When considering enhancements to your homestead, planting a few trees is an excellent idea, regardless of how long you’ve been residing on the property. Trees offer numerous benefits beyond providing shade and aesthetic appeal, serving multiple purposes that can elevate the functionality and value of your land. Some species can be used for edible fruits and nuts, while others provide valuable resources like heating fuel or construction materials.
As such, selecting the most suitable trees is crucial to maximize your investment in saplings. Here are some top-performing tree options to consider.
Best Fruit Trees
While fruit trees are a popular choice for homesteads, there’s more to tree-growing than just harvesting juicy fruits. When planning your homestead’s arboreal landscape, it’s essential to consider a variety of tree species that cater to different needs and purposes.
Plum
The American plum tree (Prunus spp.) is an excellent choice for homestead gardens. Its compact growth habit means it won’t overwhelm surrounding plants, yet still yields a bountiful harvest of plums. These versatile fruits can be enjoyed fresh or used to create a range of delicious products like wines, juices, jellies, jams, and prunes.
But the plum tree’s utility doesn’t stop there – its dense, thorny foliage also provides natural protection from unwanted pests and intruders, thanks to the complex brambles it forms through suckering and interlacing branches.
Apple
Apple trees (Malus spp.) are an essential component of any homestead. With numerous varieties to select from, you’re likely to find the perfect one for your needs. The benefits of growing apples extend far beyond simply enjoying them fresh; they can also be stored in a root cellar or utilized in various culinary applications like apple butter, apple sauce, and apple juice.
If you’re considering adding an apple tree to your homestead, it’s worth exploring options like ‘McIntosh,’ ‘Honeycrisp,’ and ‘Red Delicious’, which are just a few examples of the many varieties available.
Mulberry
Mulberry (Morus spp.) stands out as an exceptional choice for a homestead. Its fruits offer a wide range of culinary possibilities, including the delightful mulberry wine. A rapid-growing tree, it also yields wood that can be used as firewood, boasting a higher yield per acre compared to many other trees. However, it’s essential to note that the mulberry tree’s pollen is highly allergenic for some individuals, potentially causing asthma and breathing issues.
Fortunately, this concern can be mitigated by opting to grow female trees, which are considered hypoallergenic since they don’t produce pollen. This viable solution allows homesteaders to reap the benefits of the mulberry tree without compromising their health.
Pear
While apple trees often steal the show, pear trees (Pyrus spp.) offer a more laid-back approach to growing. With minimal effort, you can cultivate these sweet treats that rival their apple counterparts in terms of taste and ease of care. Pears are surprisingly easy to grow, with some varieties reaching heights of up to 30 feet, although dwarf and semi-dwarf options are also available for smaller spaces.
If you’re looking to try your hand at growing pears on your homestead, ‘Bartlett’ and ‘Anjou’ are two popular varieties to consider, offering a sweet reward with minimal fuss.
Peach
While apple trees are undoubtedly valuable additions to any homestead, they do have one significant drawback: they take a considerable amount of time to mature. In contrast, peach trees (Prunus persica) can begin bearing fruit in as little as five years. To capitalize on this, it’s essential to select a cultivar that will thrive in your specific region, as each variety has its own unique growing requirements.
Peaches, for instance, prefer well-draining soil and full sun exposure in order to produce abundantly. For those residing in colder climates, consider training your peach trees in an espalier style against walls, where the reflected heat creates a microclimate ideal for flowering and fruiting. Furthermore, the bark and twigs of peach trees can be utilized to create a tincture that effectively treats hot, inflamed insect bites and stings.
Fig
While figs (Ficus spp.) might not be the first fruits that come to mind when thinking about your homestead fruit supply, they’re definitely worth considering. In fact, fig trees are incredibly easy to grow, making them a great option for beginners. If you don’t live in a frost-free zone, you can even grow them in containers and bring them indoors during the colder months. As long as you have a sunny spot, you should be able to coax your fig tree into producing fruit.
Just keep in mind that the leaves of the plant are toxic to pets if ingested, so make sure to keep an eye on any furry friends that might try to get too close.
Cherry
On your homestead, you can cultivate either sweet Prunus avium or sour Prunus cerasus cherry trees – and why not both? These versatile trees provide an abundance of fruits perfect for baking, juicing, and savoring fresh. When growing multiple cherry species, it’s essential to ensure they’re isolated from one another. This is because most varieties are self-fertile but can cross-pollinate, potentially resulting in unexpected hybridized fruit within 100 feet.
The benefits of cherry trees extend beyond their succulent fruits; the bark and twigs also possess medicinal properties. A syrup or tincture made from these components serves as an effective expectorant, aiding in the elimination of phlegm associated with bronchitis and other respiratory issues.
