You Wanna Grow Your Own Orchard in Colorado Springs? You're Not Bananas (But You Could Grow Some!)
So you're itching to turn your backyard into a mini-paradise, complete with homegrown fruit trees. But hold on to your Stetson, Colorado Springs! This ain't exactly the tropics. Don't worry though, you can still cultivate a backyard bounty, as long as you choose the right fighters for our unique climate.
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| What Fruit Trees Grow In Colorado Springs |
Buckle Up, Buttercup: Colorado's Climate is a Wild Ride
Colorado Springs throws weather curveballs like a pro. We've got bone-chilling winters, scorching summers, and enough wind to test a windmill's resolve. The good news? There are some pretty tough fruit trees out there that can handle the ride.
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Here's the lowdown:
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- Winter Warriors: We're talking apples, pears, plums, and tart cherries. These champs can withstand the sub-zero nights like nobody's business.
- Fairweather Friends: Peaches and nectarines? They're a bit more delicate. They'll need a sheltered spot to avoid getting their fuzzy behinds whipped by the harsh winds.
Remember: Mother Nature's a fickle friend, so always check the specific chill hours (fancy term for how long a tree needs cold weather) for your chosen variety.
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Picking the Perfect Posse: Choosing Your Fruit Tree Fighters
Now that you know the basic brawl, it's time to pick your champions. Here are some all-stars for the Colorado Springs climate:
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- Apple: Honeycrisp, Fuji, Gala - Crunchy, sweet, and perfect for pies (or just eating straight off the branch, we won't judge).
- Pear: Bartlett, Summercrisp - These juicy guys are fantastic for eating fresh or canning.
- Plum: Santa Rosa, Pipestone - Sweet and tart options to tantalize your taste buds.
- Tart Cherry: Montmorency - Perfect for making jams, pies, or just popping in your mouth for a pucker-inducing good time.
- Peach (with a bit of pampering): Reliance, Contender - These delicate darlings will need some protection from the wind, but the reward is worth it - juicy, delicious peaches!
Pro Tip: Some trees, like apples and pears, need a buddy for pollination (think fruit tree prom). So, plant two different varieties that bloom at the same time to get the party started.
How to Become a Backyard Fruit Baron (or Baroness)
Alright, you've got your brawlers picked out, now what? Here's a crash course in becoming a backyard fruit baron (or baroness, no discrimination here).
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- Pick Your Plot: Sunshine is key! Aim for at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day.
- Get Digging: Loosen up that soil and make sure it drains well. Fruit trees don't like soggy feet.
- Planting Power: Follow the instructions for your specific tree, but generally, you want the graft union (the bumpy bit where the top was joined to the rootstock) a couple inches above the soil line.
- Watering Wisdom: Water deeply and regularly, especially in the first year. But don't drown your new friend!
- Pruning Power: A little snip here and there will encourage healthy growth and fruit production.
Remember: Patience is a fruit tree's best friend. It might take a few years before you're harvesting basketfuls of goodies, but the wait is totally worth it.
FAQ: You Got Questions, We Got Answers (Quick!)
How to keep my fruit trees safe from critters? Well, birds and squirrels might see your bounty as a free buffet. Netting or fencing can help deter these furry (or feathered) fiends.
How do I know when my fruit is ripe? The color is a good indicator, but also give it a gentle squeeze. If it yields slightly, it's probably ready for picking.
How to care for my fruit trees in winter? Once your trees are established, they won't need much winter protection. For young trees, you can add a layer of mulch around the base to help insulate the roots.
How often should I fertilize my fruit trees? Generally, young trees will benefit from a light feeding in the spring. As your tree matures, you may not need to fertilize as often. A soil test can help determine your tree's specific needs.
How do I deal with fruit tree diseases?
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