Rosanne Loparco
| Utica Observer Dispatch
Tree fruits can be challenging to grow.
One frequent problem is why home fruit trees are not producing fruit. Here are potential causes and what you can do to correct the issues.
Tree vigor. This problem will cause trees to expend energy in growing wood versus producing flower buds. Improper tree vigor can be caused by too much pruning or over-fertilization. With trees grown in a fertilized lawn, rain can move the nitrogen in lawn fertilizer past the grass roots where the fruit tree takes it up.
Do not apply fertilizer to lawn grass within five feet of the spread of fruit tree branches. Heavy winter pruning can also stimulate excessive growth at the expense of flower buds. For more information and guidance on proper pruning, visit the Utah State University Extension at https://extension.usu.edu/yardandgarden/files/PruningHandout-OY-Feb2019.pdf.
Cold damage. Fruit tree flowers are extremely sensitive to frost. The damage may not be visible because flowers will open but can be unable to set fruit. If you suspect frost damage, wait until the next day and examine flowers; dark brown/black centers most likely won’t set fruit. Prevent this by planting trees in the most frost-free section of your yard; or select varieties that bloom later.
Poor pollination. Flowers have to be pollinated to form fruit consistently. Anything that interferes with bee activity can impact pollination. Understand the pollination needs of different fruits, i.e., apples or pears must be cross-pollinated, meaning you need to plant two different varieties.
Cornell’s Food Growing website can help you; download Cornell’s Fruit Tree Growing Guide: https://gardening.cals.cornell.edu/garden-guidance/foodgarden/#Growing%20Fruit.
Consider investing in a good fruit growing book.
In addition to Cornell’s guide, visit Purdue University Extension at https://extension.purdue.edu/county/vigo/fruit-production-resources.html. If you’re faced with problems, don’t give up; give us a call or send us your questions via email. Just be patient and before you know it, you will be enjoying your own fresh fruit.
Cornell Cooperative Extension Oneida County answers home and garden questions which can be emailed to homeandgarden@cornell.edu or call 315-736-3394, press 1 and ext. 333. Leave your question, name and phone number. Questions are answered; weekdays; 8am to 4pm. Also, visit our website at http://cceoneida.com/ or phone 315-736-3394, press 1 and then ext.100.