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Growing fruit trees in your backyard can be a fun and rewarding project. It lets you enjoy fresh, homegrown fruit right outside your door. Many people think fruit trees take a long time to produce, but that’s not always true.
Some fruit trees grow quickly and start bearing fruit in just a few years. We’ll look at 20 fast-growing fruit trees that can thrive in backyard gardens. These trees can give you tasty fruit without waiting decades. Whether you want apples, cherries, or more exotic fruits, there’s likely a fast-growing option for your yard.
1. Apple Tree
Apple trees are a popular choice for backyard orchards. They grow quickly and can produce fruit within a few years of planting. Some varieties like Granny Smith can bear fruit in their first year. This makes them an exciting option for impatient gardeners.
Apple trees typically grow 12-24 inches per year. With proper care, they can reach heights of 20-30 feet at maturity.
We recommend dwarf or semi-dwarf varieties for easier maintenance and harvesting. These smaller trees still produce plenty of apples for a family.
Apple trees need full sun and well-draining soil to thrive. Regular pruning helps maintain their shape and encourages fruit production. With the right care, apple trees can provide delicious homegrown fruit for many years to come.
2. Cherry Tree
Cherry trees are fast-growing fruit trees that can add beauty and delicious fruit to your backyard. These trees typically reach maturity in 3 to 5 years, making them a great choice for impatient gardeners.
Cherry trees come in two main types: sweet and sour. Sweet cherries are perfect for eating fresh, while sour cherries are ideal for baking and cooking.
We recommend planting cherry trees in full sun and well-drained soil. They thrive in zones 4-7 and can grow up to 35 feet tall. Regular pruning helps maintain their shape and size.
Cherry trees are not only fast-growing but also provide a stunning spring display with their beautiful blossoms. The fruit usually ripens in early to mid-summer, depending on the variety.
For best results, plant at least two cherry trees to ensure proper pollination. This will help maximize your fruit yield and enjoy a bountiful harvest.
3. Peach Tree
Peach trees are a fantastic choice for backyard orchards. These fast-growing fruit trees can start producing delicious peaches in as little as one to three years after planting.
We love the Harvester peach variety for its quick fruit production. It’s a dwarf tree that can bear sweet, juicy peaches in its first year. This makes it perfect for gardeners eager to enjoy homegrown fruit quickly.
Peach trees grow rapidly, often adding 12-24 inches of height each year. With proper care, they can reach full size in just a few growing seasons.
To get the best results, we recommend planting peach trees in full sun. They prefer well-draining soil and regular watering. Pruning is important to maintain tree health and encourage fruit production.
4. Plum Tree
Plum trees are a great choice for backyard orchards. They grow fast and can start producing fruit in just 3-5 years. Plum trees come in different varieties. Some popular ones are ‘Victoria’ and ‘Opal’. These trees can reach heights of 20-30 feet when fully grown.
For the best fruit production, plant plum trees in full sun. They need 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day. The type of rootstock used affects how big the tree will get. Plums grown on Brompton rootstock will be larger than those on dwarfing rootstock like VVA-1.
Plum trees are adaptable to various climates. They can thrive in many parts of the U.S., making them a versatile option for home gardeners.
5. Pear Tree
Pear trees are a great choice for backyard orchards. They grow quickly and can produce fruit within a few years of planting. Some pear varieties, like the Beurre Bosc, may even bear fruit in their first year. This makes them an exciting option for impatient gardeners.
Pear trees can grow 15-20 feet tall. They thrive in full sun and well-draining soil. Regular pruning helps maintain their shape and size. We recommend planting pear trees in spring or fall.
They need consistent watering, especially when young. As they mature, pear trees become more drought-tolerant. With proper care, pear trees can provide delicious fruit for many years. Their beautiful spring blossoms are a bonus, making them a lovely addition to any garden.
6. Orange Tree
Orange trees are a popular choice for backyard orchards. They can start producing fruit within 3 to 5 years of planting. These citrus trees thrive in warm, sunny climates. They prefer well-draining soil and regular watering.
Orange trees can grow up to 20 feet tall. Some dwarf varieties stay smaller, making them great for smaller spaces. We love orange trees for their fragrant blossoms and juicy fruit. They also provide nice shade in the yard.
With proper care, an orange tree can produce fruit for many years. Regular pruning and fertilizing help keep the tree healthy and productive. Orange trees are relatively low-maintenance once established. They’re a great option for both new and experienced gardeners.
