The first key to a successful harvest of nut and fruit trees for Baytown is to select the right varieties for the subtropical climate in the area. It is necessary to know the chilling requirements of the species you want to plant to be sure you can use them in Baytown. In this article, we will talk about fruit and nut trees that are most successfully grown in this area.
Keep reading to find out more about fruit and nut trees for Baytown, their characteristics, and how to care for them.
Nut and Fruit Trees for Baytown – Popular Planting Choices
1. Apples
The apple tree is probably one of the most popular and successfully cultivated fruit trees for Baytown. There are more than 2,500 different varieties of apple trees in North America today, and some of the most popular are red delicious and granny smith. Long storage life and healthy nutrients that apple trees carry are the reason why it is considered as one of the best fruit trees for Houston area.
At maturity, apples usually grow to about 25 feet in height. There are some dwarf varieties that grow to a height of 15 feet. At least six hours of direct sunlight is necessary for healthy development. Well-drained, moist, and acidic soil is preferred, as well as regular irrigation. Tree services Baytown recommend planting apple trees, especially if you are a new gardener.
2. Grapefruit
Grapefruit is a citrus fruit known to be a good source of vitamin C, like lemons and oranges. It has very dense foliage, with dark and shiny green leaves without plant hairs. White and large flowers are also very attractive and they could bloom in clusters or singly. The size of the fruit will vary in different growing conditions.
It can reach about 20 feet in height at maturity. Sandy, relatively fertile soils are a must if you expect the best quality fruit. In addition, full sun exposure is necessary for the healthy development of roots and fruit. Grapefruit is, without a doubt, one of the best citrus trees for Houston area.
3. Orange
Orange is a tree that produces tasty and healthy fruit but is also a great addition to your landscape. They bring brilliant scent and color to a landscape, and their fruit and flowers just further increase the value of this tree. In addition, maintaining orange trees for Houston area is relatively easy, so almost every tree service Texas recommends it for new gardeners. The only downside to orange trees is that they are usually susceptible to damage in cold weather. However, you will move the plant inside when the weather is not optimal.
Light is very important for oranges. Make sure you provide at least 6 hours of direct day sunlight for it to develop successfully. Humid environments are also preferred, so make sure that the soil is always wet, but don’t overdo it.
4. Pecan
Pecan trees have oval or rounded wide-spreading crowns of branches that extend far down the massive trunk. Straight trunk and compact, pyramidal crowns are unique characteristics of this tree. Thus, pecan is one of the most popular nut trees for Baytown, but also in the whole state. It takes about 6 years for the tree to start producing nuts. There are a lot of sweet nuts that continue to grow regardless of age.
Related Post: Texas State Tree
Once pecan is fully developed, it can grow up to 100 feet in height. Six hours of direct day sunlight is a must for the roots to establish and start thriving. In addition, loamy, alkaline, sandy, well-drained, and clay soils are preferred for proper functioning.
Related Posts: Types Of Pecans In Texas & Pecan Tree Diseases
5. Black Walnut
Black walnut is another one of the nut trees for Baytown that will grow really tall and produce rich-flavored nuts for you. Low branches and open crown are the main characteristics both in forests and plantations. Regular pruning is recommended for easier and healthier development of nuts. It takes about 12 years for the nuts to start forming for use.
This large nut tree can grow up to 75 feet in height in proper conditions. Full sun is the ideal condition for this tree, so make sure you find the perfect spot for the tree before planting. The tree is tolerant of different soils but acidic, well-drained soils are preferred.
Local Tree Experts Overview
When it comes to nut and fruit trees for Baytown, there are many different options you can choose from. Usually, experts recommend planting citrus trees as they thrive really well in our climate. You just have to take care they have enough water and that they are protected from rare cold snaps. Consult with your local arborist to get advice about caring for fruit and nut trees in the area!
