The Best Fruit-Tree Varieties for Organic Growing

Raising your fruit trees without the aid of man-made chemicals can be a challenge, so why not make it an easier and more successful endeavor by choosing disease-resistant organic trees at the outset?

Before choosing a disease-resistant variety, consider the earliest life of the tree. Has it been organically grown since propagation? By starting with a certified USDA Organic tree, you already have one significant advantage: the tree was grown in pure pastureland, never touched by toxic herbicides, pesticides or fertilizer. It’s “clean” from the very beginning, and will not have stress issues migrating from an early life of synthetic food that causes unnatural growth spurts to a slow, steady supply of naturally-occurring nutrients that the tree can take in as it requires. The long-term result will be a stronger tree with a healthier immune system.

Now you can consider disease-resistance. That’s your first line of defense as an organic fruit grower. If you plant a purple flower, you won’t have to worry about it producing red blooms. Same for disease-resistant fruit trees; if a tree is naturally resistant to apple scab, there’s no need to treat it for apple scab, which makes your life as an organic grower so much easier!


Here are some of the non-GMO, certified USDA Organic fruit trees that have natural, built-in disease resistance.


Growing fruit trees organically does require a different knowledge set than growing the traditional way. Keep these basic growing rules in mind for the best results:

  • Continuous soil-building is key. Don’t wait until you plant the tree to start a program of organic mulching, cover crops and a thriving compost pile. Plant the tree in healthy soil and then put as much effort into maintaining soil health as you do the tree itself.
  • Give your tree the best possible location. Plant the tree in full sun in a spot with good drainage. Those two circumstances along will prevent a host of problems.
  • Protect them against marauding wildlife. Deer, rabbits, voles and mice will cause physical injury to fruit trees, opening them up to disease and fungus problems. Fence your fruit trees and protect the trunks with tree guards.
  • Fruit trees are highly sensitive to mineral deficiencies in their “diet”. More frequent soil tests are required to make sure mineral levels are up to par and that the tree is getting what it needs to produce a good crop. Apple trees are especially finicky about calcium levels and generally require a supplement.
  • Read up on pests and diseases for the kind of trees you’re growing. Understand viral vs. bacterial diseases, and the insects that both plague and benefit your tree.
Article Categories:

Latest Articles

How To Prune Grapes - Summer Care Article imageArticle imageArticle imageArticle image
How To Prune Grapes - Summer Care Summer pruning helps control vigorous growth, improve fruit quality, and keep your grapevines healthy and productive throughout the growing season.
How to Make Redbud Jelly Redbud jellyRedbud jellyRedbud jellyRedbud jelly
How to Make Redbud Jelly Learn how to make redbud jelly from edible redbud tree blossoms with this easy small-batch recipe.
Winter Preparation for Fig Trees: Cutting Back and Mulching Article imageArticle imageArticle imageArticle image
Winter Preparation for Fig Trees: Cutting Back and Mulching Fig trees are beloved for their sweet fruit, but they can be sensitive to freezing temperatures, especially in colder climates. Proper winter preparation ensures the tree survives the harsh weather and grows back vigorously in the spring. One effective method involves cutting back the branches and insulating the tree base with mulch. Here's a step-by-step guide:
Indoor Gardening with Purpose: Fresh Ingredients Year-Round Planting in pots indoorsPlanting in pots indoorsPlanting in pots indoorsPlanting in pots indoors
Indoor Gardening with Purpose: Fresh Ingredients Year-Round Imagine walking into your home and being greeted by the vibrant greenery of your very own indoor garden. With aromatic herbs, fresh ingredients, and even small fruiting plants, indoor gardening can turn any space into a productive and inviting haven. Whether you’re looking to save on grocery costs, enjoy a steady supply of organic produce, or simply find joy in gardening throughout the year, growing indoors is a rewarding way to make the most of your space.
House Plants: Benefits, Top Picks, and Care Tips Article imageArticle imageArticle imageArticle image
House Plants: Benefits, Top Picks, and Care Tips House plants aren’t just for looks—they’re living companions that enhance our homes! Whether you're a plant mom or plant dad who wants to bring nature inside, house plants offer health benefits, create calming atmospheres, and add charm to every room. Let’s dive into the many ways house plants can enhance your well-being and explore the best plant options for your lighting conditions.
The Stark Bro's Story of Leadership in Gardening Excellence Rooted in ServiceRooted in ServiceRooted in ServiceRooted in Service
The Stark Bro's Story of Leadership in Gardening Excellence At Stark Bro’s, we’re proud to be veteran-owned and veteran-operated, bringing the values of service and dedication directly into the heart of gardening. With over 200 years of history, we know that the strongest roots grow from a commitment to quality, integrity, and community. Our leadership upholds these principles, guiding every plant we nurture and every customer we serve. Here, we don’t just grow fruit trees; we grow relationships and legacy.
Preparing Your Garden for a Successful Fall and Winter Harvest basket full of applesHarvest basket full of applesHarvest basket full of applesHarvest basket full of apples
Preparing Your Garden for a Successful Fall and Winter As summer comes to an end, it’s time to give your fruit trees and berry plants the care they need to thrive through the colder months. Proper fall maintenance not only protects your plants from winter damage but also lays the foundation for healthy growth come spring. Here’s your fall checklist to help ensure a smooth transition into the next season.
How to Prep a Garlic Bed for Planting Preparing a garlic bedPreparing a garlic bedPreparing a garlic bedPreparing a garlic bed
How to Prep a Garlic Bed for Planting Preparing a garlic bed properly is essential for growing healthy, productive garlic plants. Garlic is usually planted in the fall, as it needs a cold period to establish strong roots before spring growth. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you prepare your garlic bed for planting.
How to Care for Citrus Trees in Containers & Successfully Grow Citrus Indoors citrus treescitrus treescitrus treescitrus trees
How to Care for Citrus Trees in Containers & Successfully Grow Citrus Indoors Imagine filling your home with the vibrant scent of citrus blossoms, while enjoying fresh fruit all year long—even if you live outside the ideal growing zones for citrus! Growing citrus in containers makes this possible, allowing you to bring the beauty and flavor of citrus into any climate. With optimal care, citrus trees can bloom and bear fruit multiple times a year, adding both color, fragrance and flavor to your living space.
When Grapes Are Ready to Harvest: A Guide to Determining Ripeness When are Grapes RipeWhen are Grapes RipeWhen are Grapes RipeWhen are Grapes Ripe
When Grapes Are Ready to Harvest: A Guide to Determining Ripeness Harvesting grapes at the right time is crucial for achieving optimal flavor, sugar content, and overall quality. Grapes can be used for fresh eating, winemaking, or cooking, and each purpose may have slightly different ripeness criteria. Here’s a comprehensive guide on when grapes are ready to be harvested.
Subscribe to Stark Bro's e-newsletters
Get to know your zone! Try the new Stark Bro's Hardiness Zone Finder