During the juvenile stage of growth, plants do not bloom. For annuals, such as marigolds and petunias, the juvenile stage may last for only a few weeks. Trees, however, may not be physiologically mature for 10 or more years. Apple and pear trees planted in the backyard garden may not flower and bear fruit for 4 to 6 years. The actual length of time from planting to flowering varies tremendously.
Differences exist among varieties or cultivars.
Generally, a Jonathan apple tree will bear fruit sooner than a Red Delicious. Lilacs may not bloom for 3 to 5 years after planting. The flower buds of most plants are generally less hardy than the leaf buds. Low winter temperatures may kill the flower buds without damaging the leaf buds. As a result, those peaches that survive in Iowa often fail to produce a crop.