Nectarine
Nectarines (Prunus persica) are another fast-growing tree that can thrive in a homestead setting. In fact, with proper care, a single tree can yield up to 40 pounds of fruit per year for over two decades – a remarkable harvest! While regular pruning is necessary to maintain the tree’s health and productivity, the payoff is well worth the effort.
As free-stone fruits, nectarines boast flesh that readily separates from their stones, making them an ideal choice for baking, preserving, and other culinary pursuits. Most varieties of nectarine trees are self-fertile, but it’s always a good idea to check the specific characteristics of your cultivars.
Apricot
Apricot trees (Prunus armeniaca) boast a remarkable growth rate, producing fruit within just three years of planting. Their lifespan can span an impressive 50 to 150 years, making them a worthwhile investment. However, they demand specific conditions to thrive: deep, well-drained soil rich in nutrients and ample sunshine. While some varieties can tolerate temperatures as low as zone 4, others may be sensitive to extreme cold.
It’s essential to research the cultivars you’re interested in, as some apricots are self-fertile while others require cross-pollination for optimal fruiting.
Elderberry
Elderberry trees (Sambucus sp.) can reach impressive heights of up to 12 feet tall and spread outwards with a width of over 5 feet. A notable feature of these trees is the sweetly fragrant blooms they produce, which are not only aesthetically pleasing but also utilized in the creation of cordials and wines. Additionally, the fruit that elderberry trees yield is both palatable and possessing medicinal properties.
For those seeking to cultivate a self-sufficient homestead where food and medicine can be grown simultaneously, Sambucus sp. is an essential species to consider incorporating into your landscape.
Hackberry
For those seeking a long-lasting native North American species that yields an abundance of fruit, the hackberry (Celtis occidentalis) is an excellent choice. Though its popularity has waxed and waned over time, this resilient tree remains a prolific producer of nutrient-rich fruits that thrive in a wide range of soil types and withstand various weather conditions. Its adaptability knows no bounds, making it an ideal candidate for cultivation in central and northern North America.
Hackberries can grow up to 40 feet tall, with some specimens reportedly living for up to 200 years. The fruit itself is small and purple, bearing a flavor profile that combines the sweetness of elderberries with the tartness of currants.
Serviceberry
Serviceberries (Amelanchier alnifolia) are also known as Saskatoon Berries, Juneberries, and shadbush berries. These small-to-medium-sized trees typically reach a height of around 14 feet at maturity. They produce small, sweet purple fruits from July to September, depending on your location. It’s no surprise that both humans and birds alike have a taste for these succulent treats.
To ensure you get to enjoy some of the fruit yourself, consider covering your trees with fine netting to deter our feathered friends from getting to them first.
Pawpaw
Native Americans have long revered the Asimina triloba, a deciduous tree that yields some of the most delectable fruits on earth. While its popularity waned around a century ago, modern chefs who champion foraged foods and indigenous ingredients have revived interest in this remarkable species. The pawpaw fruit is particularly enticing, boasting a flavor profile reminiscent of vanilla-banana custard with subtle hints of pineapple – an irresistible treat for homesteaders with a sweet tooth.
However, it’s essential to consider the tree’s growth potential: under ideal conditions, Asimina triloba can reach heights of up to 35 feet. When cultivating these trees near walnut varieties, which can grow as tall as 100 feet and span up to 50 feet in width, careful pruning is necessary to ensure your pawpaws receive sufficient light and rainfall.
Olive
If you reside in USDA zones 9 through 12, cultivating olive trees (Olea europaea) on your homestead might be a worthwhile endeavor. Although their fruit may not be particularly sweet, it’s rich in Omega 3 fatty acids and nutrients that provide a range of health benefits. Furthermore, the wood from these trees is highly valued for carvings and furniture-making, while their leaves possess notable medicinal properties.
In fact, olive leaf has been traditionally used to treat conditions like shingles and other viral skin infections, making it an attractive addition to your homestead’s apothecary.
Best Nut Trees
While fruit trees undoubtedly bring joy and bounty to any farm, cultivating nut trees can be an equally rewarding experience that also helps reduce your reliance on the grocery store. The added benefit of having a steady supply of nuts at your fingertips is a tangible advantage that can make a significant impact on your household budget.
Almond
Almond trees (Prunus dulcis) are a popular choice for gardeners in zones 5-9, renowned for their nutty bounty and versatility. The edible nuts are not only rich in nutrients but also packed with fiber, making them an excellent addition to a healthy diet. Moreover, the nuts can be processed into various products, such as oil, flour, and plant-based milk alternatives. However, it’s essential to note that almond trees are not self-fertile, requiring at least two cultivars for cross-pollination.
