Fruiting Trees, Shrubs, and Vines: A Garden Guide

Are you dreaming of a yard that does more than just look good? Fruiting trees, shrubs, and vines offer beauty and bounty—and many are well-suited to the Midwest’s climate. Whether you’re looking to create a mini orchard, grow something new in your backyard, or add edible interest to a landscape, these plants are hardworking, delicious, and often surprisingly low maintenance.

Here’s your guide to some Powell Gardens favorites, including native species and others that thrive in our region.

Recommended Fruiting Plants

Alpine Strawberries (Fragaria vesca)

Tiny but mighty, alpine strawberries produce intensely flavored, jewel-like berries from late spring through fall. These low-growing perennials are perfect for edging garden beds or tucking into pots.

Planting time: Early spring after the last frost

Size: 6–8 inches tall

Care tips: Plant strawberry plants in full sun to part shade with rich, well-drained soil. Water regularly, mulch to retain moisture, and harvest berries frequently to encourage continued production. Unlike June-bearing strawberries, alpines don’t need to be thinned out or renovated annually.

Eastern Prickly Pear (Opuntia humifusa)

Yes, cacti grow in the Midwest! The native eastern prickly pear thrives in dry, sandy soils and produces sunny yellow flowers followed by bright red, pear-shaped fruit.

Planting time: Spring or early summer

Size: 6–12 inches tall, spreads up to 3 feet wide

Care tips: Choose a sunny, well-drained site—prickly pear hates wet feet. Because this plant has protective spikes, wear gloves to harvest fruit (and remove glochids, the tiny spines, before eating). Minimal watering and no fertilizer needed.

Bonus: The Eastern Prickly Pear is incredibly drought-tolerant and pollinator-friendly.

Plums (Prunus spp.)

Plum trees are a delicious and ornamental addition to any Midwest garden, offering fragrant spring blooms and juicy summer fruit. Several varieties—such as American, hybrid, and European plums—can thrive here, with the right selection for cold hardiness.

Planting time: Early spring while trees are dormant

Size: 8–15 feet tall and wide, depending on variety and rootstock

Care tips: Choose a sunny, well-drained location and plant at least two compatible varieties for cross-pollination and reliable fruit set. Prune annually to maintain an open canopy and good airflow. Watch for common pests like plum curculio and fungal diseases, especially in humid conditions. A layer of mulch helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Harvest fruit when it gives slightly under gentle pressure.

Akebia (Akebia quinata)

Also known as chocolate vine, akebia is a vigorous climber that can produce unusual sausage-shaped fruit with a subtly sweet, gelatinous interior (as long as you have two genetically different plants for cross-pollination).

Planting time: Spring or fall

Size: 15–30 feet long vine

Care tips: Plant in full sun to part shade with rich soil and sturdy support. Akebia is semi-evergreen and can spread aggressively—keep it in check with regular pruning. Fruiting is rare without a compatible pollinator, but it’s a beautiful plant even without harvests.

Pawpaw (Asimina triloba)

This Midwest native is having a moment—and for good reason. Pawpaws produce creamy, mango-banana flavored fruit in late summer and add tropical flair to shady landscapes.

Planting time: Early spring

Size: 15–30 feet tall

Care tips: Plant at least two genetically different trees for cross-pollination. Choose a sheltered location with rich, moist soil. Young trees prefer partial shade. Mature trees fruit best in sun. Keep soil evenly moist and mulch well. Protect fruit from raccoons and squirrels—pawpaws are a wildlife favorite.

Figs (Ficus carica)

Figs can be grown in the Midwest with a little winter protection. Look for cold-hardy varieties like ‘Chicago Hardy’ or ‘Celeste,’ which can regrow from roots even after winter dieback.

Planting time: After last frost

Size: 6–10 feet tall (in-ground or container)

Care tips: Plant in full sun with well-drained soil. In colder zones, figs that are cut down and covered can remain outdoors. Fertilize lightly in early spring. Water during fruiting and thin to improve airflow. Watch for birds and ants when fruit ripens—netting or frequent harvesting can help.

Peaches (Prunus persica)

While not native to the Midwest, many peach varieties are hardy enough for growing in zone 6 and worth the effort for homegrown summer sweetness.

Planting time: Early spring while dormant

Size: 12–15 feet tall and wide

Care tips: Choose cold-hardy varieties like ‘Contender’ or ‘Reliance.’ Plant in full sun with well-drained soil. Thin fruit in spring (aim for one peach every 6–8 inches) to prevent limb breakage and improve final fruit size. Prune annually for shape and airflow. Protect blooms from late frosts and watch for peach leaf curl and borers.

General Fruit Care Tips for Midwest Growers

Once your fruiting tree, shrub, or vine is planted, there’s still work to do! Learn best practices for these fruiting plants to increase your production and harvest.

Thinning Fruit

Thinning prevents branches from breaking and helps develop larger, tastier fruit. For trees like peaches or pawpaws, aim to thin out excess fruit by early summer.

Pest and Bird Management

Use netting to deter birds and squirrels and keep an eye out for insect pests like aphids, caterpillars, or borers. Organic sprays like neem oil or insecticidal soap can help. Consider inviting beneficial insects like into your garden.

Fertilizing

Fruiting plants are hungry growers! Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring, or compost for a more natural approach. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, which can lead to lush leaves but little fruit.

Whether you’re after flavor, wildlife value, or visual interest, these plants make it easy to grow your own Midwest orchard—no matter the size of your space. Visit Powell Gardens this season for more inspiration or explore our collections to see many of these edibles thriving across our Gardens!