7. Lemon Tree
Lemon trees are popular fast-growing fruit trees that can produce fruit quickly. Some varieties can bear lemons in their first year after planting. The Variegated Pink Eureka lemon tree is known for its speedy fruit production. It can yield juicy, pink lemons within just a year of planting.
Lemon trees thrive in warm climates and need plenty of sunlight. They grow well in zones 9-11 but can also be grown in pots in colder areas.
We recommend planting lemon trees in well-draining soil and watering them regularly. With proper care, these trees can provide a bountiful harvest of tart, refreshing lemons for years to come.
8. Fig Tree
Fig trees are a great choice for backyard fruit growers. They grow quickly and can produce sweet, delicious fruit in just a few years. We love fig trees because they’re easy to care for. They thrive in areas with long, hot summers and can be grown in pots or directly in the ground.
One of the best things about fig trees is that they don’t need pollination to bear fruit. This makes them perfect for small gardens or urban spaces. Fig trees are also known for their attractive foliage. Their large, deep green leaves add beauty to any landscape.
To grow a healthy fig tree, we recommend planting it in a sunny spot with well-draining soil. Regular watering and pruning will help it grow strong and produce lots of fruit.
9. Apricot Tree
Apricot trees are a fantastic choice for backyard orchards. They grow quickly and can start bearing fruit within 2-5 years of planting. Some apricot varieties can even produce fruit in their first year. The Blenheim apricot is known for its sweet, juicy fruits and can bear fruit shortly after planting.
Apricot trees can grow up to 24 inches per year, making them one of the fastest-growing fruit trees. They thrive in zones 5-8 and need full sun exposure. These trees are relatively low-maintenance and drought-tolerant once established.
They produce beautiful spring blossoms before fruiting. We recommend choosing a grafted apricot tree for faster fruit production. With proper care, you’ll enjoy fresh, homegrown apricots in no time.
10. Pomegranate Tree
Pomegranate trees are fast-growing fruit trees that can add beauty and bounty to our backyards. These trees thrive in warm climates and can reach heights of 10 to 20 feet. We love pomegranate trees for their bright red fruits and attractive foliage. They grow quickly, often producing fruit within the first year of planting.
Pomegranates prefer full sun and well-draining soil. We recommend planting them in spring or fall for the best results. These trees are relatively low-maintenance. They need regular watering when young but become drought-tolerant once established.
Pomegranate fruits are packed with antioxidants and have a unique, sweet-tart flavor. We can enjoy them fresh or use them in various recipes. Some popular varieties include ‘Wonderful’, ‘Parfianka’, and ‘Ariana’. These cultivars offer different fruit sizes and flavor profiles to suit our preferences.
11. Persimmon Tree
Persimmon trees can be a wonderful addition to your backyard orchard. These beautiful trees produce sweet, flavorful fruit and add visual interest to the landscape. While not the fastest-growing fruit trees, persimmons still grow at a moderate rate of 1-2 feet per year. American persimmon varieties tend to grow slightly quicker than their Asian counterparts.
Persimmons thrive in full sun, needing at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. This helps with fruit production and overall tree health. A mature persimmon tree can reach heights of 35-60 feet, depending on the variety. However, you can easily maintain them at a more manageable 12-20 feet tall through pruning.
We love persimmons for their beautiful fall foliage and the vibrant orange fruits that persist on the branches after the leaves drop. They’re a unique and attractive option for any home orchard.
12. Avocado Tree
Avocado trees can be fast-growing and productive additions to your backyard orchard. Some varieties like Hass can bear fruit within the first year of planting. Avocado trees thrive in warm climates and prefer full sun exposure. They need well-draining soil and regular watering to establish strong roots.
These trees require minimal pruning, mostly to remove damaged branches in the first few growing seasons. Spring is the best time for any necessary pruning. While avocados can grow indoors, they’re unlikely to produce fruit in these conditions.
For the best results, plant them outside in USDA zones 9-11. Avocado trees come in different varieties, each with unique flavors and growth habits. The Hass avocado is popular for its nutty taste and long shelf life.
13. Papaya Tree
Papaya trees are fast-growing tropical fruit trees that can reach heights of 20-30 feet. They grow quickly and can produce fruit within the first year of planting. Papayas thrive in warm, humid climates and do best in USDA zones 9-11. They need full sun and well-draining soil to flourish.