To ensure successful pollination, these cultivars must bloom simultaneously, allowing them to capitalize on their fertile windows.
Walnut
Walnut trees (Juglans sp.) are a top choice for homesteaders seeking to cultivate wood, but they’re also renowned for their nut-bearing abilities. The edible kernel of the fruit is savored fresh or used in baked goods, while the tree’s wood is valued for flooring, furniture, gun stocks, and other applications. Interestingly, walnuts can also be used to produce ink and dyes.
However, it’s essential to note that walnut trees release a compound called juglone into the soil, which can have allelopathic effects on surrounding plants, potentially stunting or preventing their growth. Fortunately, there are several homestead-friendly species that are resistant to juglone’s influence, making them suitable for planting in close proximity to walnuts in a guild configuration.
Chestnut
Chestnut trees (Castanea dentata) thrive in zones 4-8, making them a popular choice for many gardeners. While the wood is suitable for building and firewood, it’s the nuts that truly set these trees apart. With their rich flavor and versatility, chestnuts can be enjoyed roasted on their own or incorporated into a wide range of recipes, from sweet treats to savory soups and stews.
Just be prepared to share with some furry friends – wild animals like squirrels are known to go nutty for chestnuts too.
Pecan
Pecan pie lovers rejoice! The humble pecan tree is an impressive specimen that thrives in zones 4-9, making it a staple in many northern regions. As members of the hickory family, these trees are capable of producing copious amounts of nuts for up to three centuries – a testament to their hardiness and longevity.
While pecan trees can grow quite large, they’re still worth having around for snacking purposes.
Their nutritious nuts are packed with beneficial fats, making them an excellent choice for those looking to incorporate more healthy fats into their diet.
It’s important to note that while pecans are self-fertile, the timing of their male and female flowers can vary, resulting in reduced pollination and subsequent nut production. To ensure optimal yields, it’s recommended to plant at least two or three pecan trees in close proximity to each other.
This will greatly increase the chances of successful cross-pollination, resulting in a bountiful harvest.
Hazelnut
Hazelnuts are a great option for growers in the northern regions, offering cold hardiness equivalent to zone 2 with cultivars like ‘beaked hazelnut’ (Corylus cornuta). These compact trees, reaching only 8 feet at maturity, boast exceptional ease of care. Moreover, they can flourish in both partial shade and direct sunlight, making them an excellent choice for understory planting.
Hazelbert
For hazelnut enthusiasts, the discovery of hazelberts can be a game-changer. These hybrids, born from the union of standard hazelnut trees and red filberts, boast larger and sweeter nuts compared to their traditional counterparts. Moreover, they possess natural resistance to various diseases and pests, making them an attractive option for many growers.
It’s essential to note that hazelnut trees are naturally self-sterile, requiring the presence of at least two distinct varieties to facilitate cross-pollination.
Butternut
The eastern black walnut (Juglans cinerea) is a widespread species found throughout the midwestern and northeastern United States, as well as in Canada from Quebec to eastern New Brunswick. Its nut characteristics are similar to those of walnuts, albeit elongated and sweeter, with a lower juglone release into the surrounding soil. For gardeners in colder growing zones, this tree offers a more reliable option than the standard walnut, capable of producing nuts as far north as zone 3.
Furthermore, it is self-fertile, eliminating the need to plant multiple trees for a bountiful harvest of nutrient-dense nuts.
Beech
In my two decades of gardening, I’ve observed that native species tend to flourish more significantly than introduced ones. Take beech trees (Fagus spp.) as an example. When they’re endemic to your region, you can expect them to live longer and produce a bountiful harvest of nuts, far surpassing the yield from non-native nut trees. Beech nuts are particularly prized for their rich nutritional profile, sweet flavor, and delectable taste.
Although beeches may not start producing notable yields until they’re around 40 years old, they can live for centuries – a testament to their remarkable longevity. If you’re planning to pass on your property to future generations, these trees will continue to provide sustenance for generations to come.
Best Trees for Firewood
When it comes to sustainable heat sources for a self-sufficient homestead, wood heat stands out as a reliable and eco-friendly option. To achieve this level of autonomy, incorporating the right tree species into your landscaping is crucial. Here are some top picks for trees that can help you get there.
