Let us learn to appreciate there will be times when the trees will be bare, and look forward to the time when we may pick the fruit. -Anton Chekhov

Trees can provide a diverse range of fruits and nuts, which can help to meet a family’s nutritional needs. For example, fruit trees like apples, pears, and peaches can provide a source of vitamin C and dietary fiber, while nut trees like almonds and walnuts can provide a source of protein and healthy fats.

Growing trees for food has several benefits, including:

Sustainability: Trees can provide food for a long time and can be grown in a way that is sustainable for the environment.

Food security: Trees can provide a reliable source of food, especially in areas with limited access to other food sources.

Income generation: Selling the fruit from trees can provide an additional source of income for farmers and communities.

Biodiversity: Growing a variety of fruit trees can increase the biodiversity of an area and support local ecosystems.

Improved nutrition: Trees provide nutritious fruits and nuts that can improve diets and provide important vitamins and minerals.

Fruit Trees

When choosing fruit trees to grow for food crops, several factors should be considered, including:

Climate: Choose fruit trees that are well-suited to your local climate and soil conditions.

Market demand: Consider what fruits are in demand in your area and whether there is a market for them.

Pest and disease resistance: Choose fruit trees that are resistant to common pests and diseases in your area.

Space: Consider the size and growth habit of the fruit tree, as well as the space you have available for growing.

Personal preference: Consider your personal taste and preferences, as well as what you and your family like to eat.

Ease of maintenance: Some fruit trees may require more care and maintenance than others, so choose one that is suitable for your level of experience and resources.

Season of harvest: Determine the time of year when the fruit is in season, and whether this fits with your goals for the food crop.

Nut Trees

Nut trees can also be good to grow for food. Nut trees provide a valuable source of protein and healthy fats, and they have several advantages as a food crop, including:

Long lifespan: Nut trees can live for many years, providing a sustainable food source for generations.

Drought tolerance: Many nut trees are drought-tolerant and can still produce a good yield in dry conditions.

Productivity: Nut trees can be highly productive and can produce a large amount of nuts per tree.

Versatility: Nuts can be used in a variety of ways, such as roasted, made into nut butter, or used in baking.

Value-added products: Nuts can also be processed into other products, such as oil, flour, or milk, increasing their value and versatility.

However, it’s important to consider the specific growing conditions and requirements of the nut tree you plan to grow, as well as the demand for the nuts in your area, before planting.

In addition to fruit and nut trees, many trees have other edible parts. For example, maple trees can be tapped for their sap, which can be boiled down into syrup. Some tree leaves, like those of the moringa tree, are packed with nutrients and can be used in salads or as a cooked green.

Planting and maintaining a variety of food-bearing trees can enhance food security on the homestead and reduce dependence on external food sources.

Download: Growing Trees For Food Checklist PDF