We recommend planting papaya seeds directly in their permanent location. The trees have shallow roots and don’t transplant well. Plant several seeds per hole to ensure at least one viable tree.
Water papaya trees regularly but allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Mulch around the base to retain moisture, keeping it away from the trunk.
Fertilize papaya trees every 3-4 months with a balanced fertilizer. This helps support their rapid growth and fruit production. Papayas can grow up to an inch per day under ideal conditions. With proper care, you’ll enjoy fresh, homegrown papayas in no time.
14. Nectarine Tree
Nectarine trees are a fast-growing option for backyard orchards. We can expect these trees to start bearing fruit within 2 to 3 years of planting. Nectarines thrive in full sunlight, needing at least 6 hours of direct sun each day. They prefer well-draining soil and warm climates.
Planting is best done in late winter or early spring. We recommend digging a hole twice as wide as the root ball but keeping the same depth. Mulching around the base of the tree helps retain moisture and regulate soil temperature. It’s important to keep the mulch a few inches away from the trunk.
Regular pruning and proper care can lead to a bountiful harvest of sweet, smooth-skinned fruits. With the right conditions, nectarine trees can be a rewarding addition to any home garden.
15. Banana Tree
Banana trees are a fantastic choice for fast-growing fruit in warm climates. These tropical plants can grow up to 2 feet per month, reaching their full height in just 9 to 12 months. Most banana trees produce fruit within 10 to 15 months of planting. They thrive in full sun and need plenty of water and nutrients to support their rapid growth.
The ‘Dwarf Cavendish‘ variety is popular for home gardens. It grows 8 to 10 feet tall and produces sweet, creamy bananas. For colder areas, the ‘Ice Cream’ banana tree is more cold-hardy.
Banana trees are not trees, but large herbaceous plants. They grow from a rhizome, producing new shoots called suckers. This allows them to spread and create a cluster of banana plants over time.
16. Mango Tree
Mango trees are fast-growing fruit trees that thrive in warm climates. They can reach heights of 20-30 feet and provide delicious tropical fruit. These trees grow best in zones 9-11 and can bear fruit within 3-5 years of planting. Mango trees prefer full sun and well-draining soil.
We recommend watering deeply but allowing the top few inches of soil to dry between waterings. This helps establish strong roots.
Mango trees can be sensitive to cold. Young trees may be damaged at temperatures below 30°F. Mature trees can handle brief periods down to 25°F but may lose leaves. For smaller spaces, consider dwarf varieties like the ‘Ice Cream’ mango. These compact trees are perfect for backyards or even large containers.
17. Guava Tree
Guava trees are fast-growing fruit bearers that can thrive in many backyards. These tropical plants produce sweet, fragrant fruits packed with vitamin C. Guava trees need full sun and well-drained soil to flourish. We recommend planting them 10-16 feet apart to give them enough space to grow.
The trees reach heights of 6-20 feet with dense, rounded canopies. Their mottled greenish bark and long serrated leaves add visual interest to the landscape.
Guava fruits come in different shapes – round, oval, or pear-like. The thin skin turns from green to yellow when ripe, revealing juicy pink flesh inside. We can grow guava trees outdoors in warm climates or partially indoors in cooler areas. With proper care, these trees will provide tasty fruits and attractive foliage for years to come.
18. Kiwi Tree
Kiwi trees are fast-growing vines that can add a unique touch to any backyard. These plants can grow up to 20 feet long and 15 feet wide, producing delicious fruit within a few years. Kiwi vines thrive in well-draining soil with a slightly acidic pH between 5.5 and 7.5. We recommend testing your soil and adjusting it if needed before planting.
A sturdy trellis or pergola is essential for supporting the vigorous growth of kiwi vines. These plants can produce up to 100 pounds of fruit, so a strong support system is crucial. Kiwi trees prefer full sun exposure and consistent watering.
Mulching around the base helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. With proper care, kiwi vines can be a prolific addition to your backyard orchard. Their fast growth and abundant fruit production make them an exciting choice for fruit enthusiasts.
19. Mulberry Tree
Mulberry trees are fast-growing fruit trees that can add beauty and tasty berries to your backyard. These trees grow quickly, often reaching 30-50 feet tall within a few years. Mulberries come in different varieties, including red, white, and black. The berries resemble blackberries and have a sweet flavor that many people enjoy.