Cedar
Cedar wood, despite being classified as softwood, stands out from other firewood options due to its slow-burning properties and aromatic fragrance. This unique combination makes it an excellent choice for cooking, whether you’re baking salmon on cedar planks or smoking meat over a cedar-fueled fire. When it comes to building and crafting, cedar’s exceptional rot-resistance makes it an ideal material for furniture-making and fence post construction.
Its natural oils also repel moths and mice, making it a great option for closets, storage chests, and even dresser drawers where unwanted critters might try to make themselves at home. If you have off-cuts of cedar, consider using them as a natural deterrent or repelling insects. Beyond its practical uses, cedar leaves can be steeped into a tea rich in vitamin C, providing a refreshing wintertime tonic when sweetened with maple syrup or honey.
Additionally, cedar shavings can be used for animal bedding and garden mulch, offering a range of benefits that showcase this versatile wood’s many advantages.
Pine
Pine trees (Pinus spp.) are an incredibly versatile species that can thrive in almost any growing zone. Their numerous uses make them a valuable addition to any homestead. One of their key characteristics is their rapid burn time, making them ideal for starting fires quickly. Additionally, pine lumber is suitable for building structures and creating furniture. The tree’s resin also has several practical applications, including as glue, roofing material, and sealant.
Furthermore, pine has significant medicinal properties that have been utilized for centuries. If you’re a fan of pine nuts, you can harvest them from the cones, with some species like Pinyon/Colorado pines (Pinus edulis) being particularly notable for their large, flavorful nuts that are also easier to collect.
Oak
When it comes to cultivating Oaks (Quercus spp.), many enthusiasts are unaware that these trees can be harvested for not only their esteemed acorns but also high-quality firewood. Specifically, Oak hardwood is renowned for producing a long-lasting and fiercely hot flame. For those seeking to cultivate Oaks primarily for their edible acorns, bur or white oak varieties are the ideal choice.
These types of Oaks yield sweet, flavorful acorns with minimal tannins, making them a sought-after option among foragers.
Hickory
Hickory trees (Carya spp.) are a versatile hardwood species that excel as a heat source. Their wood also lends itself well to smoking foods for preservation, and they offer delicious nuts as an added bonus. For homesteaders seeking multi-purpose trees, hickory is definitely worth considering. If you’re particularly fond of the distinctive flavor imparted by hickory, then Carya ovata, or shagbark hickory, is the specific variety to plant.
Its nuts have a similar taste profile to pecans, while its wood adds an unparalleled depth of flavor when used for smoking.
Other Trees to Consider
Trees offer a multitude of uses beyond providing sustenance and fuel. Their versatility is exemplified by their ability to serve as a natural barrier for shelter, produce sweet syrups, and provide numerous other practical benefits. When selecting trees to plant, it’s essential to consider those that can fulfill these various purposes.
Hawthorn
Hawthorn (Crataegus spp.) is a versatile tree that can serve as an effective natural barrier when planted close together. The presence of numerous thorns on the trees makes them an ideal deterrent for unwanted visitors. By training young tree limbs to grow in long lines, rather than allowing them to ascend vertically, you can create a self-sustaining fence that requires minimal pruning over time. This is just one of the many ways hawthorn trees can be utilized.
In addition to their defensive properties, hawthorn’s leaves, berries, and flowers have been used for centuries to treat various health issues, including pulmonary conditions, circulatory problems, anxiety, and high cholesterol. Moreover, the berries are a culinary delight when transformed into wine, jams, jellies, chutneys, syrups, and preserves.
Locust
When it comes to using black locust and honey locust trees (Locusta spp.) on a farm, while both have their benefits, honey locust stands out for its dual purpose as a natural deterrent and food source. The tree’s thorny exterior gives way to pods packed with sweet, nutrient-rich pulp that can be consumed by humans or animals alike. Another advantage of these leguminous trees is their ability to fix nitrogen into the soil, enriching the surrounding ecosystem.
However, it’s essential to correctly identify the type of locust tree you’re growing, as honey locust pods are edible while black locust pods are toxic. A simple mistake could have serious consequences, making proper identification crucial for any farm or garden utilizing these versatile trees.
Osage Orange
Osage orange is renowned for its unique ability to serve as a natural barrier, effectively deterring both humans and larger animals like cattle. This is due to its densely branching structure, which is covered in thick, formidable spines that can cause significant harm to anyone who ventures too close. The tree’s robust growth habit and extensive root system also render it an excellent solution for soil stabilization on slopes in need of reinforcement.
Furthermore, the wood obtained from this tree can be leveraged for firewood, fence posts, and other essential supplies.
JuJube
The Ziziphus jujuba tree, also known as the JuJube tree, is an exceptional option for those living in hot climates. Its hardiness allows it to thrive in temperatures ranging from sub-zero to over 100F degrees. This versatility is unmatched among many of the temperate trees mentioned earlier.
