Ontario winters are no doubt harsh and unpredictable, with temperatures that can plummet far below freezing point for several months. For gardeners and farmers alike, this can be quite a challenge when it comes to planting and maintaining fruit trees. However, there are still fruit trees that can thrive and remain healthy even in the most severe winter conditions.
The following is a comprehensive list of fruit tree species that can withstand and survive the unpredictability of Ontario winters.
Crabapple Trees
Crabapples are known for their hardiness and ability to adapt to extreme temperatures. They are cold-hardy and can survive even during the chilliest of winters. Crabapple trees produce beautiful blossoms in the Spring and fruit that can range in size and color. They are also a low maintenance fruit tree species, making them an ideal choice for beginners.
Cherry Trees
These fruit trees are also hardy and can handle the Ontario winter. They produce juicy, red fruit in the summer and have blossoms that make them a beautiful addition to any garden. Rainier and Bing cherries are the most popular cherry tree varieties in Ontario; however, tart cherries are also grown and are known for their health benefits. Cherry trees require at least six hours of direct sunlight a day, making them more suitable for locations that get plenty of sunlight.
Peach Trees
While peach trees can flourish in the Ontario winter, they are more susceptible to disease, especially if they are not cared for properly. Blossom blight and peach leaf curl are two common diseases that can attack peach trees in Ontario. To prevent this, prune the tree during the dormant season, which is typically in the winter. Peach trees thrive in full sunlight and well-drained soil.
Plum Trees
Plum trees not only survive but also thrive in Ontario’s cold climate. They are disease-resistant and can withstand even the coldest winter conditions. Japanese plums are the most popular plum variety grown in Ontario, with a variety of colors available. Plum trees produce sweet and juicy fruit that is great for canning, baking, or eating fresh. They also produce beautiful flowers in the spring and require full sun or partial shade and well-drained soil.
Pear Trees
Pear trees are another fruit tree species that can thrive in the Ontario winter. They require less maintenance than other fruit trees and are disease-resistant, making it less challenging for them to survive through the winter. Pears are one of the first fruits to ripen in the summer, providing you with a sweet and juicy treat when the weather warms up. They require well-drained soil and at least six hours of sunlight a day.
Apple Trees
Apple trees are the most commonly grown fruit trees in orchards throughout Canada, and they are no doubt hardy enough to withstand harsh winter conditions in Ontario. Apples ripen in the fall, typically in late August or early September, and they require well-drained soil and plenty of sunlight to thrive. McIntosh, Honeycrisp, and Red Delicious are just a few of the apple varieties that are grown in Ontario orchards.
In conclusion, even though the Ontario winter can be brutal, growing fruit trees is still achievable if you pick the right plant species. The above mentioned fruit trees have all shown to be resilient to the frigid winter months and can still produce a hearty crop of fruit. It is crucial to care for the trees throughout the year, taking care to prune and maintain them to prevent diseases and pests from claiming them. If you are looking to add fruit trees to your garden or orchard, consider planting the hardier species mentioned above to increase your chances of thriving trees. By doing so, you can rest assured that even in the coldest of winter months, your fruit trees will remain healthy and provide you with delicious fruit for years to come.