Best Fruit Trees for Calgary's Climate

Calgary might not be the first place that comes to mind when you think about growing fruit trees, but you might be surprised at what can thrive here with the right care and variety. Thanks to modern hardy cultivars and a little strategic planting, backyard growers in Calgary can enjoy homegrown fruit despite our famously unpredictable weather, short growing season, and chilly winters.

The key to success is choosing cold-hardy, early-ripening varieties and providing good drainage, full sun, and some wind protection when possible. Here are some of the best fruit trees to grow in Calgary, along with tips to help them flourish.

Apple Trees

Apples are one of the most reliable fruit trees for Calgary's Zone 3/4 climate. With many hardy varieties available, you can enjoy everything from fresh eating apples to those perfect for pies and sauces. Look for varieties that ripen early—Calgary's frost can arrive as soon as September, so late-maturing apples may not finish in time.

Recommended Varieties:

• Norland – A sweet, crisp red apple that ripens early and stores well.
• Battleford – Good for cooking and fresh eating, and very cold-hardy.
• Prairie Magic – Larger and sweet, with an early harvest.

Apple trees require cross-pollination, so plant at least two compatible varieties nearby or consider a crabapple like Rescue as a pollinator.

Pear Trees

While not as commonly grown as apples, hardy pear trees can still perform well in Calgary with proper care. Pears are a little more sensitive to late frosts during bloom time, so consider planting them in a slightly sheltered location.

Recommended Varieties:

• Ure – A small to medium-sized yellow pear, very hardy and excellent for preserves.
• Golden Spice – Small but sweet with good cold resistance.

Most pears need a partner for pollination, so plant two varieties or grafted trees that include multiple types.

Plum Trees

Plums are another cold-tolerant option, especially the hybrid varieties developed specifically for the Canadian prairie. They're beautiful trees in spring with their early blossoms, and the fruit makes great jams, jellies, and fresh snacks.

Recommended Varieties:

• Pembina – Large red fruit with sweet yellow flesh.
• Brookgold – Yellow-fleshed with good flavor and early harvest.
• Tecumseh – Great for fresh eating and hardy down to Zone 2.

Plum trees often require a compatible variety nearby for pollination, unless you select a self-fertile cultivar.

Cherry Trees

Sour cherries (also called dwarf cherries or prairie cherries) have become increasingly popular in Calgary thanks to breeding work from the University of Saskatchewan. These bush-type trees produce delicious, tangy fruit and are compact enough for smaller yards.

Recommended Varieties:

• Carmine Jewel – Very hardy and productive, excellent for pies.
• Juliet – Slightly sweeter and good for fresh eating.
• Romeo – High in antioxidants and one of the richest-flavored cherries available.

These cherries are self-pollinating, so you only need one to produce fruit, though more trees will increase yield.

Apricot and Nanking Cherry

For something a little different, consider trying Manchurian apricots or Nanking cherries, which are technically more shrub-like but can still produce small fruit in Calgary's climate. These are ornamental as well as productive, with lovely spring blossoms and high wildlife value.

Note: Apricots bloom early, so there is always a risk of losing the flowers to frost. Plant them in a warm, sheltered microclimate (south-facing wall, windbreak, etc.) to give them the best shot.

Tips for Success

Growing fruit trees in Calgary requires a little planning and patience. Here are a few tips to help:

• Choose the right location. Fruit trees need full sun—at least six hours per day—and well-draining soil.
• Water regularly, especially when young. Deep watering helps roots establish and improves drought tolerance.
• Protect from wildlife. Deer and rabbits love tender bark and fruit—use tree wraps and fencing if needed.
• Prune annually. Keep your trees shaped and healthy with winter or early spring pruning.
• Mulch and fertilize. Use mulch to retain soil moisture and apply compost or tree fertilizer in spring.

For more planting advice specific to Calgary's climate, you can visit local resources like the Calgary Horticultural Society or check out Greengate Garden Centres for hardy trees and planting supplies.

Final Thoughts

Fruit trees don't just provide tasty harvests—they bring beauty, shade, and even increased property value to your yard. With a bit of care and the right selection, Calgary gardeners can absolutely enjoy the satisfaction of growing their own apples, cherries, plums, and more. Start with hardy varieties, give them some love, and enjoy watching your backyard orchard grow.