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Why Fruit Trees Fail to Bear

Source: NDSU Extension Service Horticulturist

A fruit tree normally begins to bear fruit after it becomes old enough to blossom freely, provided other conditions are favorable. Tree health and environment, bearing habit, and the cultural practices used can all directly influence its ability to produce fruit.

Most nursery-produced fruit trees have tops that are one to two years old. The length of time required for them to bear fruit after planting varies with the kind of fruit. Apples usually bear fruit in 4-7 years while plums may bear as early as the third season after planting.

All fruit trees require pollination to produce fruit. Unless pollination takes place, trees can blossom abundantly but not bear. Bees are necessary for cross-pollination between two different tree fruit varieties. High winds, steady rainfall or cold temperatures can reduce bee movement during the flowering period. Consequently, poor pollination may occur under adverse weather conditions, resulting in poor fruit set. Cross-pollination is required for most tree fruits; therefore, it is essential to plant two or three different varieties to insure fruitfulness.

Extremely low temperatures during winter dormancy may kill or damage fruit buds. In addition, spring frosts during the flowering period may also drastically reduce fruit set.

Fruit trees that are grown near large shade trees are often poor producers. They are best planted in an area that receives full sun and less root competition from other trees.

Over fertilization (especially nitrogen fertilizers) will cause fruit trees to grow vigorously with delayed flowering. This can be overcome by allowing grass or weeds to compete with your trees for soil nutrients. Weeds should be mowed before going to seed.

For future reference, you may want to obtain a copy of Extension bulletin H-327,"Tree Fruit Culture and Varieties in North Dakota," which is available at your county office of the NDSU Extension Service.

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For More Information Contact your North Dakota County Extension Office of the NDSU Extension Service for additional information or see our main NDSU Web Page for publications and articles on Agriculture, Horticulture, Youth and Family, Business and Community and Food and Nutrition at  http://www.ag.ndsu.nodak.edu/