Kieffer Pear Tree

Pear trees thrive across a range of different climates and can handle colder temperatures better than many other fruit trees. “They also have high yields,” says Kevin Lenhart, design director and landscape architect at Yardzen. “If you’re a newbie and need a confidence boost, a pear tree can help you out.”

Depending on the size and variety of the pear tree, expect it to bear fruit between three to seven years of age. “You can hasten your harvest by buying a more mature one,” Lenhart adds. “Trees at nurseries are often one to two years old.” 

The Kieffer pear tree, in particular, can self-pollinate, so it’s great for beginners; however, you’ll see a more productive yield if you plant another variety nearby. 

• Growing Zones: 4 through 9
• Size: 12 to 20 feet tall
• Growing conditions: Full sun; moist, acidic, well-drained soil; water at least three times per week until established

Columnar Apple Tree

Columnar apple trees were bred to take up as little space as possible, so they’re an easy choice for beginners with small gardens. Also, because they stay compact, it’s easier to keep up with pruning and pest control. 

These trees may take between two to four years to produce fruit. And while some are self-fertilizing, ones like the Golden Sentinel will need another variety nearby to pollinate.

“Columnar apple trees can be successfully grown in pots outdoors, but they typically enjoy a certain number of ‘chill hours’ during the winter—so don’t try to grow them indoors,” says Anna Ohler, owner of Bright Lane Gardens.

“Homegrown apple production will continue year after year once a columnar apple tree has successfully established,” she adds. “These taste wonderful and can be harvested over the course of several weeks.”

• Growing Zones: 4 through 8
• Size: 8 to 12 feet tall
• Growing conditions: Full to partial sun; rich, well-draining soil; water regularly until roots are established

Chicago Hardy Fig Tree

Fig trees have great disease resistance, they self-pollinate, and they perform well in many different climates—particularly hotter ones. Once established, they’re quite drought tolerant, making them a great option for dry climates. 

Compared to other fruit trees, fig trees require very little pruning and tend to grow quickly. They also bear fruit after around three to five years of age. However, most figs won’t tolerate cold as well as other trees; people in chillier climates should do well with the Chicago Hardy variety. 

If you’re short on garden space, there are other options too. “Some fig varieties work well in containers, including the ‘Little Miss Figgy’ and ‘Celeste’ varieties,” adds Lenhart.

• Growing Zones: 5 through 10
• Size: 10 to 15 feet tall 
• Growing conditions: Full sun; well-drained, acidic soil; regular watering until established

​​Stanley Prune Plum Tree

The majority of plum tree varieties are hardy and adaptable in most regions. They’re also surprisingly low maintenance, requiring little pruning and shaping compared to other fruit trees. With steady growth, most plum tree varieties will set fruit after three years—some will take up to five. 

Some varieties, like the Stanley plum tree, are self-pollinating, making them an excellent choice for beginners. That being said, having two or more trees of any variety will make a big impact on overall fruit yield. 

It’s also a great tree for pollinators. “Butterflies and bees are drawn to the early blooms that expire before the tree begins to set fruit,” says Ohler. “It’s a beautiful and functional addition to any yard.”

• Growing Zones: 5 through 7
• Size: 18 to 20 feet tall
• Growing conditions: Full sun; well-drained, sandy or loamy soil; water regularly until established

Meyer Lemon Tree

Meyer Lemon trees are a top recommendation for indoor fruit trees. These compact and adaptable plants easily fit in large containers and can grow indoors year round—or they can be grown outside and brought back in during cold winters. 

When well cared for, most Meyer lemon trees will produce fruit after two years— possibly sooner if your tree was grafted from a mature mother plant, which is common practice at many nurseries. They are also self-pollinating, so you only need to have one to successfully set fruit. 

If you plan on growing Meyer lemon indoors, then place the tree in front of a south-facing window. During overcast winter months, when the days are short, an additional grow light will greatly benefit growth.

“Meyer lemons are known for their slightly sweet flavor, making them highly adaptable to use in different dishes or drink recipes,” says Ohler. “When kept indoors, the trees are very ornamental and can add charm to any room.”

• Growing Zones: 8 through 11 
• Size: 8 to 10 feet tall
• Growing conditions: Full, direct sunlight; well-drained, loamy soil; water deeply but not too frequently

Pakistan Mulberry Tree

There are many reasons why the Pakistan mulberry is great for beginners. It handles extreme heat and cold and is drought- and pest-resistant. It’s also self-pollinating, grows rapidly, and produces abundant fruit within two to three years. It’s often called the king of mulberries for its large fruit, which can reach up to 4 inches long. 

In addition, the Pakistan mulberry is great for creating shade for companion plants. “My three-year-old tree is already 18 to 20 feet tall and will produce dozens of pounds of fruit this year,” says Christopher Macy, founder of the Phoenix Food Forest Initiative.

• Growing Zones: 6 through 10
• Size: 20 to 25 feet tall
• Growing conditions: Full sun; well-drained, neutral soil; water deeply and consistently until established

American Elderberry

The American elderberry is native to most of the central and eastern parts of North America—as far north as Canada and as far south as Texas. Native plants are naturally lower maintenance and easier to care for, because they have adapted specifically to thrive in their climate and environment.

Elderberries are known for their disease resistance, making them a great option for beginners. They prefer moist soil and do very well in lower areas that tend to collect water—like in creeks or ditches or alongside ponds or rain gardens. While there are some self-pollinating elderberry varieties, it’s recommended to get two or more plants, which will encourage a good fruit set every year. 

“One additional benefit of growing elderberries is the stunning display of white flowers they have each spring,” says Ohler. “It really is beautiful.” 

• Growing Zones: 4 through 9
• Size: 5 to 12 feet tall 
• Growing conditions: Full sun to partial shade; loamy, acidic, well-drained soil; keep well-watered during the first growing season