This post shows you the easiest fruits to grow in pots and containers!
Once you have plucked and eaten a plump and ripe berry straight from the vine, you’ll never want to buy from the store again.
More and more people are starting container gardens or dedicating plots in their backyards to growing berries, peaches, apricots, and more.
Spring is right around the corner and you can enjoy the freshness and ripeness too. And fruits are easy!
In this post, we’ll discuss the easiest fruits to grow that adapt well to containers as well as planting, harvesting, and maintenance tips to ensure you have plenty of fruit for the seasons to come!
Most of these fruit trees can thrive in most zones throughout the United States but if you’re unsure, be sure to check your planting zone.
Here are 7 easy fruits you can grow in pots, just in time for Spring!
1. Blackberries
There are two types of blackberries – the trailing type aka ‘dewberry’ or the erect type. The upright variety will form stiff canes that offer support, which is the variety you’ll want for containers.
Plant blackberries in well-drained soil that retains plenty of moisture.
Remember, blackberries have canes that send out lateral branches with fruit buds in the first year that will ripen into actual fruit in the second season.
The key to healthy growth and fruit is a regular pruning schedule!
Harvest tip: As the berry color starts to turn, keep a close eye on the patch to pluck at peak ripeness. Berries should be ripe and sweet, but still firm. Picking during the morning hours is best!
2. Blueberries
Blueberries are the odd fruit out since they do best in acidic soil. Any other fruit would probably suffer.
These fruits are not self-pollinating so be sure to purchase two varieties. It’s best to buy plants from a reliable nursery that can provide clear direction and guidance.
A blueberry bush takes care of itself for the most part but pruning is again, a key factor in the highest yields and healthy growth.
Harvest tip: Avoid plucking blueberries off the vine as soon as the color turns. Wait a few days until the berry easily falls from the bush for the best taste.
3. Citrus
If you live in a tropical area, growing citrus is going to be on your mind to grow this Spring!
Go with the classic orange or smaller dwarf tangerine varieties like Dancy or Fremont. You can even get away with lemons or grapefruit in some areas.
Citrus thrives in soil with good drainage and high temperatures. They love high heat but can get away with partly shady areas throughout the day.
Harvest tip: Citrus is ready to harvest for long periods, even more than 3 months at times. However, for the best flavor, you’ll want to pick the fruits after they mature as soon as possible by cutting them from the branches.
4. Strawberries
Strawberries are the perfect introduction to growing fruit and are great for an ornamental display or part of an overall garden.
Lucky for you, there are an abundance of varieties to grow and they are all self-fertile! Some can tolerate colder temperatures than others, be sure to check out your local nursery for recommendations in your area.
The key to strawberry growth is a strong root system so planting at the correct soil depth with medium sunlight is essential!
Harvest tip: Once strawberries begin to ripen, the process will happen fast. Keep an eye on them or simply pluck and eat them as you enjoy your outdoor space!
5. Bush Cherries
Bush cherries are a balcony gardener’s dream!
These plants produce beautiful clusters of delicious red fruit on dense shrubs that are ideal for accent planting. The most popular varieties are Nanking and Hansen.
Bush cherries grow well in soil with good drainage. If the soil is too dense or compact, be sure to add compost over time to loosen it over time. Proper maintenance is needed to keep the plant free of weeds and keep moisture retention of soil.
Harvest tip: When berries begin to ripen, check the shrubs daily to catch falling fruit.
6. Raspberries
Most raspberries are red but you can find black and purple varieties too. All varieties can be grown in most parts of the countries and they are self-fertile! Popular red varieties include Hilton and Indian Summer.
Raspberries need moisture and soil that is rich in organic matter. If you bought a plant from the nursery, be sure to soak the roots before planting.
Like blackberries, raspberries will need regular pruning for the healthiest growth and highest yield of fruit.
Harvest tip: Pay close attention as raspberries start to ripen, they will change color rapidly! Check on the plant every day for the best harvest time.
7. Fig
A fig tree will thrive in any decent potting mix. It is a hardy fast-growing tree that can provide dense shade as well as tasty fruit! Most varieties are self-fruiting so only one tree or cutting needs to be planted.
The secret to a healthy fig tree is routine fertilization, preferably water-soluble to avoid burning your plant!
Harvest tip: To pick ripe figs, look for fruit that is dark purple or black, a little soft to the touch, and slightly drooping from their stem.
Final Thoughts
This post has shown you 7 of the easiest fruits to grow in pots, just in time for Spring!
With weather and climate changes, be sure to research your zone. However, these are great options for beginners and an easy way to get introduced to taking care of plants!
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