We recommend planting mulberry trees in full sun to partial shade. They adapt well to various soil types but prefer well-draining, slightly acidic to neutral soil.
Mulberry trees are low-maintenance and drought-tolerant once established. They produce fruit within 2-3 years of planting, making them a great choice for impatient gardeners.
Be aware that mulberry fruits can stain surfaces, so avoid planting near walkways or patios. With proper care, these fast-growing trees will provide delicious berries for years to come.
20. Olive Tree
Olive trees are a great addition to backyards in warm climates. They grow well in areas with hot, dry summers and mild winters. These trees need full sun and well-drained soil to thrive. Olive trees can reach 20-30 feet tall when mature. They have silvery-green leaves that add a beautiful texture to landscapes. Many varieties produce edible olives.
Popular olive tree types for backyards include Arbequina, Kalamata, and Picholine. These varieties are known for their fruit quality and adaptability to different growing conditions.
While not the fastest-growing fruit trees, olives can add about 6-8 inches of height per year. With proper care, they can live for centuries and become stunning focal points in gardens.
We recommend planting olive trees in USDA zones 8-11 for best results. They need a period of cool weather to produce fruit, but can’t tolerate prolonged freezing temperatures.
Choosing the Right Fruit Tree for Your Backyard
Picking the perfect fruit tree takes some careful thought. We’ll look at key factors like climate, soil, sunlight, and space to help you select the best tree for your yard.
Climate Considerations
Your local climate plays a big role in which fruit trees will thrive. Check your USDA plant hardiness zone to see what trees can handle your winter cold. Some trees need a certain number of cold hours to produce fruit.
Apple trees grow well in many areas. They can handle colder winters in zones 3-8. Citrus trees like lemons and oranges need warmer spots in zones 8-11. For hot climates, try mangoes or dragon fruit.
Don’t forget to think about summer heat and humidity too. Some fruit trees struggle in very hot or dry places. Others, like figs, love the heat.
Soil and Sunlight Requirements
Most fruit trees need full sun – at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. Check your yard for sunny spots before you buy.
Good soil drainage is a must. Fruit trees hate wet feet. If you have clay soil, mix in some compost to improve drainage. Sandy soil may need extra organic matter to hold water.
Test your soil pH. Most fruit trees like slightly acidic soil between 6.0 and 6.5. You can add lime to raise pH or sulfur to lower it if needed.
Tree Size and Space Constraints
Think about how big your tree will get. Standard apple trees can grow 30 feet tall. Dwarf varieties stay under 10 feet. Measure the space you have. Remember trees need room to spread out too. Leave enough space between trees and away from buildings.
For small yards, look for dwarf or semi-dwarf trees. These take up less room but still give lots of fruit. You can also try espaliered trees trained to grow flat against a wall or fence. Some fruits come in columnar varieties perfect for tight spaces or containers. These grow tall but stay very narrow.
Planting and Care Tips for Fruit Trees
Proper planting and care are key to growing healthy, productive fruit trees. Let’s look at the best practices for getting your trees off to a strong start and keeping them thriving.
Best Time to Plant
Fall is often the ideal time to plant fruit trees. The cooler weather puts less stress on young trees as they get established. Spring is the next best option if you miss the fall window.
Avoid planting in summer when it’s hot and dry. Winter planting works in mild climates but can be risky in areas with harsh winters.
Always plant on a cool, overcast day if possible. This helps reduce transplant shock. Water new trees well right after planting.
Watering and Fertilization
New fruit trees need regular watering, especially in their first year. We aim to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
Water deeply once or twice a week rather than giving frequent shallow waterings. This encourages deeper root growth. Mulch around the base of trees to help retain moisture.
Young trees benefit from fertilizer starting in their second year. Use a balanced fruit tree fertilizer in spring before new growth begins.
Avoid over-fertilizing, which can lead to lots of leaves but little fruit. Follow package directions for amounts based on tree size and age.
Pruning and Maintenance
Proper pruning is vital for fruit tree health and production. Prune in late winter while trees are still dormant. Remove any dead, diseased, or crossing branches first. Then focus on shaping the tree and opening up the canopy to let in light and air.
Don’t remove more than 25% of live growth in one year. This can stress the tree. Keep an eye out for pests and diseases.
Catching problems early makes them easier to treat. Remove any fallen fruit and leaves to reduce disease issues. Thin fruit clusters when they’re small. This leads to bigger, better-quality fruit at harvest time.
