Backyard fruit gardening is gaining attention in Marin County, where the climate supports a wide range of fruit varieties throughout the year. Many residents grow common citrus trees like lemons, but the region’s Mediterranean weather allows for more diverse choices such as kumquats, Kishu tangerines, and blood oranges. Citrus trees can be grown successfully in containers placed in sunny areas with minimal wind exposure.
Winter is also a suitable time to plant strawberries. The ‘Seascape’ variety has proven successful when planted in containers with well-draining soil to prevent root rot. Proper fertilization and removing runners can help increase berry production.
As spring approaches, blooming fruit trees signal the changing season. Local gardeners are encouraged to consider personal preferences, climate suitability, and ease of care when selecting new fruit trees. Dwarf varieties are available for those looking to save space and reduce pruning needs. Resources such as the California Rare Fruit Growers website and the online UCANR PDF “The Backyard Orchard” offer guidance on growing backyard fruits.
Berry season begins in late spring and early summer, with blueberries providing a harvest that can last from April through July. Other native berries like serviceberry and huckleberry ripen later in the season.
The arrival of fall brings additional options including apples, pears, figs, grapes, quinces, pomegranates, and persimmons. Gardeners are advised to select fruit types based on required chill hours for optimal production—apples and pears do well in northern Marin while pomegranates and figs thrive further south. Grapevines can be trained along fences to maximize vertical space; their leaves are edible as well.
Some local gardeners enjoy cultivating less common varieties not typically found in markets—for example ‘Genoa’ or ‘Violette de Bordeaux’ figs—as these must ripen on the tree before harvest. Nurseries will soon offer a wider selection of backyard fruit specimens for planting.
Anne-Marie Walker writes: “Part of the reason I enjoy growing backyard fruit is the novelty aspect. I like tasting a variety not always found in markets. For example, markets abound with ‘Black Mission’ and ‘Brown Turkey’ figs. But where in the market can you find a ‘Genoa’ fig or a ‘Violette de Bordeaux’ fig? Figs ripen only on the tree.”
She adds: “Consider the pleasures of growing fruit in your backyard and delight in the bounty as you harvest ripe fruits.”
