragrant flowers, and delicious fruit, making them a great addition to gardens in warmer climates. In colder regions, dwarf varieties like the Meyer lemon can be grown in containers indoors or on your patio during the warmer months.

Zones: 9 to 11
Size: 20 to 25 feet tall x 15 to 20 feet wide (Dwarf varieties: 6 to 10 feet tall x 3 to 5 feet wide)
Care requirements: Full sun; well-draining soil rich in organic matter

To assist citrus trees with pollination, gently shake the tree when the flowers are open. This will help distribute the pollen more effectively.

07 of 07

Fig Trees

The fig tree is a deciduous tree belonging to the mulberry family. It is renowned for its sweet, soft, pear-shaped fruit. Its bark is smooth and gray, and it features large, palmate leaves that create a wide, low canopy. Fig trees typically thrive in USDA hardiness zones 7 to 10, but they can also be grown in zones 5 and 6 with proper winter protection.

Zones: 7 to 10
Size: 20 to 25 feet tall x 15 to 20 feet wide (Dwarf varieties: 6 to
10 feet tall x 3 to 5 feet wide)
Care requirements: Full sun; well-draining soil rich in organic matter

For growing figs in colder climates, opt for varieties like Chicago Hardy, Brown Turkey, and Celeste.