One of the most notable features of the JuJube fruit is its adaptability. Not only can it be used to create vinegar or wine, but it’s also edible when consumed fresh.
The fruit itself is rich in beneficial nutrients and vitamins, boasting anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, anti-ulcer, and anti-inflammatory properties. Its value extends beyond culinary uses, as it plays a significant role in Traditional Chinese and Korean Medicine, Ayurvedic practices, and Arabic medicinal traditions.
Beyond its impressive nutritional profile, the JuJube tree offers an added bonus: its thorns make it an ideal choice for natural defensive fencing.
Maple
When it comes to maple trees (Acer spp.), many people cultivate them for their wood, as the timber is renowned for producing exquisite, long-lasting furniture. Additionally, maple burns well due to its hardwood composition, making it an ideal choice for overnight stove use. However, some maple species can also be tapped to produce maple syrup. This process is accessible at home and can help offset your household’s sugar needs.
Notably, homemade maple syrup is a natural, unprocessed sweetener that’s rich in nutrients, providing essential carbohydrates. If you’re interested in tapping your trees for syrup, it’s crucial to ensure that you’re growing sugar maples (Acer saccharum) specifically.
Moringa
Moringa oleifera, often referred to as the ‘drumstick tree’, is a versatile plant that thrives both outdoors and indoors, making it an excellent addition to any homestead. While it’s typically grown outside in zones 9-12, its hardiness allows for successful cultivation indoors in large containers, provided optimal climate conditions are met. The real star of the show, however, is Moringa’s nutrient-dense foliage.
Packed with vitamins, minerals, and essential nutrients, a single leaf boasts an impressive array of benefits, including more vitamin C than an orange, significantly higher iron levels than spinach, 17 times the calcium content found in dairy products, and substantial protein reserves. Furthermore, these remarkable leaves can be used as forage for herbivorous homestead animals, providing a valuable source of sustenance.
Basswood
Basswood (Tilia americana) boasts a multitude of applications, with its versatile wood being particularly well-suited for crafting various items and projects. Furthermore, the inner bark fibers offer a wealth of opportunities for creating baskets, ropes, and nets, showcasing the versatility of this natural resource. Additionally, the leaves can be utilized as a nutritious salad green, further expanding the range of uses for this remarkable tree.
Willow
When it comes to homesteading, incorporating medicinal trees into your landscape can be a great way to increase self-sufficiency. If you’re fortunate enough to have a river or lake bordering your property, or even just a nearby creek or stream, consider planting willow (Salix sp.). With species suitable for various growing zones and cultivars offering diverse uses, willow trees are an excellent choice.
For instance, basket willow (Salix viminalis) is perfect for crafting baskets, while white willow (Salix alba) boasts the highest concentration of salicin in its cambium, making it an ideal natural analgesic. On the other hand, birch (Betula spp.) trees may be more familiar to many homesteaders, as they’re widespread throughout North America and Europe. Despite their ubiquity, these trees are often underappreciated for their medicinal properties.
Like sugar maples, birches produce a sweet, nutrient-rich sap that can be tapped in springtime, offering a slightly minty flavor and components with antiviral and anti-tumor qualities. The sap can also be used to treat kidney stones, scurvy, and gout. Lilacs (Syringa vulgaris) are another excellent choice for homesteaders. Not only do they produce gorgeous, edible blossoms with a sweet fragrance, but they’re also attractive pollinator magnets.
Plant some lilacs near your vegetable patch or as hedging around your home to enjoy the benefits of these beautiful trees. Lastly, witch hazel (Hamamelis spp.) is an ideal medicinal tree for homesteaders due to its impressive astringent and antiseptic properties. The leaves, bark, and twigs can be used to treat various skin conditions, including eczema, poison ivy, diaper rash, contact dermatitis, acne, and more.
Growing Trees on the Homestead is a Smart Choice
When selecting the right homestead trees for your property, consider the local climate, microclimate, and soil conditions. This will ensure you’re choosing species that thrive in your specific environment. Furthermore, only grow trees that serve a purpose or provide benefits to multiple household members. For instance, if nobody enjoys pears, there’s no sense in planting them. Instead, focus on varieties that can be used and appreciated by the entire family.
To gain valuable insights into which tree species perform well in your area, consult with your local cooperative extension. They can provide valuable information on pest management and disease prevention strategies tailored to your region’s unique conditions.
Armed with this knowledge, you’re ready to start planting! Cultivating trees is an excellent step towards achieving self-sufficiency on your homestead.
