Harvest multiple kinds of fruit from this amazing tree.
And for those withlimited growing space, fruit salad trees can be as practical as they are intriguing.
In other words, different stone fruits (Prunusspp.)
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cannot be grafted onto a single tree with citruses (Citrusspp.)
because they aren’t closely related enough.
But related fruits such as cherries, apricots, plums, and nectarines can be grafted together.
Similarly, mandarins, oranges, kumquats, and grapefruit can be grafted together.
Typically, this key in of fruit salad tree can be grown in USDA Zones 5-9.
This tree is hardy in Zones 9-11.
Multi apple:A variety ofapplescan be grown on this tree including red, green, and yellow apples.
Usually, apple trees grow best in Zones 4-7.
Multi nashi:Several varieties ofAsian pearscan be produced from this punch in of fruit salad tree.
Grow this tree in Zones 5-9, depending on the varieties of Asian pear grafted on the tree.
Conversely, evergreen fruit trees like citruses can be planted orrepotted at any time of the year.
However, transplanting citrus while they are flowering can lead to flower drop and reduced fruit production.
Overly clay soils can lead to water stagnation and eventual root rot.
Rocky soils can restrict root growth and become too dry.
whileZones 9-11are best for growing citrus.
Avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Some fruit types will grow faster than others and should be trimmed accordingly.
It is always a good idea to research the individual cultivars after purchasing and be prepared for annual pruning.
Care should be taken to never cut grafts back to the rootstock or risk losing them entirely.
As with all edible plants, it’s best to use organic pesticides.
Use of nonorganic sprays should be used with extreme care.
Many fruit trees need to be cross-pollinated by a select group of cultivars for proper pollination.
Ask your vendor for a list of preferred pollinators.
Citrus, however, do not go through a dormancy period and can be grown indoors over the winter.
Under ideal conditions, fruit salad trees can grow and produce fruit for many, many years.
That said, over time some grafts may begin to fail and cease to grow.
Losing grafts is the most common due to a lack of pruning or overly aggressive pruning.
Speak with your local nurseries in late summer to order your trees if they are otherwise not in stock.
