Fruits as Ornamentals

by Marvin Pritts

Lastly, I'd like to address a common question that we are often asked. "Why didn't my tree produce fruit this year?"

First, did the tree flower? Sometimes, cold winter temperatures will kill the flower buds, and without flowers, there can be no fruit.

Second, a frost during bloom frequently occurs and is a major reason why trees do not produce fruit in some years.

Third, consider pollination. Many tree fruits (apples, pears, sweet cherries) require another variety that produces compatible pollen at the same time in order to set fruit. Did a neighbor cut down their apple tree, thereby removing a source of pollen? A single apple tree with no other apples in the vicinity is unlikely to produce fruit.

Fourth, was the weather conducive for bee flight during the time that flowers were open? Tree fruits are pollinated by bees, not wind, so cold, rainy weather during flowering can significantly reduce fruit set.

Fifth, too little sun can greatly reduce flower bud formation, and improper pruning (removing fruiting wood) and training (not tying down branches) can reduce flower bud production as well.