By Scout Nelson
Tom Kalb's favorite fruit is a tree-ripened peach, a favorite of his in Wisconsin. He recalls his first encounter with a magnificent peach tree in his orchard, but the memory also brings sadness as the tree didn't survive beyond that winter, breaking Kalb's heart. The fruit's beauty and rarity make it a favorite among many.
Determined, Kalb tried again with a different variety, but fate repeated itself. His newly planted tree bore fruit and then succumbed to the winter's chill. Many might regret such endeavors, but not Kalb.
Fast forward 30 years, and the horticulturist moved to Bismarck, North Dakota. Here, he was presented with the question: Are peach trees viable in North Dakota? To demonstrate the challenges, Kalb planted a Contender peach tree. It managed to withstand one winter.
Tom advises caution to those tempted by tales of hardy peach varieties. While a peach tree's success in North Dakota is rare, it isn't impossible with careful location selection and protective measures. But the primary lesson, Kalb emphasizes, is to respect Mother Nature. Instead of pushing against her limits, work alongside them.
In North Dakota, that means focusing on hardier fruits like Canadian apricots, yellow plums, and golden chokecherries. Not only are they flavorful, but they're also built to withstand the region's frosty winters.
If you're keen to get more gardening insights, especially suited for North Dakota, reach out to your local NDSU Extension agent.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-adyna
Categories: North Dakota, Crops, Fruits and Vegetables