Our back yard has 2 play areas, one for the kids which is close to the house, and one for the dog that's further back from the house. The back back yard has no trees or shade, and I will be planting some trees. I am not necessarily looking for instant shade, because we'll be building Cosmo (the dog) a roofed structure with no walls (out of salvaged materials) so I don't need instant shade, but I would still like some trees back there.

I would really like fruit trees, but I'd like to know how many years from the time I plant will it take for the tree to bear fruit. Also - any thoughts pros/cons on planting fruit trees? Any fruit trees easier than other? I can't do apples because Devin can't eat them (allergies) but most every other fruit is fine. In our area peach trees and pear trees grow well, but I'm thinking I'd like to try other things. I think I have about enough room to plant 3 good sized trees back there. I don't want an orchard, because that's where the kids run and kick balls with Cosmo, I need to keep running room.

Tia!

I don't know but wanted to tell my story.
Our neighbors have fruit trees that line one side of our property.
They don't pick them so I considered picking some pears until I realized they sprayed their yard with chemical fertilizer and chemical weed control. So keep in mind if you have close neighbors who spray, it can seep into your dirt and up into your trees and their fruit.

Good thing to know.... I don't think in my case that's a real problem though. Thanks!

is usually just a piece or two that first fruiting season!

Subsequent years will be more of a harvest.

I read once in Mother Earth News that apples (not for you, I know), pears, and sour cherries are easiest, so that's what I've planted so far. The apple and cherry trees had decent-sized crops last year. The pear tree has not had any fruit so far, but I think we might get a bit this year. Now I'm ready to try peaches, apricots, plums, sweet cherries..............
I have dwarf and semi-dwarf trees because that way I can fit more different kinds in my not-so-big orchard.


I love your sig pic, Delpha!

I think we are going to plant peaches (they do really well in my area, pears (cuz I love 'em) and cherries (because Devin begged for them. I'm going to do 3 this year (unless I need more for pollination?) and evaluate the space next year. I like having that open backyard area, because we run and kick the ball and Cosmo (the collie) likes to run and chase it, and I don't want to totally kill our space.

Thea - thanks for the compliment on my new sig pic - Logan's all about dressing up these days and I'm totally LOVIN' IT! Of course you know how much I love your sig pic. It is precious - One day I'll get one with Cosmo in mine. Sigh....if he'd only sit still long enough!